New York FELA Railroad Injury Lawyers

If you were injured while working on the railroad, a New York FELA railroad injury lawyer at Hach & Rose, LLP can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Railroad work is one of the most physically demanding and dangerous jobs in the country. When something goes wrong—whether it’s a derailment, equipment failure, or unsafe working conditions—the consequences can be life-changing.

If you were injured while working for a railroad in New York, you may have the right to pursue compensation under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA).

At Hach & Rose, LLP, our New York FELA railroad injury lawyers represent injured rail workers across the state. We understand the risks you face, the tactics railroad companies use to limit liability, and what it takes to build a strong case. Call (212) 779-0057 to discuss your situation with our dedicated team.

Why Choose Hach & Rose for Your FELA Railroad Injury Case

FELA claims are not typical injury cases. They require a deep understanding of railroad operations, federal law, and the strategies railroad companies use to defend against claims. Choosing the right law firm can have a direct impact on the strength of your case and the compensation you recover.

At Hach & Rose, LLP, we bring decades of focused experience representing injured railroad workers under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act. Our team understands the unique challenges of these cases and how to overcome them.

When you work with our dedicated legal team, you benefit from:

• In-depth knowledge of railroad industry operations, safety protocols, and common hazards
• Proven ability to build evidence-driven claims that demonstrate how the railroad’s actions contributed to your injury
• Experience anticipating and countering the defense tactics railroad companies and their insurers use
• Access to industry experts, including accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals
• Trial-ready preparation on every case, because that preparation often leads to stronger outcomes
• A commitment to recovering compensation that reflects the full impact of your injury, not just your immediate costs

At Hach & Rose, our goal is to help injured railroad workers hold negligent employers accountable and secure the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

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What Is the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA)?

The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) is a federal law designed specifically to protect railroad workers who are injured on the job. Unlike traditional workers’ compensation systems, FELA allows injured employees to file lawsuits directly against their employers when negligence is a factor in their injuries.

To bring a successful claim, we must show that the railroad’s negligence contributed to your injury—even if it was only a small factor.

Employer negligence could include:

• Failure to maintain safe working conditions
• Defective equipment or tools
• Lack of proper training or supervision
• Violations of safety regulations

FELA claims allow injured workers to pursue full compensation, not just limited benefits.

Why FELA Claims Are Different From Workers’ Compensation

Railroad workers are not covered by standard workers’ compensation laws. Instead, FELA provides broader rights—but also requires proving employer negligence to recover for your losses. Learn more about why your railroad injury is not a workers’ comp case and what that means for your claim.

This means:

• You must demonstrate that the railroad contributed to your injury
• The railroad may try to shift blame to another party or even you to reduce liability
• Cases often require detailed investigation and expert testimony

The benefit is that FELA allows recovery for damages that workers’ compensation does not, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Full lost wages (past and future)
• Loss of earning capacity

Because of these differences, having an experienced FELA claims attorney is critical.

Common Types of Railroad Injuries We Handle

Railroad injuries can range from moderate to catastrophic, often requiring long-term medical care or preventing a worker from returning to their job.

We represent clients with injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Severe burns and electrical injuries
• Crush injuries from heavy machinery
• Repetitive stress injuries (carpal tunnel, tendonitis)
• Hearing loss from prolonged noise exposure
• Fall-related injuries in yards, platforms, or railcars

These injuries can affect every aspect of your life, from your ability to work to your long-term health and financial future.

Common Causes of Railroad Accidents

Railroad companies have a legal duty to provide a reasonably safe working environment. When they fail to meet that obligation—whether through poor maintenance, inadequate training, or unsafe work practices—serious and preventable injuries can occur.

Equipment and Mechanical Failures

Railroad workers rely on heavy machinery, tools, and railcars to do their jobs safely. When equipment is defective or not properly maintained, the risk of injury increases significantly. This can include malfunctioning brakes, faulty couplers, defective hand tools, or poorly maintained locomotives and railcars. Workers may suffer crush injuries, amputations, or severe trauma when equipment fails unexpectedly during operations.

Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents

Rail yards, platforms, and maintenance areas are often filled with uneven terrain, loose ballast, grease, oil, and debris. Poor lighting, broken walkways, and unsafe footing conditions can easily lead to falls. Injuries may occur while climbing on or off railcars, walking along tracks, or working in confined or elevated areas, and often result in back injuries, fractures, or head trauma.

