Bremseth Law Office PC Minnesota FELA Railroad Accident Lawyers | Personal Injury 2026-06-15T15:52:37Z https://www.bremseth.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1204040/2022/09/site-icon-75x75.png On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[5 ways how railroad accidents can lead to a traumatic brain injury]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254697 2026-06-15T15:52:37Z 2026-06-15T15:52:37Z Railroaders are a tough breed. You endure brutal weather, long hours and backbreaking labor every shift. But no amount of grit can protect your brain from the violent forces of a railroad accident. Hence, here are five ways a workplace incident can lead to a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and what you need to know to stay informed.

Railroad work carries serious brain injury risks

To understand the danger, start with what a traumatic brain injury actually is. A TBI is a type of head injury that happens when a sudden impact or jolt knocks your brain out of its normal state. The severity can range from a brief concussion to a life-changing injury that causes long-term damage. For railroad workers in Minnetonka, these injuries pose a very real danger on every shift. Thus, knowing how TBIs happen is the first step toward protecting yourself and your crew.

Five ways railroad accidents lead to a TBI

Since TBIs carry such serious consequences, you need to know exactly what puts you at risk on the job. Here are five common railroad accident scenarios that can result in a traumatic brain injury:
  • Falls and slips: A fall from a ladder, elevated walkway or locomotive platform can slam your head into hard steel, concrete or track ballast, causing skull fractures and serious brain contusions.
  • Equipment and debris impacts: Unexpected railcar movement during coupling or switching operations can knock you down and loose cargo or heavy tools can send blunt force straight to your skull.
  • Whiplash and inertial forces: Sudden slack action, derailments or high-speed collisions can jerk your head violently, causing your brain to ricochet inside your skull and tear nerve fibers without any visible signs of trauma.
  • Explosions and shockwaves: Tank car accidents and electrical failures can trigger powerful blasts, sending shockwaves through your brain tissue and rupturing your eardrums.
  • Prolonged vibration exposure: Repeated exposure to heavy, vibrating machinery causes micro-traumas over time that can lead to long-term neurological damage affecting your memory, focus and daily function.
Each of these incidents can happen in an instant and the effects can last a lifetime. That is why knowing what comes next after a railroad injury is just as important as understanding the risks themselves.

Protect your health and your future

A TBI is not just a workplace injury. It can affect every part of your life, from your ability to work to the quality of time you spend with your family. If you or someone you know has experienced a railroad accident, knowing that you can reach support and guidance can make a real difference. ]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[Can you still file a FELA claim after leaving your job?]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254696 2026-03-18T15:07:33Z 2026-03-18T15:07:33Z You can still file even after leaving the railroad You can still file a FELA claim after leaving your job, as long as the injury happened during your employment. Your right to bring a claim comes from when and how you were hurt, not whether you still work for the railroad. This means quitting, retiring or being terminated does not automatically block your claim if the injury ties back to your work.

You have three years to file

What matters most is the statute of limitations, which generally gives you three years to file a FELA claim. The clock usually starts on the date of the injury. However, in some cases, especially with gradual or repetitive injuries, it may start when you knew or should have known your condition was work-related. If that deadline passes, your claim can be barred regardless of your employment status.

Delayed or worsening injuries can still qualify

You may still have a valid claim if your injury appeared later or became worse after you left the railroad. This often happens with conditions such as back injuries or those linked to repeated strain, where symptoms develop over time. What matters here is the connection between your work and your condition. So, if your job played a role in causing or worsening the injury, you may still have grounds to file a claim.

If you’re unsure, get help

If you are unsure where you stand, you do not have to guess or figure it out on your own. Talking through your situation with someone familiar with FELA claims can help you understand if you still have options and what steps make sense from here.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[Can everyday electronics cause severe injuries?]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254693 2025-12-22T08:04:16Z 2025-12-22T08:02:16Z Common devices and rechargeable power Many widely used products rely on rechargeable energy systems. These batteries allow devices to work without cords and stay portable. But, they also store lots of energy that can be dangerous. Products that rely on rechargeable power include:
  • Electric scooters and e-bikes used for commuting or recreation
  • Mobile phones, tablets and portable charging banks
  • Cordless tools and heavy-duty equipment
  • Laptop computers and other rechargeable household devices
People commonly use these items indoors or close to their bodies. When something goes wrong with how these devices store or release energy, they can cause serious harm.

