New York has the unique distinction of having one of the largest transportation systems in the country. Each day, over 4 million people ride mass transit. This calculates out to 1.7 billion trips per year. With all these rides, a train accident is not that uncommon. In fact, it is estimated that every 120 minutes someone is hit by a train. The injuries that result from a train accident range from mild, to severe, or even deadly. If you have been hurt in a train accident, contact a New York City train accident lawyer from Stephen Bilkis and Associates for guidance.
It is a long-recognized fact that the railroad is one of the most dangerous industries in the country. While trains and their operation have vastly improved, in other ways this has made them more dangerous. They are massive vehicles weighing thousands of pounds. Their operation has become very complicated.
According to the Federal Railroad Administration, common causes of train accidents includes:
If you have been injured in a train accident you probably have a lot of questions. You may be watching your medical bills pile up, and are unable to work. Contact Stephen Bilkis and Associates for help and a free consultation. Our lawyers are dedicated to getting our clients the compensation they deserve. We have a track record that is built on decades of experience and success. Our past 200 settlements and verdicts have brought at least one million dollars ($1,000,000) each.
The Value of a Train Accident CaseWhen determining the value of a train accident case, there are various things to consider. The circumstances surrounding the accident, fault, the severity and type of injuries you have, and the insurance involved all help determine the case value.
Medical BillsIf you have been injured, you have likely incurred medical expenses. Emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and medications all are very expensive. You may be in the process of recovery and still have a long road ahead. Perhaps you require physical therapy or more surgery. All these things are included as part of your damages.
Pain and SufferingThe law recognizes that if it were not for the negligence of another, you would not have been injured. As such, you deserve to be compensated for the pain and suffering your injury has caused. For this type of damages, your New York City train accident lawyer will use a formula to determine a fair dollar amount.
Loss of IncomeYou have probably been out of work for some time. Or, perhaps you will be unable to return to work at all. Your loss of income is reimbursable, and will consider your past loss of income as well as any future losses. Cost of living increases and inflation are also figured in to this number.
InsuranceInsurance plays an important role in your case. Every insurance company is different in how they deal with a claim. The policy limits involved are important. If you are covered up to five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000), receiving an award higher than that will be difficult. Your New York City injury attorneys experience in train accident law will prove very useful in seeking out additional avenues of compensation.
The following cases are examples of recent court verdicts in the New York area:
New York City, New York - $10,346,656 Verdict: Plaintiff falls into the gap between the train and platform.
New York City, New York - $5,000,000 Verdict: Plaintiff struck and run over.
Bronx County, New York – $5,700,000 Verdict: Plaintiff falls on slippery floor in public premises.
Suffering from a train accident is traumatic and stressful. It is important however to take prompt action to ensure your rights are protected. Speak to one of our experienced train accident lawyers in any of our New York City locations. We will discuss the value of a train accident case, and help you create an action plan moving forward. We have offices in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, as well as Nassau County, Suffolk County and Westchester County. Call them today for a free consultation and discuss your legal options at 800.696.9529.