Derailments and Collisions

Train derailments and collisions are among the most dangerous railroad incidents we handle. These accidents can occur due to track defects, signaling failures, excessive speed, or operator error. Workers on or near the train may be thrown from equipment, struck by debris, or trapped in wreckage, leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

Electrical Hazards

Railroad employees frequently work near high-voltage electrical systems, including overhead catenary lines, third rails, and power equipment. Inadequate safety protocols, lack of proper insulation, or failure to de-energize equipment can result in severe burns, electrical shocks, or electrocution.

Repetitive Trauma and Overexertion

Many railroad jobs involve repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and physically demanding tasks performed over long shifts. Over time, this can lead to chronic injuries such as back strain, joint damage, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Even though these injuries develop gradually, they may still qualify for FELA compensation.

Unsafe Work Practices and Lack of Training

Railroad companies are responsible for properly training workers and enforcing safe procedures. When employees are rushed, understaffed, or not given adequate safety instruction, the likelihood of accidents increases. Miscommunication during switching operations, improper use of equipment, and failure to follow safety protocols can all contribute to serious incidents.

Exposure to Toxic Substances

Railroad workers may be exposed to hazardous materials, including diesel exhaust, asbestos, silica dust, solvents, and chemical cargo. Long-term exposure can lead to respiratory illnesses, cancer, and other serious health conditions. Employers have a duty to minimize these risks and provide appropriate protective equipment.

Identifying the exact cause of an accident—and whether the railroad’s negligence played a role—is a critical part of building a strong FELA claim. At Hach & Rose, we conduct thorough investigations to uncover safety violations, maintenance failures, and other factors that may have contributed to your injury.

Who Is Eligible to File a FELA Claim?

FELA applies to railroad workers engaged in interstate commerce, including most rail employees. You may be eligible if you work in one of these roles:

• Engineer or conductor
• Machinist or mechanic
• Electrician or signal operator
• Yard worker or laborer
• Track inspector or switch operator
• Maintenance or cleaning staff

If your job involves railroad operations, you may qualify for protection under the act. If you are unsure whether you qualify, call us for a free case review and we can explain your rights.

Railroad Safety Laws and Employer Responsibilities

Railroad companies are subject to strict federal safety regulations enforced by agencies such as the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Railroads must also comply with the Federal Railroad Safety Act, which sets critical standards for worker protection.

These regulations require railroads to:

• Maintain safe equipment and working conditions
• Conduct regular inspections
• Provide proper training and protective equipment
• Address known hazards promptly

When companies fail to meet these federal standards, they may be held liable under FELA for your resulting injuries and losses.

How Hach & Rose Builds Strong Railroad Injury Cases

FELA claims require a detailed and strategic approach. At Hach & Rose, we focus on building strong cases from the ground up.

Our process includes:

• Conducting thorough investigations
• Reviewing accident reports and safety records
• Interviewing witnesses
• Working with industry experts
• Documenting injuries and long-term impact

We use this evidence to demonstrate negligence and pursue full compensation for our clients. We also bring decades of experience in railroad labor law and FELA litigation, including representation of multiple railroad unions and deep knowledge of industry practices and safety standards. This background allows us to understand not just the legal issues, but the realities of work-related injuries on the railroad.

Understanding the FELA Legal Process

FELA claims follow a structured legal process. When you partner with Hach & Rose, our process typically includes:

1. Free Consultation

We evaluate your case and explain your options at no cost to you.

2. Investigation

We gather evidence to establish negligence and liability.

3. Filing the Claim

Our FELA attorney files the necessary legal documents on your behalf.

4. Negotiation

We work to reach a fair settlement with the railroad, if possible.

5. Litigation

If needed, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

6. Resolution

Our mission is to recover the compensation you need to support your recovery and rebuild your future.

Each case is different, but our goal is always the same: to help you secure the best possible outcome.

FAQs About FELA Claims

Speak With a New York FELA Railroad Injury Lawyer Today

If you were injured while working on the railroad, you may have a limited time to take legal action. At Hach & Rose, LLP, we understand the challenges you are facing, and we are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Your consultation is free and confidential, and there is no obligation to take action.

Call (212) 779-0057 or contact us online today to speak with a New York FELA railroad injury lawyer. We are here to help you protect your rights and rebuild your future.