How internal failures can lead to serious harm

After a serious injury, safety reviews examine whether a product flaw caused the accident or if rather the user misused the device. A failure inside a rechargeable component may allow heat to build. In some devices, this heat can trigger a rapid chain reaction that leads to fire or explosion. Poor design, manufacturing errors or weak safety testing may increase this risk. Some products also lack clear guidance about charging or heat exposure. When these events occur inside homes, garages or other enclosed spaces, flames can spread fast and limit escape. The resulting harm can go far beyond minor burns. Victims may suffer serious burns that require skin grafts and long-term care. Explosive force can also cause amputations, permanent scarring or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from blunt impact or falls. In documented cases, fires tied to electronic devices have been linked to deadly residential incidents, especially when they start at night while people sleep. These outcomes can affect a person’s ability to work, care for themselves or handle everyday tasks.

When device failures raise product liability concerns

Severe harm linked to consumer electronics may raise product liability concerns. In Minnesota, these legal claims examine whether a device had a design flaw, a manufacturing issue or missing safety warnings. Responsibility may extend beyond just the brand name to include designers, manufacturers, distributors or others in the supply chain. During these cases, investigators review testing records, quality control practices and whether similar failures occurred before the injury. Minnesota’s product liability law provides important protections for consumers injured by defective products. When everyday devices cause serious harm, understanding these laws can help injured people and their families determine whether a defect played a role in their injuries and what legal options they can pursue.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[5 hidden costs of catastrophic car accident injuries]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254692 2025-09-25T15:45:24Z 2025-09-25T15:45:24Z Home modifications for accessibility After a major injury, your home might not work for you anymore. You might need wider doorways for a wheelchair. Your bathrooms might need a complete overhaul with roll-in showers and grab bars. Ramps, stair lifts and moving bedrooms to the first floor can cost many thousands of dollars. If you live in a two-story home or in a high-rise apartment, you might even need to move into a new single-story or lower-level home.

Lost earning capacity and career changes

Your injury might stop you from working in your chosen job forever. This goes beyond missing paychecks while you recover. You might need a different career, take a lower-paying job or work fewer hours. Some people can't work at all after their accident. This money loss adds up over many years, often reaching millions in lost income that insurance might not fully count.

Ongoing medical equipment and supplies

Catastrophic injuries often require specialized equipment throughout recovery and beyond. Spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or severe burns may demand various medical supplies that need regular replacement, like:
  • Wheelchairs: Typically need replacement every 3-5 years
  • Prosthetics: May updates as you grow or as technology gets better
  • Hospital-grade monitors: Heart rate, blood pressure, or glucose monitors can be expensive and don't last forever
  • Ventilators: TBI and other injuries may require breathing support
  • Infusion pumps: Some medications or nutrients may require direct delivery into the bloodstream
These costs can continue long after the accident happened.

Professional caregiver expenses

Many serious injuries need ongoing care that family members can't provide alone. You might need to hire professional caregivers or nurses to help with daily living. Professional helpers can cost up to $20 per hour or even more for highly experienced workers. Depending on your needs, this can potentially add up to over $50,000 in a year. Even part-time care creates a big money strain.

Mental health treatment costs

The mental impact of serious injuries often gets less attention than physical recovery. Victims often feel depression, anxiety, PTSD and other mental health problems. Additionally, family members caring for injured loved ones may develop similar issues. Ongoing therapy, doctor visits and medication create another expense that continues for years after the accident.

Protect your financial future after the injury

Getting fair compensation through legal help addresses these hidden costs of serious injuries. While no amount can fully fix the financial problems after a life-changing car accident, fighting for your legal rights gives you important resources for recovery. An experienced personal injury attorney can help identify these less obvious expenses to strengthen your claim and get the money you need for both now and later.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[How can funeral expenses be covered in MN wrongful death cases?]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254691 2025-06-30T14:59:48Z 2025-06-30T14:59:48Z Losing someone is hard, and funeral costs add stress. In Minnesota wrongful death cases, you can recover these expenses as part of your claim.

Who can claim funeral and burial costs?

In Minnesota, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate files a wrongful death claim. This person includes funeral and burial expenses in the damages. You don’t need a special petition. The claim automatically includes compensation for "the reasonable funeral expenses" and any related losses.

What counts as reasonable funeral expenses?

Reasonable funeral expenses usually include the casket or urn, funeral home services, burial plot or cremation niche, flowers, obituary notices, memorial programs, and transportation such as a hearse or family vehicles. Minnesota law expects you to show these expenses as necessary and reasonable, not extravagant. Receipts, invoices, and a funeral director’s statement support your claim.

Does insurance or other sources cover these expenses?

If life insurance or burial insurance pays funeral costs, the estate can still seek recovery. Minnesota law lets the estate recover full funeral expenses even when insurance covers part. However, if someone else, like a family member or employer benefit, pays the costs, the total damages you can claim decrease. This rule prevents double recovery.

How do you include funeral costs in wrongful death settlements?

During settlement or court proceedings, clearly itemize funeral expenses in the estate’s damage schedule. Your personal representative provides documentation of actual costs. Judges review and approve only expenses they find reasonable. While funeral expense awards vary, courts aim to reimburse families fully without allowing excess.

What should you do if expenses exceed expectations?

If funeral costs run high, explain why each expense was necessary. For example, if you needed long-distance transport, describe that need. Courts may accept higher expenses when you justify them. Keep your documentation clear and detailed.

Including funeral costs thoughtfully

Minnesota Statutes section 573.02 lets you recover "reasonable funeral expenses" in wrongful death cases. Section 573.01 authorizes the personal representative to pursue all damages, including funeral costs. When you understand and document these expenses clearly, you help ensure fair reimbursement for your family.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[Can whole-body vibration cause herniated discs?]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254690 2025-04-08T17:54:49Z 2025-04-08T17:54:49Z Spending long hours on a moving train can do more than cause discomfort. For railroad workers, constant exposure to whole-body vibration may lead to serious spine problems, including herniated discs. Understanding the connection between vibration and spinal health helps you stay aware of potential risks on the job.

Understanding whole-body vibration in railroads

Whole-body vibration happens when your entire body shakes from prolonged contact with a vibrating surface, like a locomotive seat or floor. In railroads, this vibration comes from engine movement, track conditions, and speed changes. If you operate or ride in trains for long periods, your spine absorbs the brunt of this force. Repeated exposure increases stress on your spinal discs, especially in the lower back. Over time, that stress can weaken the outer layer of the discs, leading to tears or bulging. That bulge, or herniation, presses against nerves and causes pain, numbness, or weakness.

How vibration contributes to disc injuries

Your spine works like a shock absorber. It handles movement, weight, and impact. But when exposed to constant shaking, it wears down faster. Vibration reduces the spine’s natural ability to cushion pressure. Combined with awkward postures or poor seating, this makes disc injuries more likely. Many railroad jobs involve long hours in one position. Whether you sit in a locomotive cab or stand on a vibrating platform, your spine gets limited rest. This lack of movement, paired with vibration, increases the risk of disc degeneration and herniation.

Recognizing signs of a herniated disc

Herniated discs often start with dull back pain. That pain might spread to your legs or arms, depending on the disc’s location. You might notice tingling, muscle weakness, or pain when bending or lifting. These symptoms mean your nerves could be under pressure from a bulging disc. If left untreated, herniated discs can cause lasting nerve damage. Early recognition and action can protect your long-term health.

Protecting yourself from vibration exposure

You can reduce your risk by adjusting your posture and using proper back support. Make sure your seat absorbs vibration and supports your lower back. Take regular breaks to stand, stretch, and move. Using vibration-dampening mats or cushions also helps limit spinal stress. Knowing how vibration affects your spine is the first step to staying safe. Paying attention to how your body feels during and after work can prevent bigger problems down the road.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[What to do after an amputation from a railroad accident]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254688 2025-01-09T18:07:08Z 2025-01-09T18:07:08Z A railroad accident can have life-altering consequences, including severe injuries like amputations. Coping with this type of trauma is overwhelming, but taking specific steps can help you focus on recovery and secure the support you need.

Seek immediate medical care

Your health and safety are the top priorities after an accident. Get medical treatment right away, even if you think your injuries aren’t severe. Amputations require specialized care to prevent complications, manage pain, and begin the process of rehabilitation.

Document the accident

Gather as much information as possible about the accident. Take photographs of the scene, your injuries, and any contributing factors like damaged equipment or unsafe conditions. Write down what you remember, including the time, location, and details leading up to the incident. This documentation can help you understand what happened and protect your rights.

Keep detailed records

Maintain a file of all medical records, bills, and correspondence related to your injury. These documents provide a clear record of your treatment and the costs associated with your recovery. Tracking these details can also help you stay organized as you navigate the next steps.

Focus on your rehabilitation

After an amputation, rehabilitation is essential for regaining strength and adjusting to your new circumstances. This may include physical therapy, mental health support, and exploring prosthetic options. Building a support network of family, friends, and professionals can make a significant difference during this time.

Understand your options for compensation

Railroad accidents often involve complex regulations, and you may be eligible for compensation if negligence or unsafe conditions contributed to your injury. Research available resources to help cover medical costs, lost wages, and long-term care needs. Suffering an amputation from a railroad accident is life-changing, but taking these steps can help you regain control and focus on recovery. Understanding how to proceed can guide you toward the support you need to move forward.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[What to do when a faulty product causes permanent disability]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254687 2024-09-23T16:41:34Z 2024-09-30T16:40:55Z Whether it’s a defective car part, a malfunctioning medical device, or an unsafe household item, an injury from a faulty product can take a physical, emotional, and financial toll on your family. The outcome is even more devastating if the harm causes a permanent disability. At such a time, you want justice and a resolution but may be at a loss for how to move forward. A few positive steps in the right direction can help your family start the healing process.

Seek medical care immediately

After a serious injury, medical care should be your top priority. Even if the injury seems minor at first, get a full evaluation. Some internal conditions may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time. Studies even show that brain injuries might not appear until years later. The injured person should follow all treatment recommendations and attend follow-up appointments to improve recovery. Regular healthcare ensures you have the necessary information for good medical decisions.  In cases of permanent disability, you may also need to consult specialists. These can include physical therapists, rehabilitation experts, or mental health professionals. They can help you understand the long-term impact of the injury and develop a solid plan for ongoing care. 

Document the product and the injury

When a defective product causes a serious injury, gather as much information about the incident as possible. Start by saving the faulty product, along with any packaging, instructions, and receipts. Take photos and videos of the product, especially any defects or damage. Capture images and video of the injury itself as well. Over time, fully document symptoms, treatments, and changes in physical or mental condition. Throughout medical treatment, keep copies of records and bills.  Also, save any communication with the product's manufacturer or distributor. This evidence can help identify what went wrong with the product and track the full impact of the injury. Permanent disabilities require long-term care and support, but early steps can help your family work through the challenges ahead. Taking proactive steps gives you the best chance at managing the situation and pursuing fair compensation for your damages.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[You kept your job – could you still experience retaliation?]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254684 2024-07-03T20:00:28Z 2024-07-03T20:00:28Z 7 forms of retaliation Retaliation at work can show up in many different ways. This can make it hard for employees to realize when someone is treating them unfairly. It is important to know the different forms retaliation can take to protect your rights at work. Under the Federal Railroad Safety Act (FRSA), retaliation can take various forms. Any of these actions can impact your income today and harm your career for years to come. Retaliation can include:
  • Firing an employee: The clearest form of retaliation occurs when an employer fires an employee for taking part in a protected activity.
  • Reassignment or demotion: Employers might harm an employee's career by moving them to a less favorable position or demoting them. This can affect their salary and future job opportunities.
  • Denying overtime or promotion: Employers may also retaliate by not allowing overtime or refusing to promote an employee.
  • Cutting pay or hours: Reducing an employee's hours or salary without a legitimate business reason can be a form of punishment.
  • Undeserved discipline: Employers might punish workers for small or made-up issues after they engage in a protected activity, potentially setting them up for firing.
  • Intimidation or harassment: Creating a hostile work environment can be a way to punish the employee for whistleblowing. It might also discourage them from reporting further.
  • Limiting access to medical care after an accident: Railroad accidents are often severe. Employers may try to punish workers by discouraging the use of first aid or refusing to provide necessary treatment after an accident on the job.
Thankfully, it is possible for workers to hold employers responsible for retaliation. This can benefit workers in many ways. For instance, employers might have to reinstate the employee, allowing them to return to their previous job. They may also have to pay the employee for the wages they lost due to the unfair treatment. Even though losing your job is a recognized form of retaliation, it can also occur in less noticeable ways. Knowing their legal rights and how to spot retaliation can help employees protect their career and maintain a safe and fair workplace.]]> On Behalf of Bremseth Law Firm PC <![CDATA[The severity of railroad crossing accident injuries in Minnesota]]> https://www.bremseth.com/?p=254683 2024-04-08T22:44:27Z 2024-04-08T22:44:27Z Types of injuries The injuries from railroad crossing accidents can range from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries include broken bones, head injuries, spinal injuries and internal bleeding. The force of the impact can cause severe trauma, leading to long-term health issues or even death. In some cases, survivors face a long road to recovery, including surgeries, physical therapy and other treatments.

Impact on the injured and their families

The severity of these injuries can have a profound impact on those involved and their families. Beyond the immediate physical injuries, individuals may experience emotional and psychological distress. The financial burden can also be significant, with medical bills, lost wages and other expenses adding up quickly. Families may find themselves struggling to cope with the sudden change in their loved one's health and the associated costs.

The role of safety improvements

Improving the safety of railroad crossings can also help reduce the number of accidents and the severity of injuries. This can include upgrading crossing signals, adding gates and barriers and improving the visibility of crossings. By taking these steps, communities can help protect drivers and passengers from the devastating impact of these accidents. The injuries from railroad crossing accidents in Minnesota can be life-changing, and understanding the dire consequences of railroad crossing incidents is important for fostering a safer future on Minnesota's roads.]]>