Gainesville Train Accident Lawyer
Free Case Evaluation
Get answers in minutes. No obligation.
By submitting this form, you agree to receive communications from Mesin & Co. Your information is confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege.
Gainesville Train and Railroad Accident Lawyer
Train accidents can cause catastrophic injuries in an instant. Whether at a railroad crossing, a commuter stop, or on a worksite, the size and speed of trains mean that even minor mistakes can have devastating consequences.
Although Gainesville does not have a major commuter rail system, trains run through Alachua County and nearby regions. Residents encounter rail lines operated by CSX, Amtrak, and local
freight companies, and serious accidents occur every year in Florida at crossings and rail yards.
At Mesin & Co., our Gainesville train accident lawyers represent passengers, drivers, pedestrians, and railroad workers who have been injured in train-related incidents. We fight to uncover what went wrong and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Steps to Take After a Train Accident in Gainesville
- Seek medical treatment immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated at UF Health/Shands or another nearby facility.
- Report the accident to authorities and ensure an official report is made.
- Collect evidence: Take photos, gather witness names, and keep any documents you receive.
- Do not speak with railroad company investigators or insurance adjusters without a lawyer
- Contact a Gainesville train accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Compensation for Train Accident Victims
- Medical bills (including future treatment and rehabilitation)
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and PTSD
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
Common Types of Train Accidents
Railroad crossing accidents
Collisions between trains and cars, trucks, or pedestrians due to defective signals, poor visibility, or operator negligence
Derailments
Freight or passenger trains leaving the tracks, often causing mass injuries
Pedestrian and bystander accidents
People struck by trains when walking near the tracks
Onboard passenger injuries
Injuries caused by sudden stops, collisions, or equipment failures while on a train
Railroad worker injuries
Cases under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) for railway employees hurt on the job
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Liability in a train accident may fall on:
- The railroad company (CSX, Amtrak, etc.)
- Train operators or conductors
- Maintenance contractors responsible for tracks and signals
- Equipment manufacturers
- Government entities responsible for roadway and crossing design
FELA Claims for Injured Railroad Workers
If you are a railroad employee injured on the job, your case falls under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), not Florida workers’ compensation. FELA allows injured railroad workers to recover compensation when the railroad company’s negligence contributed to their injury.
We represent CSX and Amtrak employees injured while working in or around Alachua County.
Causes of Train Accidents in Florida
Many train accidents can be traced to preventable errors, including:
- Inattentive or impaired train operators
- Malfunctioning signals or crossing arms
- Poorly maintained tracks and equipment
- Excessive speed
- Obstructed crossings and inadequate warning signage
- Failure to follow federal safety regulations
Injuries Resulting from Train Accidents
The force of a train accident often causes life-changing injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Amputations and crush injuries
- Multiple fractures
- Severe burns and lacerations
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Fatalities
Why Hire a Local Gainesville Train Accident Lawyer?
- Knowledge of local crossings, rail routes, and accident history
- Experience with Florida and federal transportation law
- Resources to conduct on-site investigations and preserve evidence
Serving Gainesville and Nearby Communities
- Gainesville
- Alachua
- Waldo
- High Springs
- Micanopy
- Nearby towns along CSX and Amtrak rail lines
Frequently Asked Questions.
Get answers to common questions about your legal case.
Can I sue if the train accident was partly my fault?
Yes. Under Florida’s comparative negligence law, you may still recover damages, but your compensation may be reduced based on your share of fault.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Train accident claims in Florida generally have a two-year statute of limitations, but federal rules may apply for FELA cases. Act quickly to preserve evidence.
Will my case go to trial?
Many cases are resolved through negotiation or settlement, but we prepare every train accident case as if it will go to trial to ensure the best possible outcome.
Call a Gainesville Train Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a train or railroad crossing accident in Gainesville or
Alachua County, contact Mesin & Co. today for a free consultation. We work on a
contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win.
