Different Ways You Could Get Injured as a Railroad Worker

Railroad work is recognized as one of the riskiest professions in the United States. This is where the role of railroad accident lawyers becomes crucial, as they specialize in representing workers who have been injured in the line of duty. Those employed in this industry should be well-informed about the potential hazards to proactively prevent accidents. In fact, studies have revealed that the number of railroad workers injured on the job is much higher than the national average for all occupations. Here are some of the prevalent causes of injuries among railroad workers.

Getting Hit by a Train

Workers who are struck by trains typically suffer fatal or devastating injuries. To avoid getting hit by a train, always stay aware of your surroundings and never walk or stand on tracks when a train is approaching. If you must cross tracks, use a designated crossing area and look both ways before proceeding.

Falling Objects

Objects can fall from overhead structures, off of trains, or from other workers’ hands. To avoid being struck by a falling object, always wear a hard hat when working near overhead structures and be aware of what other workers are doing around you.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are responsible for many injuries in the railroad industry. Wet tracks, loose gravel, and cluttered work areas can all contribute to slips and falls. Wear appropriate footwear with good traction to avoid slipping or falling, and keep your work area clean and free of debris. Pay attention to your surroundings and take your time when walking on slippery or uneven surfaces.

Electric Shock

Workers can be electrocuted if they come into contact with high-voltage power lines or equipment. To avoid electric shock, always stay away from high-voltage power lines and equipment. If you must work near these hazards, ensure you have received proper training and use the proper safety equipment.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

Repetitive motion injuries are common among railroad workers who perform the same task repeatedly throughout their shifts. These injuries can be caused by tasks such as operating a machine control or lifting heavy objects. Take frequent breaks throughout your shift to stretch and move around to avoid repetitive motion injuries. Also, be sure to use proper techniques when performing tasks that require repetitive motions.

Falling From Heights

Railroad workers often work at heights, such as when inspecting bridges or repairing signal lights. Falls from heights are one of the leading causes of injury and death among railroad workers.

Chemical Exposures

Railroad workers are often exposed to harmful chemicals, such as diesel fuel, lubricants, and cleaning solvents. These chemicals can cause serious health problems if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin.

Getting Caught Between Equipment

Many railroad workers are killed or seriously injured each year after getting caught between two pieces of equipment, such as a locomotive and a flatcar. This type of accident is especially common among yard workers moving cars around tight spaces.

Strains and Sprains

While not as life-threatening as some of the other hazards on this list, strains and sprains are still quite common among railroad workers. These injuries often occur when workers lift heavy objects or perform repetitive motions over long periods.

Why it Makes Sense to Call an Injury Lawyer After Railroad Injury?

Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a railroad accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced injury lawyer can review your case and determine what type of compensation you may be eligible for.

Fight Against Injustice

If you file a claim with the railroad company on your own, they may try to deny your claim or lowball you on the amount of compensation you’re entitled to. An experienced injury lawyer will know how to deal with the insurance companies and get you the full amount of compensation you deserve.

A Legal Expert

Railroad accident cases can be complex, and you must have an experienced advocate on your side who knows how to navigate the legal system and get you the best possible outcome. An experienced injury lawyer will fight for your rights and ensure that you’re treated fairly throughout the process.

Limited Time

Acting quickly is important if you’ve been injured in a railroad accident, as there may be a statute of limitations on filing a claim. An experienced injury lawyer can determine if there’s a deadline for filing your claim and make sure that your case is filed promptly.

Final Word

Working as a railroad employee is extremely dangerous and comes with many risks. If you’re thinking about becoming a railroad worker or if you’re already employed in the industry, it’s important to be aware of these risks so that you can take proper precautions to avoid them. Stay safe out there!