Myths and Facts about railroad injury cases

Injuries to railroad employees are all too common. In fact, working for the railroads can be one of the most dangerous jobs around. And unfortunately, the railroad company management is not going to always give you the best advice on what to do if you are injured while working for the railroad. And some attorneys may not give you the best advice either.

If you are injured while working for the railroad, consider consulting with a railroad injury lawyer.

In the meantime, here are some helpful tips on some common issues that come up when a railroad injury occurs:

1. You are required to hire a "union lawyer" - FALSE

Some injured workers believe they are required to hire a "union lawyer" if they suffer a railroad injury case. Nothing could be farther from the truth, even though some attorneys may try to convince you otherwise.

Of course, you are free to hire a union lawyer if you want. But you are also free to hire a railroad injury lawyer who is completely independent of the railroad and the railroad union.

2. You must report your accident immediately - TRUE

Sometimes, your supervisor or management may try to convince you not to file an accident report immediately. THIS IS A TERRIBLE IDEA. It only hurts your case. If you are hurt on the job, you need to report your accident immediately. No exceptions, unless you are just physically unable to report the accident for some reason.

3. You are required to see railroad or company doctors - FALSE

This is a myth. You are free to see your own doctors, doctors of your choosing, who are independent of the railroad and railroad union. Most good railroad accident attorneys can help coordinate an appointment for you with an independent doctor.

4. You are required to talk with the railroad claims agent - FALSE

You are not required to talk with the railroad claims agent or give any sort of written or recorded statement to the railroad claims agent. Remember, the agent is working and being paid by the railroad. The claims agent may try to convince you otherwise, but remember, the claims agent is not on your side.

5. Make sure to make a note of all witnesses and their contact information - TRUE

Even if seems absolutely clear who was at fault, you still need to make a note of who witnessed your accident and how to get in contact with them. You would be amazed at how memories change over time and if the railroad puts pressure on potential witnesses.

Railroad injury case?

Mr. Beckcom is board-certified and handles injury cases against the railroads on behalf of injured railroad workers and their families. Mr. Beckcom accepts only a limited number of cases so he can devote his full time and personal attention to each client and each case.

Mr. Beckcom believes that injured railroad workers deserve the same level of legal help that the huge railroad companies receive. Mr. Beckcom's goal is to "level the playing field" for the injured worker and obtain the best possible settlement in the shortest amount of time.

To schedule an appointment to speak with Mr. Beckcom directly, call toll free at 877.724.7800 or use the contact form on this website.