--- description: Washington, DC personal injury attorneys at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. fight for train accident victims. Call today for a FREE case review. title: Amtrak Accident Lawyer Washington DC | Train Accident Attorneys --- Amtrak Accident Lawyer Washington DC | Train Accident Attorneys # Amtrak Accidents Last Updated: November 18, 2025 Reading Time: 5 minutes Trusted Content Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 7 months ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Train Accident Lawyer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/train-accidents/) » Amtrak Accidents What's On This Page [Case Results](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/case-results/) $35.6 Million Medical Malpractice $18.8 Million Car Crash $17.1 Million Medical Malpractice $15 Million Neck & Spine Injury $14.25 Million Class Action $6 Million Brain Injury [View All Practice Areas](https://chaikinandsherman.com/practice-areas/) [Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) I would never worry again if they are on the case. Tilwanda Dofat Personal Injury They held my hand through the entire process. Meraf Mitchell They paved the way for a brighter future. Sheree Whitby I’m greeted with a hug every time I come. Sheba Halliburton Personal Injury They are always was available for any of my concerns. Teresa Morring Your office has taken care of us every step. Shyama Personal Injury Contact Us Today! "*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Name* Last Email** Phone*Are you a new client?*Are you a new client? *Yes, I'm a potential new client.No, I'm a current existing client.I'm neitherCase TypeCase TypeMotor Vehicle AccidentSlip & FallAssaultMedical MalpracticeAbuseWork InjuryOtherWere You at Fault?Were You At Fault?NoYesUnknownWhere Did The Incident Occur?Where Did The Incident Occur?Washington, D.C.VirginiaMarylandOtherDid The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?Did The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?YesNoShare Brief Description of the Incident* The firm’s attorneys discuss their approach to personal injury claims involving negligence — including the capacity to fund complex litigation and hire the experts required for cases against government entities. The firm has represented victims from nearly every major DC-area train disaster over the past decade, including claims against WMATA, Amtrak, and CSX. Video Transcript **Speakers:** Allan Siegel, Ira Sherman, Stephen Ollar, Joseph Cammarata **Allan Siegel (00:02):** We are a personal injury law firm. That is the only type of work that this law firm does. If you were injured as a result of somebody else’s negligence, then that’s a case that we would handle. So what does that include? Car crash cases. It includes bicycle crash cases, scooter cases, pedestrian accident cases, truck crash cases. It includes bus cases, all of those things, but it also includes situations where you might be hurt on somebody else’s premises. For example, maybe you were hurt at a business, maybe you slipped and fell because they didn’t maintain their floor in a safe condition. **Ira Sherman (00:40):** The insurance company knows that we are aggressive, we are creative. We have the funds to fund a case and hire experts, and as a result, they distinguish us in a category of law firms that they need to know and do know that we can take the case from day one all the way through trial successfully. **Stephen Ollar (01:05):** Insurance is an important factor, not just the insurance coverage on the vehicle that struck you, but also if you have additional insurance coverage that may compensate you if you have very serious injuries. The degree of your injury is important. **Joseph Cammarata (01:21):** Our approach is victim oriented in the sense that we are concerned for the wellbeing of our clients. We do everything to better their lot in life. A person that’s injured in a crash or bike accidents or pedestrian accidents, their life typically gets turned upside down. And we try to right that balance. We make sure that they’re getting the medical treatment that they need, that they’re following through, and that we understand the medicine, we understand just what the person is going through so we can articulate that. We could present that effectively. **Allan Siegel (01:57):** If you’ve been injured as a result of somebody else’s negligence or as a result of somebody else’s intentional act, that’s a case that we would handle and that’s a case that you should call us to consult with us on. # Amtrak Train Accident Attorney [Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) have decades of experience representing victims and families who have been harmed in serious train accidents – including incidents involving Amtrak. Train accidents frequently result in serious and even fatal injuries. Our Amtrak train accident lawyers are committed to helping passengers, motorists, families, and others who’ve suffered from these incidents as they repair their lives and fight for justice. If you have been harmed in an accident involving an Amtrak train – or if you have lost a loved one in a fatal Amtrak crash – our award-winning personal injury attorneys are prepared to evaluate your case during a FREE consultation, explain your rights, and discuss how we can fight for the compensation you deserve. ## Common Causes of Amtrak Train Accidents Many different factors can contribute to an Amtrak train accident. Some of the most common include: - Operator error - Mechanical problems - Design flaws - Poor track maintenance - Inadequate security procedures If you were injured in a train accident, it is important to understand what caused the accident. This can help you determine who is liable for your injuries. An