FELA and Railroad Lawsuits
Railroad workers exposed to toxic chemicals such as diesel exhaust fumes, coal fumes, benzene or asbestos are at risk of developing a serious illness like cancer. A successful FELA claim can award damages that will cover medical expenses, income loss discomfort and more.
A railroad worker who contracted leukemia has been awarded $7.5 million from Union Pacific. This is only one illustration of how the justice system defends for the injured.
Benzene
Railroad workers are often exposed to chemical solvents as well as other hazardous substances, such as benzene. It is a highly evaporative liquid that is absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a variety of medical conditions, including cancer blood-related cancers, such as Lymphoma and Leukemia, and bone-marrow disease. It is also a carcinogen, and an ingredient in coal tar creosote. It's used to protect railroad ties from heat, sunlight, rain and snow.
A former railroad worker claimed that exposure to benzene while working with coal-tar creosote to create railroad ties, led to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury handed him $7.5 million last September.
People who have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illnesses resulting from exposure to asbestos, benzene, radioactive substances and other toxic chemicals are able to make a claim for compensation under FELA. The time period for filing claims can differ based on the nature and severity of the cancer or disease. It is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
A railroad attorney from Shaw Cowart can help you determine whether your case is a valid FELA claim. We offer free consultations and we're familiar with FELA and railroad workplaces.
Asbestos
Our attorneys have represented railroad workers who developed lung cancer and other health issues due to asbestos exposure. They frequently worked in areas such as repair shops, engine rooms, and yards and on rail cars that had been damaged or on track equipment that was asbestos insulation that was becoming degraded. This kind of asbestos can be extremely hazardous, as when it degrades, tiny fibers are released in the air. The fibers can be breathed in by railroad workers and can cause mesothelioma as well as other asbestos-related health issues including lung cancer, asbestosis as well as pleural plaques and fibrosis.
In addition to asbestos, railroad workers are also at risk of developing lung disease due to diesel exhaust and exposure to other workplace toxins such as welding fumes, solvents and silica sand. These fumes can cause damage to the lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract. These injuries can be diagnosed many years after the initial exposure and can cause a variety serious and debilitating diseases.
The recent case against Conrail exposes the risks associated with this kind of work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against Conrail in the case of a former railway worker who died of mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages for suffering and suffering, loss of companionship, future medical expenses and other expenses. This case highlights the importance of working closely with an experienced attorney that can quickly assess whether an FELA claim is justified.
Radioactive Substances
People who are exposed to radioactive substances may develop cancers or other serious illnesses. The substances are usually hidden in the materials that railroads employ to clean tracks and other rail yards. It can be difficult to detect them unless the railroad company examines for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad employee develops cancer or suffers from another illness triggered through exposure to carcinogenic substances on the job, he can submit an FELA and receive compensation from his former employer.
Studies have shown that railroad workers are more likely to develop various types of cancer than other people. This is because they are constantly exposed to toxins that can cause lung cancer, like asbestos as well as Sand dust (silica) and welding fumes, diesel fumes, and creosote.
A railroad lawyer is recommended to be consulted as soon as possible by railroad workers who have been diagnosed with cancer as a result of exposure on the job. They can help them determine whether they have a right to claim against their former employers and make the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. These claims can include reimbursement for medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and discomfort. Additionally, they can compensate for the loss of a loved one as part of a wrongful death claim. A knowledgeable railroad lawyer can assist victims receive the full amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.
FELA
Conductors, engineers and train crew members work in hazardous situations where they may damage their lungs and not even realize it. If a former railroad worker has contracted an illness, such as lung cancer or another illness that could have been related to their job and work, they could be eligible to file for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).
In contrast to workers' compensation, FELA allows railroad workers who are injured to file a lawsuit. This includes past and future medical costs and emotional suffering. An attorney who is familiar with FELA regulations can tell you the options.
To win a FELA lawsuit, you will have to prove that your employer acted in a negligent manner. Negligence could include breaking a rule or law and not meeting the acceptable standards of care, and many more. A FELA lawyer can review your case and determine if railroad negligence was a factor in your condition.
Railroad exposure can trigger a variety of lung illnesses. If you were exposed in your railroad career to diesel exhaust or other toxins such as creosote, asbestos, or creosote, a mesothelioma lawyer could help you file claims for compensation under the FELA. railroad controls limited lawsuit has handled FELA cases in the past, and have resulted in a variety verdicts and settlements.