Railroad businesses are highly regulated. These are often referred to as “common carriers” and are controlled and mandated by acts of Congress.
All railroads are responsible for the safety of all people, and the law requires them to take “reasonable and prudent care” for operating trains, maintaining crossing surfaces, and warning pedestrians. They owe passengers a higher duty of care to remain safe and accident-free.
While the law mandates these things, train accidents still occur.
At Bernard Law Group, we understand the devastating impact a train accident can have on your life. As your Bellevue accident lawyer, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
When faced with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma, you need experienced legal guidance. We’re committed to helping our clients secure the compensation they deserve after these life-altering events.
Understanding Train Accidents in Bellevue
Like other cities in Washington, Bellevue is part of a growing public transportation network that includes freight trains and commuter rail services. Due to the sheer size and force of locomotives, accidents involving trains can lead to catastrophic injuries.
Whether it’s an Amtrak derailment, a collision with a vehicle at a railroad crossing, or an incident involving a pedestrian, our experience as a train accident attorney in Bellevue enables us to navigate these complex cases effectively.
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Common Causes of Train Accidents
Train accidents can occur for various reasons, including:
- Mechanical failure or improper maintenance
- Human error by engineers or conductors
- Faulty signals or malfunctioning equipment
- Collisions at railroad crossings
- Pedestrian accidents involving unsafe crossings
When these accidents occur, the result is often severe injuries or even fatalities. Victims may suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or wrongful death. As your Bellevue accident attorney, we are prepared to hold negligent parties accountable.
Washington State Laws Governing Train Accidents
The legal framework around train accidents involves both federal and state laws. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) sets nationwide safety standards for railway operations, while local regulations sometimes dictate liability. In Washington, train operators are responsible for maintaining safety protocols to avoid accidents and injuries.
For example, under Washington’s comparative negligence rule (RCW 4.22.005), even if a victim shares some fault in an accident, they can still recover compensation. However, their percentage of fault may reduce their award. We leverage these laws to ensure that our clients get the compensation they are entitled to, regardless of the complexity of their case.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Determining liability in a train accident can be challenging. Potentially responsible parties may include:
- The train company or operator
- Railroad workers
- The municipality or transit authority responsible for the tracks or signals
- The manufacturer of faulty train components
We take the time to thoroughly investigate your case, consulting with experts and reviewing maintenance records, safety protocols, and witness statements. With the help of a top-rated personal injury attorney in Bellevue, you can rest assured that we’ll leave no stone unturned in identifying those responsible.
Compensation Available to Train Accident Victims
Our priority is ensuring that our clients receive full and fair compensation for their losses. Depending on the specifics of your case, damages may include:
- Medical expenses (both current and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Funeral expenses in wrongful death cases
As your injury lawyer in Bellevue, Washington, we recognize that every case is unique. We work closely with you to understand the full extent of your damages so we can fight for the maximum compensation available under the law.
What to Do After a Train Accident in Bellevue
If you or a loved one has been involved in a train accident, the steps you take in the immediate aftermath are critical:
- Seek Medical Attention – Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, getting checked by a healthcare professional is essential, as some injuries can worsen over time.
- Document Everything—Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. If possible, collect witness contact information.
- Report the Accident – Ensure the accident is reported to the appropriate authorities. Request a copy of the police report or incident report.
- Contact a Bellevue Train Accident Lawyer—Contact us as soon as possible. The sooner we begin working on your case, the better we can preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.
By following these steps and consulting with a personal injury lawyer near me, you improve your chances of building a strong case.
Why Choose Bernard Law Group for Your Train Accident Case?
Train accident cases require an attorney with experience, knowledge of the law, and access to expert resources. As your Bellevue personal injury lawyer, we bring decades of experience successfully handling personal injury claims across Washington. We have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients, and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Our approach is client-focused and results-driven. We believe in open communication and keep you informed at every stage of your case. We work to relieve the legal burden so you can focus on recovery.
How We Help You Maximize Your Compensation
As your train accident attorney in Bellevue, we put time and effort into fully understanding your case. While each case is unique, they all follow a similar process, which includes:
- Investigating the accident – We gather all relevant evidence, including maintenance logs, operator records, and safety reports.
- Negotiating with insurers – We handle all communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement offer.
- Litigating in court if necessary – If the responsible parties refuse to offer a just settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
Our commitment to excellence has earned us a reputation as a top-rated personal injury attorney in Bellevue. We understand that no two cases are identical, and we tailor our legal strategies to fit each client’s needs.
No Fees Unless We Win
Everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—there are no upfront fees, and you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
This ensures that our interests align with yours, and you can pursue justice without financial stress.
Need Justice? Reach Out Today for Legal Counsel
Contact Our Bellevue Train Accident Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in a train accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. As your trusted Bellevue train accident lawyer, we are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and develop a plan to move forward.
At Bernard Law Group, we take pride in standing by our clients during their most challenging times. Let us use our experience and dedication to serve you.