experienced Washington DC Amtrak accident lawyer at our law firm can help you investigate the cause of your accident and hold the responsible parties accountable. ## Types of Train Accidents There are many different types of train accidents. Some of the most common include: - Train derailments – This is one of the most common train accidents. It can be caused by several factors, including mechanical problems, operator error, and poor track maintenance. - Collisions – This type of accident can occur when a train collides with another train or an object on the tracks. It can also happen if a train hits a vehicle or pedestrian at a crossing. - Railroad crossing Accidents – These accidents can occur when a train hits a vehicle or pedestrian at a crossing. They can also happen if a train derailment causes the train to cross into oncoming traffic. - Stationary train accidents – These accidents can occur when passengers are injured while boarding or disembarking a train. They can also occur if a train is stationary and is hit by another train or an object on the tracks. - Coupling or decoupling accidents – These accidents can occur when two trains are being coupled or decoupled. They can also occur if a train car is accidentally detached from the rest of the train. If you were injured in an Amtrak accident, it is important to speak with an experienced train accident attorney as soon as possible. ### Your Rights After a Washington DC Train Accident Victims injured due to others’ negligence have the right to pursue financial compensation for the damages they suffer. Train accidents have the potential to cause serious and widespread harm. These damages can be extensive and may include: - Past and future medical expenses - Lost work wages and future earning potential - Pain and suffering - Emotional injuries to loved ones who died (victims’ families) Although cases are always unique, common factors can cause train accidents, such as derailment, equipment malfunction, or operator error. When it can be shown that the cause of an accident could or should have been prevented, victims and families deserve the right to be compensated for damages they would not otherwise have suffered. ### Extensive Train Accident Experience Our train accident lawyers have substantial experience handling train accident cases and have represented victims from nearly every major train incident in the DC metro area over the past decade. Below are examples of train accident cases we have handled: - Our firm filed a[ wrongful death](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wrongful-death/) claim on behalf of the family of one of the victims killed in a June 22, 2009 crash involving two Red Line Metro trains. The incident occurred near the Fort Totten Metro station. This crash was the deadliest train accident in Washington Metro’s history. Partners Joseph Cammarata and Allan M. Siegel served on the multi-party litigation steering committee in the accident’s aftermath. They were key contributors to advancing the case toward trial. - https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/iStock-912151500-scaled-1.jpg represented 8 individuals involved in the yellow line Metro incident when the train filled with smoke as it left the L’Enfant Plaza station. Partner Allan M. Siegel served on the multi-party steering committee and was an active participant in getting these cases resolved. - https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/iStock-912151500-scaled-1.jpg secured a successful resolution for a victim who suffered serious injuries in a 2004 Metro train crash that occurred in the Woodley Park Metro station. The incident involved a high-speed collision between two trains that resulted in the striking train removing the aluminum casing of the other train. The crash ultimately resulted in a federal recommendation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to improve the crashworthiness of railcars. Despite these recommendations, the improvements were never made by Metro. The failure to make these improvements was a significant issue in the June 22, 2009 crash, as the Plaintiffs alleged in that case that many of the injuries and deaths could have been prevented had the recommended improvements been made. - Our train accident attorneys represented an individual who suffered serious injuries in a 2002 incident involving an Amtrak derailment in Kensington, Maryland. We successfully secured compensation for both our client’s physical and emotional injuries. - We successfully resolved a case for a victim injured in 1996 when a MARC train in Silver Spring, Maryland, derailed. It was later determined that the crew’s negligence caused the incident, which led to new railcar design rules and operating regulations. ## The Dangers of Riding the Amtrak Train On May 12, 2015, Amtrak’s Northeast Regional Train 188 derailed and overturned in the Port Richmond neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, while headed to New York from Washington, D.C. The train was carrying more than 240 people at the time of the incident. Seven passengers were killed in the crash, and over 200 were taken to local hospitals to be evaluated or treated. Our personal injury and wrongful death lawyers have handled similar derailment cases. They have the knowledge and expertise to litigate these cases successfully and obtain our clients’ maximum compensation they are entitled to under the law. You can learn more about this incident on [our blog](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/). ## Is There a Time Limit For Filing a Train Accident Claim? Yes, there is a time limit for filing a train accident claim. The statute of limitations can vary in an Amtrak train accident, depending on the state where the incident happened. Maryland