Murrieta Train Accident Attorneys

If you were injured in a train accident, you may have grounds for a negligence claim against the train owner, operator, or another party. However, unfortunately, recovering fair compensation in a train accident case can be challenging: insurance companies tend to scrutinize claims, looking for reasons to deny them. As such, even a minor mistake or lack of attention to detail could derail your case. The Murrieta train accident attorneys at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and other damages. Your initial consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose by speaking with a member of our team. Call us today at 1-800-GO-HARRIS to set up a case assessment. If you cannot travel, we will come to you.

Common Causes of Train Accidents in Murrieta

Throughout the years, our train accident attorneys have discovered that some of the most common causes of collisions involve some combination of the following:

• Distracted driving
• Impaired driving
• Failure to keep a lookout or to check blind spots
• Defective parts
• Mechanical failures

Who May Be Liable?

One of the most common questions clients ask us is who may be responsible for paying their damages. Before we can determine who is liable, we must find out what caused the accident. For instance, if the train conductor fell asleep while on duty, his or her employer may be liable. On the other hand, if another motorist drove onto the tracks and caused the wreck, then that driver may be liable.

Steps to Take after A Train Accident

No matter who is liable for your injuries, it is critical to take steps to preserve your claim. In addition to capturing plenty of photos of your injuries, you should:

• Gather your medical records.
• Give your lawyer copies of any email or text message correspondence with other parties.
• Collect any eyewitnesses’ contact information.
• Take regular notes about your injuries, treatment, prognosis, and the effect of the accident on your life.
• Collect all your receipts, bills, and other tangible evidence of your accident-related expenses.

Pursuing Compensation for Your Injuries

The expenses stemming from a train wreck can get out of control fast. Through a legal claim, you can seek to recover many of these expenses, known as “economic damages.” Examples of economic damages include reimbursement for:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disability
• Permanent physical limitations or ailments

If the potentially liable party acted with malice, fraud, or oppression, exemplary damages (also known as “punitive” damages) may also be awarded. While economic damages are meant to compensate victims, punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct in the future. Be sure to ask your attorney whether it is worth raising a claim for punitive damages in your case.

Discuss Your Case with a Train Accident Attorney

At Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, our Murrieta train accident attorneys will handle each step of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with an insurance carrier on your behalf. Call our 24-hour phone line at 1-800-GO-HARRIS or send us a message to schedule a complimentary case review today.