Illinois Train Accident Injury Attorneys

Lawyers for Victims of Train Derailments, Collisions, and Malfunctions

Chicago’s extensive railroad network is a critical part of the city’s infrastructure, facilitating the movement of both freight and passengers. However, with the high volume of rail traffic in the Chicago area, the risk of train accidents is significant. These accidents often result in severe injuries, emotional trauma, and devastating financial losses for victims and their families.

At our Illinois personal injury firm, we understand the profound impact railway accidents can have on your life. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping victims navigate the legal system, secure the compensation they deserve, and hold negligent parties accountable.

Understanding Train Accidents in the Chicago Area

As one of the busiest rail hubs in the United States, Chicago sees a significant number of railroad accidents each year. According to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the Chicago metropolitan area consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for railroad accidents. In 2023 alone, there were approximately 115 reported railroad accidents, including train derailments, vehicle collisions at grade crossings, and pedestrian accidents on or near tracks.

These incidents are often catastrophic, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Victims may face long-term medical care, rehabilitation, loss of income, and emotional distress. Our firm is here to help you recover the compensation you need to rebuild your life after such a traumatic event.

Chicago Train Stations

Chicago is home to several major train stations, which form the backbone of Chicago’s rail system, ensuring efficient and convenient travel across the city, the suburbs, and beyond. Here’s a brief overview of the stations serving Chicago:

1. Union Station

• Location: West Loop Gate neighborhood
• Trains: Amtrak and Metra
• Overview: Union Station is the primary rail hub in Chicago, serving as a terminal for Amtrak’s long-distance routes, including the California Zephyr and the Empire Builder, as well as Metra commuter trains on the Milwaukee District, North Central Service, and Heritage Corridor lines. The station is renowned for its grand architecture, particularly the Great Hall, and plays a central role in Chicago’s transportation network.

2. Ogilvie Transportation Center

• Location: West Loop area
• Trains: Metra
• Overview: This station primarily serves Metra trains on the Union Pacific lines, including the Union Pacific North, Union Pacific Northwest, and Union Pacific West lines. Ogilvie Transportation Center is a key point for commuters traveling from the northern and western suburbs of Chicago into the city.

3. Millennium Station

• Location: Downtown, near Millennium Park
• Trains: Metra and South Shore Line
• Overview: Millennium Station is an underground facility that serves Metra’s Electric District trains and the South Shore Line, which connects Chicago to Northwest Indiana. This station is particularly popular with commuters traveling from the southern suburbs.

4. LaSalle Street Station

• Location: South Loop
• Trains: Metra
• Overview: LaSalle Street Station primarily serves Metra’s Rock Island District trains. It is a smaller station compared to Union and Ogilvie but remains a crucial point for commuters traveling from the southwest suburbs of Chicago.

5. Chicago Station (Red Line)

• Location: North Side, Near North Side
• Trains: Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Red Line
• Overview: Not to be confused with the major rail terminals, Chicago Station on the Red Line is part of the CTA’s “L” system. It serves passengers traveling along one of the busiest lines, connecting the North and South sides of the city.

Types of Railroad Accidents We Handle

Our firm has experience handling a range of railroad accidents, including:

• Train-Vehicle Collisions at Grade Crossings: Grade crossings, where roads intersect with railroad tracks, are frequent sites of accidents. In 2023, over 40 train-vehicle collisions occurred in the Chicago area. These incidents are often caused by driver inattention, malfunctioning crossing gates, or inadequate warning systems.
• Train Derailments: Although less common than grade crossing accidents, train derailments pose significant risks, especially in densely populated areas. In 2023, approximately 15 derailments occurred in the Chicago area, some of which led to hazardous material spills and extensive property damage.
• Pedestrian Accidents: Pedestrian accidents on or near railroad tracks are alarmingly common, with nearly 30 incidents reported in 2023. These accidents often result in fatalities due to the high speed and massive weight of trains, making it nearly impossible for them to stop in time.

High-Profile Railroad Accident Cases in Illinois

Some of the most notable railroad accidents that have occurred in Illinois include:

• Rachel Barton Pine Case (1995): One of the most widely publicized railroad accidents in Chicago involved Rachel Barton Pine, a renowned violinist. In January 1995, Barton was severely injured when her violin case became caught in the doors of a Metra train at the Winnetka station. As the train began to move, she was dragged under it, resulting in life-threatening injuries. The case led to a landmark $29.6 million verdict in her favor and prompted significant changes in train door safety protocols.
• Fox River Grove Crash (1995): In one of the most tragic accidents in Chicago’s history, a school bus carrying students was struck by a Metra commuter train at a grade crossing in Fox River Grove. The collision resulted in the deaths of seven students and injuries to more than 20 others. The case led to important changes in the management of grade crossings, particularly the timing of traffic signals in relation to railroad crossing signals.
• 2015 Metra Accident in Hometown: In March 2015, a Metra train collided with a vehicle at a grade crossing in Hometown, a suburb of Chicago. The accident occurred during the evening rush hour when the driver attempted to bypass the crossing gates. Tragically, the vehicle was struck by the train, resulting in the deaths of two cousins and the injuries of four others. This incident highlighted the critical need for public awareness and improved safety measures at grade crossings.
• 1946 Naperville Train Disaster: In April 1946, a train rammed into another train that was stopped on the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad in Illinois. The stopped train was checking its running gear when it was struck by a train traveling 80 miles-per-hour. As a result of the accident, 45 people died and 125 people were injured.
• 2022 Clarendon Hills Accident: In May 2022, a Metra train collided with a box truck that had stalled on the tracks in Clarendon Hills. As a result, a 72-year-old woman was killed after being ejected from the train.

These cases serve as stark reminders of the dangers associated with railroad operations in the Chicago area. While our firm was not involved in these specific cases, we have handled similar cases and understand the profound impact such incidents can have on victims and their families. Our team is fully equipped to tackle the complex legal challenges that arise in railroad accident cases, fighting to secure the justice and compensation our clients deserve.

Why Choose Our Firm?

When it comes to railroad accidents, our firm stands out for several reasons:

• Comprehensive Experience: We have a proven track record of successfully handling complex railroad accident cases. Our attorneys understand the specific laws and regulations that govern the rail industry, and we know how to build a strong case to secure maximum compensation for our clients.
• Thorough Investigation: We conduct comprehensive investigations to gather all the necessary evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. This meticulous approach ensures that we can establish liability and demonstrate the full extent of your damages.
• Aggressive Advocacy: Insurance companies and rail operators often try to minimize their liability in railroad accident cases. We are committed to fighting aggressively on your behalf, whether through negotiation or litigation, to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Compassionate Support: We understand that railroad accidents can be life-altering, not just for the victims but for their families as well. Our attorneys provide compassionate, personalized support throughout the legal process, keeping you informed and empowered every step of the way.

Seeking Compensation for Railroad Accident Victims

Victims of railroad accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Covering current and future medical bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income if your injuries prevent you from working, as well as future lost earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar conduct in the future.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a railroad accident in the Chicago area, it’s crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Our train accident attorneys are ready to help you navigate the complexities of your case, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve justice and recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact Attorney John J. Malm

John J. Malm & Associates is an experienced personal injury law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. You may be entitled to a substantial settlement if you have been injured. Call 630-527-4177 in Naperville, or 630-524-2323 in St. Charles, and speak with Attorney John J. Malm and his team.