New York Train Accident Lawyer

Have You or a Loved One Been Injured or Died in a Train Accident or a Subway Accident in New York?

The New York train accident lawyers at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Herhehorn, Steigman and Mackauf possess an in-depth knowledge of transportation law and the expertise needed to build robust cases for individuals who have sustained injuries or for the loved ones of those who have lost their lives in subway or train accidents. Contact our Manhattan law firm at (212)-943-1090 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

New York City Train Accident Lawyers
$20 million settlement for a tourist who fell on the tracks

In a recent case settled in 2023 our team of dedicated attorneys secured a remarkable  $20 million for a young woman who tragically endured severe lower body injuries after being struck by two trains. Our client, a 23-year-old tourist, found herself in a harrowing situation when she fell onto the train tracks and was subsequently struck by not one, but two consecutive trains. The devastating consequences of this unfortunate event necessitated a below-the-knee amputation for one leg and a partial amputation for the other.

Recent Court Victory: Metro-North Valhalla Train Crash Case

Our Metro-North accident lawyers obtained a significant verdict in the Valhalla Metro-North train crash

Our Metro-North accident lawyers obtained a significant verdict in the Valhalla Metro-North train crash

Ben Rubinowitz and Richard Steigman were the lead trial attorneys who secured a significant verdict in the Metro-North Valhalla train crash case, the deadliest train accident in Metro-North's history . A Westchester County jury found Metro-North primarily liable for the tragic accident at the Commerce Street Crossing, which resulted in six deaths and numerous injuries. The jury attributed 71% of the responsibility to Metro-North due to the train engineer's failure to slow down and the defective design of the third rail system. A subsequent trial is expected to determine the amount of damages that should be awarded to the victims.

Additional Notable Settlements:
  • $3 million for a client who was injured by falling debris after a New Jersey Transit Train crashed into the station.
  • $3 million for the family of a nurse who died from the injuries she sustained in a train accident.
Our NY train accident attorneys handle:

  • Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Accidents
  • Amtrak Accidents
  • Long Island Railroad(LIRR) Accidents
  • Metro North Accidents
  • PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) train accidents
  • Train involved in accident
  • Subway accidents
  • New Jersey Rail and Port Authority Accidents
  • New Jersey Transit (NJT) Accidents
  • Passenger train accidents
  • Commuter train accidents
  • Freight train accidents

What Is a Train Accident Lawyer, and Why Do I Need One?

A train accident lawyer specializes in handling legal cases related to train accidents, whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another affected party. They can help you navigate complex legal processes, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for injuries, damages, or losses sustained in the accident.

What Causes Train Accidents?
Defective third rail can be seen in the interior of the Metro-North car that burned during the Valhalla Crash

In a trial lead by our Metro-North accident attorneys, a jury found that human error and defective third rail caused the train accident

Train accidents can be caused by various factors, including derailments, collisions, mechanical failures, signal malfunctions, human errors, track defects, and more. Determining the cause of the accident is crucial in building a strong legal case.

What Steps Should I Take After a Train Accident?

After a train accident, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention if needed. Report the incident to the appropriate authorities and document the scene if possible. Collect contact information from witnesses and take photos. Then, consult a train accident lawyer to discuss your options and potential legal actions.

Who Can File a Train Accident Lawsuit?

Anyone who has been injured or suffered losses due to a train accident, including passengers, pedestrians, motorists, and property owners, may have grounds for filing a train accident lawsuit.

Can I Sue a Train Operator for My Injuries?
Aerial view of the Metro-North Valhalla train crash

In the Valhala Metro North train crash trial lead by our attorneys, the jury found that the train operator failed to slow the train down

Subway and train operators, and their parent companies have a professional obligation to ensure that passengers are transported safely to their destination. If an operator negligently fails to deliver passengers unharmed, injures pedestrians, or injures passenger vehicle occupants, the employee and his or her company may be found negligent. To successfully litigate these types of cases, an attorney must have full command of the transportation law as found in Title 49 of the United States Code and be familiar with the various regulatory agencies for these types of accidents. For example, accidents to railroad workers are covered by FELA (Federal Employers Liability Act) and The Federal Transit Administration covers subways and mass transit.

How Can a Train Accident Lawyer Help Me?

