Thompson Coburn’s railroad practice dates back to the days when steam locomotives dominated the rails. Our relationship with the industry is still going strong, as our teams collaborate to assist numerous Class I, regional, and short line railroads with their litigation, corporate and regulatory matters, and everything in between.
Clients include some of the biggest names in the industry, such as BNSF Railway, CSX Transportation, Canadian National Railway, Canadian Pacific Railway, Kansas City Southern Railway, and Norfolk Southern Railway Company.
Our full-service railroad practice is powered by our intimate knowledge of the business, its people and its history. We regularly defend FELA traumatic and occupational claims, third-party tort claims, labor cases (including FRSA claims), environmental matters, freight disputes, and disputes about side track agreements. Major railroads also turn to us for assistance with real estate, regulatory, and corporate matters. We have deep experience with all relevant agencies and regulations.
an earned reputation for getting improperly filed cases removed
Our home base — including Madison County, St. Clair County, City of St. Louis and Cook County, Illinois — represents major hubs of railroad litigation, in large part because these venues are perceived by some as particularly “plaintiff-friendly.” While we stand ready to litigate in any venue, we have developed a powerful niche and track record in getting those cases that have been improperly filed successfully relocated, based on defenses including personal jurisdiction, statutory venue and forum non conveniens. We have played a significant role in shaping railroad law, participating in the regulatory process and obtaining successful results in federal and state appeals courts.
new life for old rails
In addition to our “traditional” railroad work, we help port authorities and municipalities craft strategic and sustainable solutions that bring new life not only to these old rails, but to their communities. Some rails are being transformed into hiking or “rail trails,” helping to drive tourism and boost local economies. Other clients decide to take these rails completely out of service (and transportation jurisdiction) by paving over them or turning them into roads, in which case we can assist with all required STB filings and approvals.
We combine industry knowledge, talented personnel, and cutting-edge technology to ensure the highest quality of service in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
We innovate in the use of alternative billing arrangements, database management, and early evaluation of difficult cases.
Our clients expect and deserve imaginative approaches, responsiveness, and communication — and we deliver.
We live and work in these jurisdictions and fight fiercely for our railroad clients here.