and Washington, D.C. generally have a three-year statute of limitations for injury claims, while Virginia generally has a two-year statute for injury claims. However, there are exceptions to these general rules and differences for different kinds of claims (e.g., a wrongful death claim in Washington, DC., must be filed within two years). Accordingly, it is important that you talk to an experienced Washington, DC train accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure attorneys have the necessary time to build a case and file it within the statute of limitations. If you do not file a claim within the statute of limitations, you may be barred from recovering compensation for your injuries. ## Contact a DC Train Accident Lawyer Today For a Free Consultation Given the serious nature of train accidents – and because corporations like Amtrak have massive legal teams and resources to defend themselves – working with experienced and proven lawyers can make the difference in your case. By filing a civil personal injury or wrongful death claim with the help of our legal team, you can place yourself in a position to secure justice and full compensation. Contact our firm for a FREE consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your rights. We are available to help victims and families throughout the DC Metro area and beyond. Our call center is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, giving you access to help anytime you need it. ## Get free advice about the compensation you deserve. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. Speak to a Specialist Visit Us in Person 1232 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036 The train and transit accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. — including attorneys who served on the multi-party litigation steering committees in the 2009 Fort Totten Red Line crash and the 2015 L’Enfant Plaza smoke incident — represent injured passengers across the region, including [Washington, D.C. Metro accident cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/train-accidents/washington-dc-metro-accident-lawyer/), [Virginia train injury claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/train-accidents/virginia-train-accident-lawyers/), [Amtrak collisions](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/train-accidents/amtrak-accidents/), and [derailment matters](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/train-accidents/train-derailment/) across the Northeast Corridor. Top 10 Mistakes Made After an Accident Review these common auto accident mistakes to protect your rights. READ OUR E-BOOK Meet Our Team Learn More About Us Ira Sherman Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New York With over four decades of courtroom experience, **Ira Sherman** is a powerhouse trial lawyer who has won justice for countless victims of serious injury, discrimination, and medical malpractice. Known for his relentless advocacy, compassion, and proven results, he’s the attorney clients trust when everything is on the line. Ira Sherman's Bio Joseph Cammarata Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia A dual board-certified civil trial attorney, **Joseph Cammarata** is nationally recognized for his fierce advocacy, landmark legal victories, and relentless pursuit of justice for victims of serious injury, wrongful death, sexual assault, and civil rights violations. With wins against powerful opponents—including a historic U.S. Supreme Court case securing equal access to justice—he’s the attorney clients trust when they need skill, strength, and results that matter. Joe Cammarata's Bio Allan M. Siegel​ Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Allan M. Siegel** is a board-certified trial attorney and partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., known for securing justice in serious personal injury, brain injury, and wrongful death cases. Recognized as one of Washington’s *Top 100 Super Lawyers®* and a *Best Lawyer®* in America, he combines strategic precision, courtroom skill, and relentless advocacy to win full and fair compensation for his clients. Allan Siegel's Bio Stephen Ollar Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Stephen Ollar** is an award-winning trial attorney and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to holding negligent individuals and corporations accountable. Recognized as a *Super Lawyers Rising Star* from 2020–2025, he’s known for his tenacity, precision, and unwavering pursuit of justice in personal injury, auto accident, and medical malpractice cases. Stephen Ollar's Bio ## Related Articles Read More Blog Articles Virginia Train Accident Lawyers Washington DC Metro Accident Lawyer Train Derailments Amtrak Accidents Train Accident Lawyer [](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2026/04/metro-center-collision-wmata-silver-line-ntsb-investigation/) Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata& Siegel. P.C. Metro Center Collision Under Federal Investigation: A Known Pattern, Open Questions By Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C.Legally Reviewed by Allan M. Siegel, PartnerPublished April 24, Read More » 04/24/2026 Amtrak’s Sneaky Arbitration Clause In 2015, an Amtrak train traveling from Washington to New York derailed in Philadelphia, killing 8 people Read More » 11/18/2019 National Transportation Safety Board Releases Annual List of Most Wanted Safety Improvements In many of our blog posts, we call attention to the National Transportation Safety Board, Read More » 02/26/2019 Amtrak Train Carrying Republican Lawmakers to Annual Conference Collides with Truck, One Victim Killed On Wednesday January 31, an Amtrak train chartered to transport Republican lawmakers to an annual Read More » 01/31/2018