A train accident lawyer can provide expert legal advice, investigate the accident's cause, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, calculate damages, and represent you in court if necessary. They aim to secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses.

How Do Attorneys Investigate Train Accidents in New York?
Subway Accident Attorney

One of our subway accident attorneys investigating a case on location

In order to ensure important eyewitnesses are located, conductors interviewed, and physical evidence preserved, our train accident attorneys initiate an independent investigation process as soon as possible when seeking damages for a subway or train accident. The MTA, NJT and other agencies employ internal investigators to collect evidence and conduct an investigation into the cause of subway and train accidents.

What Type of Experts Are Hired in a Train Accident Lawsuit?

In addition to train accident expert witnesses, we also retain if necessary expert accountants and financial analysts because many subway and train accident cases have their own set of associated losses including lost wages, the cost of care and many other monetary costs. In order to accurately assess what these costs will be for the remainder of a victim’s life, we use financial professionals to derive fair resolutions for injury victims.

What Compensation Can I Seek in a Train Accident Case?

Compensation can include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in some cases, punitive damages. The specific compensation you can seek depends on the circumstances of your case.

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Train Accident Lawsuit in NY State?

Yes, there is a time limit for filing a train accident lawsuit in New York State. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from train accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means that you have three years from the date of the train accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries and losses.

However, it's important to note that there can be exceptions and variations to this rule, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. For example, if the train accident involved a government entity, such as a government-operated train, there may be different notice requirements and time limits that apply.

To ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines and requirements, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a qualified train accident lawyer in New York as soon as possible after the accident. They can provide you with accurate and up-to-date information about the statute of limitations and any other legal considerations specific to your case.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Train Accident Lawyer?

Our train accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to seek legal representation with top NYC train accident attorneys without upfront costs.

Can I Negotiate With the Insurance Company on My Own?

While it's possible to negotiate with the insurance company on your own, having an experienced train accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, but a lawyer can advocate for your rights and help you avoid settling for less than you deserve.

What Resources Are Available to Survivors or Families of Rail Passengers Accidents?
How Do I Choose the Right Train Accident Lawyer for My Case?

When selecting a train accident lawyer, look for experience, expertise in personal injury and train accident cases, a track record of successful settlements and verdicts, good communication skills, and a willingness to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Every train accident case is unique, so it's essential to consult with a qualified train accident lawyer to assess your specific situation and receive personalized legal advice. If you have been injured in a subway or train accident, please contact the NY train accident attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf at (212) 943-1090 to discuss your case. The consultation is free.

Disclaimer: Please be advised that the results achieved in any given case depend upon the exact facts and circumstances of that case. Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf cannot guarantee a specific result in any legal matter. Any testimonial or case result listed on this site is based on an actual legal case and represents the results achieved in that particular case, and does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction of the outcome of any other legal matter.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
"Very compassionate, very efficient and top rate! If you want a team of good lawyers that will not only work hard to win your case but knows how to listen and feel for you as a victim of medical malpractice, this firm is your only choice." [Extract] D.F.
★★★★★
"Everyone I communicated with at this firm made me feel like I was part of their family. My needs, feelings, and concerns were carefully considered and given the needed attention. My counselors were available whenever I needed them and became my personal friends. They came highly recommended and lived up to their reputation. I would recommend them to any of my friends without hesitation. This firm gives attorneys a "good name". Clients matter here. They made me feel like I mattered as a person, that I was valued, and not just a possible source of income for the firm. They earned their fees, and you will find that they will also earn your trust." N.W.
★★★★★
"My husband was in a coma with very little chances to survive, due to a car accident. The compassion and professionalism that they showed myself and my family during such a difficult time combined with an incredible willingness to get the best results for us have shown us that we had made the absolute best choice. They not only fought extremely hard for what proved to be a very difficult case, but they also emotionally helped us through this incredible ordeal and have been a caring advocate for our family and our case. They got us the best results we could have expected given the circumstances and didn't give up when things got more challenging." [Extract] V.P.
★★★★★
"August 2020, my mother was in a horrific car accident. I contacted Gair Gair Conason to handle my mother's case. Everyone at the firm who helped us with the case did such a fantastic job with being so efficient. We could not have been more satisfied with the services we received." [Extract] K.C.