Attorney Jason Holladay

Common Injuries Railroad Workers

On Behalf of | Aug 20, 2022 | Personal Injury, Work Injuries

Common Injuries to Railroad Workers

Common Injuries to Railroad Workers

Railroads have contributed immensely to American transport needs and social and economic welfare. Unfortunately, railroad construction and maintenance is a dangerous job that exposes its workers to multiple common Injuries to Railroad Workers,

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 3150 railroad employees suffered injuries in 2020. Severe injuries complicate the lives of victims. Many are left to cope with long-term health complications, rising medical bills, loss of income, death of loved ones, and pain and suffering.

If you’ve been injured in the line of duty, a workplace accident attorney can help pursue the rightful compensation.

Here are the common workplace injuries that railroad workers suffer. To discuss your situation, reach out to a law firm that handles railroad injury claims.

What are the Common Injuries to Railroad Workers?

Head Injuries

Railroad workers can suffer head injuries from falls, falling objects, or accidental collisions with tools. Typically, when a head injury occurs, it may damage the scalp, skull, or brain. Significant trauma to the brain results in a traumatic brain injury.

The effects of head injuries include permanent disability, impairment, or death.

Below are the different types of injuries:

  • Skull Fracture: After a nasty fall, broken pieces of the skull can tear the brain matter
  • Contusion: It’s a bruise to the brain matter
  • Concussion: It occurs when the brain is shaken and bounces against the skull.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Fractures and broken bones are another common injury among railroad workers. A slippery surface can result in a slip leading to a broken bone or fracture. Other sources of this injury include heavy lifting, power tool malfunction, poor safety standards, or defective heavy equipment.

The common types of fractures and broken bones include compound fractures, oblique bone fractures, and stable bone fractures.

Back and Neck Injuries

Railroad work is a physically demanding job that involves heavy lifting and repetitive movements. Excessive force creates trauma to back and neck muscles resulting in injuries.

A neck or back injury patient experiences localized pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, numbness, tingling, or paralysis. Unfortunately, severe neck or back injuries result in life-long complications like disability.

Electrocution

Some rails run on heavy electric current exposing workers to the risk of electrocution. Remember, direct contact with an electric current can be fatal. Electric shock may result in minor injuries or extensive damage to the heart, muscles, or brain.

Here’s how electrocution results in injuries:

  • Subsequent fall injuries
  • Muscle, nerve, or tissue destruction
  • Thermal burns after electric contact
  • Cardiac arrest

Burns

Railroad workers constantly interact with hot metal surfaces, engines, and furnaces which expose them to burns. Additional burn hazards include explosions, electrical malfunctions, engine fires, and chemical solvents.

Generally, a burn injury occurs when skin or any other body tissue is exposed to hot liquids, solids, or flames. Severe burn injuries may result in loss of limbs, loss of mobility, recurrent infections, low blood volume, and muscle wasting.

Speak to a Workplace Accident Attorney For a Free Consultation

Ultimately, a railroad injury can impede the enjoyment of life or the ability to generate income. You, therefore, need an experienced lawyer like Holladay Law Firm dedicated to representing personal injury victims. Contact us online or call us at 1-800-900-3319 to learn more.