Subway systems are the lifeblood of major cities, providing a fast and efficient mode of transportation for millions of people each day. However, the high volume of passengers, aging infrastructure, and complex operational challenges can sometimes lead to train accidents with serious consequences.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a subway train, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Napoli Shkolnik is here to help.

Why Choose Napoli Shkolnik?

At Napoli Shkolnik, we have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in subway accident cases. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve.

• Experienced Attorneys: Our legal team has decades of experience handling personal injury cases, including those involving subway accidents. We have the knowledge and resources to build a strong subway accident claim on your behalf.
• Client-Centered Approach: We put our clients first. From the moment you contact us, we will work closely with you to understand your needs, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the legal process.
• No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This ensures that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

Common Causes of Subway Accidents

Subway accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:

• Derailments: Faulty tracks, mechanical failures, or operator error can lead to train derailments, causing significant injuries to passengers.
• Platform Accidents: Slippery surfaces, crowded conditions, and malfunctioning equipment can result in slips, trips, and falls on subway platforms.
• Train Collisions: Accidents can occur when two trains collide due to signal failures, human error, or other operational issues.
• Doors Closing on Passengers: Defective doors or operator negligence can cause doors to close on passengers, leading to injuries.
• Assaults and Crimes: Inadequate security measures can make passengers vulnerable to assaults or other criminal activities in subway stations or on trains. The New York City subway in particular has a history of crime, though reduction efforts are underway.

Understanding Your Rights

If you’ve been injured in a subway accident, it’s important to understand your legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work during recovery.
• Pain and Suffering: Financial compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Disability and Rehabilitation Costs: If your injuries result in a long-term disability, you may be entitled to compensation for rehabilitation and any necessary modifications to your living environment.

How Napoli Shkolnik Can Help

Our nationwide and NYC train accident attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with experts to build a compelling case. We will negotiate with the responsible parties or their insurance companies to seek a fair settlement.

If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial to fight for your rights.

Steps to Take After a Subway Accident

Taking the right steps after a subway accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you think your injuries are minor. Thousands of people are hurt on platforms and in subway cars every year and the injuries may be more severe than first assumed.
2. Report the Accident: Notify the subway operator or station personnel about the accident. Make sure an official report is filed.
3. Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions that contributed to the accident. Collect contact information from witnesses.
4. Contact an Attorney: Speak with a qualified Nationwide or New York subway accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Do You Charge for an Initial Consultation?

At Napoli Shkolnik, we believe that everyone should have access to high-quality legal advice, especially when it comes to matters as serious as a subway accident. That’s why we charge nothing for an initial consultation. During this free consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your case with one of our experienced attorneys.

We’ll listen to the details of your accident, answer any questions you have, and provide you with an honest assessment of your case. There’s no obligation, and the consultation is completely confidential.

This is your chance to get the guidance you need without worrying about upfront costs.

2. Do You Handle Cases on a Contingency Basis?

Yes, we do. At Napoli Shkolnik, we understand that dealing with the aftermath of a subway accident can be financially challenging. Most of our clients prefer to have us represent them on a contingency basis. This means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover monetary damages on your behalf. Whether through a jury verdict, settlement, or other means, our fees are only a percentage of the compensation we secure for you.

If we are unable to recover any compensation, you won’t owe us any attorney fees. The exact percentage of our contingency fee will be agreed upon between the firm and the client at the start of our representation, and it will be clearly outlined in a written contingency agreement.

This approach ensures that our interests are aligned with yours, and we are fully committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

3. How Much Can You Get for a Subway Accident?

The amount of compensation you can receive for a subway accident varies widely based on the specifics of your case. Factors such as the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the impact on your quality of life all play a role in determining the value of your claim.

Compensation may cover:

• Medical Expenses: Including hospital bills, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and future medical costs.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you’ve lost due to your inability to work, as well as any future lost earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Financial restitution for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured.
• Permanent Disability: If your injuries result in a long-term disability, you may be entitled to compensation for your reduced quality of life and ongoing care needs.

At Napoli Shkolnik, we meticulously evaluate every aspect of your case to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible. During your free consultation, we can provide a more personalized estimate of what your case may be worth. 

4. Do You Handle “Rail Surfing/Subway Surfing” and Other Similar Cases? 

Rail surfing or subway surfing is a dangerous and illegal act of riding on the exterior of a subway car or venturing on exposed rail tracks. This extremely risky behavior has resulted in countless cases of severe injury, electrocution, and death. 

Popular social media videos of this activity have influenced others to take part in subway surfing, leading to a rise in accidents and injuries. Napoli Shkolnik works with clients on this subject on a case-by-case basis, depending upon a variety of incident factors. If you have been involved in a rail or subway surfing event, we recommend reaching out to our firm about possible representation to discuss case details.

5. What makes Napoli Shkolnik Stand Out From Other Firms?

When you choose Napoli Shkolnik, you’re not just hiring a law firm—you’re partnering with a team of seasoned legal professionals who are dedicated to your success. Here’s what sets us apart from other firms:

• Proven Track Record: Our firm has a long history of successfully representing clients in complex subway accident cases. We’ve secured substantial settlements and verdicts, demonstrating our ability to deliver results.
• Specialized Expertise: We have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations governing subway systems and public transportation. This specialized knowledge allows us to effectively navigate the complexities of these cases.
• Personalized Attention: We treat each case with the individual attention it deserves. Our attorneys work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances and tailor our legal strategies to meet your specific needs.
• Resources and Support: With a robust team of legal experts, investigators, and support staff, we have the resources necessary to thoroughly investigate your case and build a strong argument in your favor.
• Client-Centered Approach: At Napoli Shkolnik, you are our priority. We keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring that you understand the process and feel confident in the decisions being made. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you while providing compassionate and responsive legal support.

Choosing Napoli Shkolnik means choosing a firm that is fully committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

6. Where Are You Located?

With offices nationwide, we can represent victims in every city. Whether you're facing the New York City Transit Authority, Chicago Transit Authority, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, or some other subway authority, we are the train accident attorneys ready to assist. 

Award-winning Personal Injury Law Firm

START YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION

Napoli Shkolnik is a national litigation firm that has put its 150+ years of collective legal experience towards recovering over $20 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. 

With offices in Manhattan and Long Island, we are ready to put that knowledge to work for YOU. 

Recent Results for Clients include: