Railroad Crossing Accidents
Railroad Crossing Accident Lawyer Serving Clients Nationwide
Railroad crossing accidents are much more common than most people realize. According to the Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety Analysis, 2005 saw more than 3,000 collisions between trains and motor vehicles in the United States. And there were many other types of accidents, including trains colliding with pedestrians and passengers suffering from the train company’s negligence. Railroad crossings without any active warning (lights/gates) are dangerous – yet roughly two-thirds of all crossings are protected by nothing but a passive warning sign.
Many railroad crossing accidents result in deaths or very serious injuries, such as brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. And often, the accidents are due to negligence on the part of the train companies or employees. If you have suffered in a railroad crossing accident, an attorney at Pottroff & Karlin can meet with you for a free initial consultation. We will charge no attorney fees until you get compensation.
What Is Involved in Railroad Crossing Accident Litigation?
Railroads are responsible for passenger safety and can be held liable for injuries caused by elements in their control. In a railroad crossing, a railroad company and its train crew must use reasonable care to avoid injury to anyone traveling on highways crossed by the train tracks. This issue becomes complicated when one considers that it takes about one third of a mile to stop a train moving at an average speed. Hiring a railroad crossing lawyer who is familiar with the laws governing train accidents is crucial.
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“In addition to his substantive contributions to railroad grade crossing safety, I have personally observed his untiring efforts and contributions to improving the integrity of the legal system.”- Elizabeth Hardy
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“His knowledge of the rail industry and his willingness to share his knowledge with other people who do railroad work is beyond belief to me.”- Mike Bee
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“Through his efforts, he has single-handedly given hope to victims who are injured or killed as a result of dangerous railroad crossings”- Donald Vasos
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“Nathan is a warrior fighting the railroads.”- Jonathon (Jon) C. Clark
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“Nathan Karlin has my strongest endorsement in the field of railroad crossing cases and personal injury law.”- Joseph M. Miller
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“In each case, Nathan always possessed an incredible knowledge of the law and the facts, possessed a great talent for aggressive – strategic legal planning and trial tactics while, at the same time, displaying great skill as an effective negotiator.”- Scott McCluen
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“Nathan’s knowledge and experience in handling and trying cases against these litigation savvy railroad companies gives me the confidence to know that the clients and cases I refer to him are getting the best of the best.”- James Perrin
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“The staff is helpful, professional, and responsive.”- Tracy D.
A Law Firm with a Purpose
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Purpose-Driven Representation
We handle each case with the belief that the legal system should be a tool for positive change. Our work often leads to broader safety improvements, not just individual outcomes.
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Focused on Serious Injury Cases
Our practice centers on railroad crossing accidents and other catastrophic injuries. These complex cases demand deep experience and a commitment to long-term impact.
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Personalized, Accessible Legal Support
We maintain a welcoming environment where clients are heard, supported, and informed. Our team approach ensures you’re never left wondering where your case stands.
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Free Consultations, Contingency-Based FeesWe offer free consultations and only get paid if we recover compensation for you. It’s one way we make justice more accessible for those who need it most.
Leading Authorities in Train Accident Litigation
Pottroff & Karlin is one of the top railroad crossing accident firms in the country. We built our reputation by winning extremely challenging wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases involving train accidents. In one case, our lead attorney, Robert L. Pottroff, represented a train passenger injured because of the negligence of the train company. The verdict included $5.1 million in compensatory damages and $25 million in punitive damages, for a total of more than $30,000,000.00.
Mr. Pottroff is known nationally and internationally as an authority and leading practitioner in the fields of railroad, highway, and grade crossing as well as an outspoken advocate for the rights of victims and as a proponent of railroad safety. He lectures frequently on a variety of topics including:
- Railroad crossing litigation
- Investigation and discovery
- Cross examination
- Forensics evidence
- The use of innovative technologies for litigation
His skill and reputation has brought him countless awards, including the honor of being named president of the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association.