What to Do After an Amtrak Explosion

The aftermath of an Amtrak explosion can be overwhelming and chaotic, leaving passengers and their loved ones with countless questions about what to do next. 

For immediate safety concerns and long-term legal and medical considerations, read the step-by-step guide below. If you require urgent care, call 911 immediately. If you have legal questions, contact Morgan & Morgan for a free case evaluation today.

1. Ensure Immediate Safety

The first and most critical step is to prioritize your safety and the safety of others around you.

• Evacuate the Area: If you’re able, follow the instructions of emergency personnel or train staff to safely evacuate the train or affected area. Avoid smoke-filled areas and be cautious of structural damage.
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain, so be cautious.
• Assist Others if Possible: If it’s safe to do so, help fellow passengers who may be injured or disoriented.
• Call 911: If emergency services are not already on the scene, call 911 to report the explosion and request assistance.

2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Explosions can cause a wide range of injuries, from visible trauma to internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Even if you don’t feel injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

• On-Site Treatment: Allow paramedics to evaluate you on-site.
• Visit a Hospital: Get a thorough medical examination to rule out internal injuries, burns, or the effects of inhaling smoke or toxic fumes.
• Document Your Injuries: Keep detailed records of your medical visits, diagnoses, and treatments. These records will be vital if you pursue legal action.

3. Contact Your Loved Ones

Let your family and friends know you’re safe. If you’re unable to make calls, ask someone nearby to assist you.

• Emergency Hotlines: Amtrak and emergency services often set up hotlines for families to check on the status of passengers.
• Social Media: In mass casualty events, social media can also be a tool to update loved ones on your safety.

4. Cooperate With Authorities

After an explosion, law enforcement and investigative agencies will conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause and prevent future incidents.

• Provide a Statement: Share any observations or information you have about the incident, but stick to the facts.
• Avoid Speculation: Refrain from speculating about the cause or making assumptions, as this can complicate investigations.
• Obtain a Copy of the Report: Request a copy of the incident report from law enforcement or Amtrak.

5. Document the Scene

If you’re in a position to do so safely, gather evidence that could be crucial for any future claims or lawsuits.

• Take Photos and Videos: Capture images of the scene, including damages, injuries, and any hazards.
• Keep Personal Belongings: Do not discard any items damaged in the explosion, as they may serve as evidence.
• Collect Witness Information: If possible, get the contact details of other passengers or witnesses who may corroborate your account.

6. Understand Your Legal Rights

Explosions on Amtrak trains can result in complex legal cases involving multiple parties. Understanding your rights is crucial to seeking justice and compensation.

• Contact an Attorney: Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process.
• Determine Liability: Potential liable parties could include Amtrak, equipment manufacturers, maintenance contractors, or even third parties involved in sabotage or terrorism.
• File a Claim: Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible to file a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

7. Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your health and disability insurance providers about the incident. If you have travel insurance, notify them as well.

• Provide Necessary Documentation: Share details about the explosion, your injuries, and any medical expenses.
• Understand Coverage: Review your policies to understand what costs your insurance may cover, such as medical bills or lost income.

8. Monitor Your Health

The physical and emotional toll of an explosion can have long-term effects. It’s important to prioritize your health in the weeks and months following the incident.

• Follow Up with Doctors: Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery.
• Address Emotional Trauma: Consider seeking counseling or therapy to cope with any post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a journal of your symptoms and recovery process.

9. Stay Informed About Investigations

Authorities and Amtrak will likely provide updates as investigations progress.

• Review Findings: Stay informed about the official findings, which may impact your legal case.
• Advocate for Change: If systemic issues are identified, consider joining efforts to push for better safety regulations and accountability.

10. Know What Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims of an Amtrak explosion may be entitled to compensation for a variety of losses. These may include:

• Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional trauma caused by the explosion.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for personal items damaged or destroyed in the incident.
• Wrongful Death: If you lost a loved one in the explosion, you may be eligible for compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

11. File a Lawsuit if Necessary

If Amtrak or another party’s negligence contributed to the explosion, pursuing a lawsuit may be necessary to secure full compensation.

• Statute of Limitations: Be aware of the deadlines for filing a lawsuit in your state.
• Class Action vs. Individual Claims: Depending on the circumstances, you may join a class-action lawsuit or file an individual claim.
• Work with Experts: Your attorney may work with accident reconstruction experts, engineers, or medical professionals to build a strong case.

12. Prepare for a Long Process

Legal and medical recovery processes can take time. Be patient and proactive throughout this journey.

• Stay Organized: Keep all documents related to the explosion, including medical records, receipts, and correspondence with authorities.
• Communicate With Your Attorney: Maintain regular contact with your legal team to stay updated on your case.
• Focus on Recovery: Prioritize your physical and emotional well-being as you navigate the process.

13. Advocate for Safer Rail Travel

While nothing can undo the trauma of an explosion, you can play a role in preventing future tragedies.

• Share Your Story: Consider sharing your experience to raise awareness about the risks and encourage safety improvements.
• Support Legislation: Advocate for stronger safety measures, such as improved train maintenance protocols, better emergency preparedness, and enhanced security measures.
• Hold Companies Accountable: Work with organizations and legal teams to ensure that companies like Amtrak prioritize passenger safety.

14. Contact Morgan & Morgan

Experiencing an Amtrak explosion is a life-altering event that can leave victims feeling lost and uncertain about the future. However, by following these steps, you can regain control, protect your rights, and begin the journey toward recovery. 

From ensuring your immediate safety to seeking legal assistance and advocating for change, every step you take contributes to your physical, emotional, and financial well-being.

At Morgan & Morgan, we understand the challenges victims face in the wake of such tragedies. Our experienced attorneys are here to fight for you and ensure that justice is served. 

If you or a loved one has been affected by an Amtrak explosion, contact us today for a free case evaluation. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to help.