Railroad lawyers are not only experienced in personal injury law and filing negligence claims, but are experienced with the Federal Railroad Administration regulations. The Federal Railroad Administration regulations include regulations regarding accident and/or incident reporting, control of alcohol and drug use, the use of electronically controlled pneumatic brake systems, safety standards, crashworthiness of the locomotives, hazardous materials (civil and criminal penalties), hours of service and other regulations.

If a train crashes because these regulations were not followed, the negligent behavior could be attributed to the accident and injuries and/or wrongful death. Should the court find that negligent behavior was the cause of the train accident, the injured or the loved one of one who died wrongfully may be entitled to compensation—for medical bills and punitive damages. Punitive damages are extra compensation awarded in a settlement or a judgment because the defendant was negligent in its behavior.