FELA and Railroad Lawsuits
Workers exposed to toxic chemicals like coal fumes, diesel exhaust or asbestos may be diagnosed with serious illnesses like cancer. A successful FELA claim can award damages to compensate for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering.
Union Pacific recently awarded $7.5 Million to one of their railroad workers who developed Leukemia. This is only one example of the justice system standing up for victims.
Benzene
Railroad workers are often exposed to hazardous substances and chemical solvents, including benzene. The evaporation rate of benzene is high. liquid which can be absorbed via the skin or inhaled. It has been linked with a variety of medical diseases, such as blood cancers, cancers of the blood like leukemia and lymphoma as well as bone marrow disease. It is also a carcinogen as well as is a component of coal creosote, a substance used to protect railroad tracks from heat, sunlight snow, rain, and sunlight.
One former rail worker claimed that exposure to benzene during his work with coal tar creosote railroad ties triggered Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), that progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury handed him $7.5 million last September.
Those who have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic diseases because of exposure to benzene asbestos radioactive substances as well as other hazardous chemicals, have the right to claim compensation under FELA. Based on the type of cancer or illness the statute of limitations can vary, which is why it is imperative to consult a seasoned lawyer as quickly as you can.
Shaw Cowart's railroad lawyers can assist you in determining if your case is suitable for an FELA lawsuit. We provide free consultations, and we are well-versed in FELA and railroad workplaces.
Asbestos
Our attorneys have represented railroad workers who were diagnosed with lung cancer and other health conditions due to asbestos exposure. They were often employed in areas like repair shops, engine rooms and yards or on rail cars with derailments or on track equipment that had asbestos insulation that was degrading. This type of asbestos can be extremely hazardous, as when it degrades, tiny fibers are released in the air. These fibers are inhaled by railroad employees and can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer asbestosis, and pleural plaque.
Railroad workers are at risk of developing lung disease due to diesel exhaust, silica sand, and welding fumes. These particles and fumes can damage the lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and blood cells. cancer lawsuits are usually discovered after years of exposure, and can lead to several grave and debilitating health conditions.
The recent case against Conrail shows the dangers associated with this type of work. The Appeals Court upheld a jury award of $2.3 million to the railroad company in respect of an employee of the railroad who died from mesothelioma. A jury awarded damages for his suffering and pain, loss of companionship, future medical expenses and other losses. Bladder cancer lawsuit of working closely with an experienced attorney that will quickly determine if an FELA claim is warranted.
Radioactive Substances
People exposed to radioactive substances could develop cancer or other serious ailments. These substances are often concealed in the materials that railroads use to clean track and other rail yards. It is often difficult to detect them unless the railroad's company checks for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad worker is diagnosed with cancer or a different illness that was caused by exposure to carcinogenic substances on the job, they can make an FELA claim and receive compensation from their former employer.
cancer lawsuits has shown that workers in the railroad industry are more likely to develop different types of cancers than other people. They are constantly exposed the toxins that can cause lung cancer. They are exposed to asbestos and sand (silica), diesel fumes or welding fumes.
Railroad workers who have been diagnosed with cancer as a result of exposure to radiation on the job should consult an attorney for railroads as soon as they can. They can help them determine whether they have a case against the former employer and initiate the appropriate lawsuits based on FELA. These lawsuits can cover compensation for medical expenses as well as loss of income and pain and suffering. They may also be compensated for the loss of a loved one in an wrongful-death case. A railroad lawyer with experience can help victims receive the maximum amount of damages that they are entitled to under FELA.
FELA
Conductors, engineers and train crew members work in hazardous environments where they could damage their lungs without even realizing. If a former railroad worker is suffering from an illness such as lung cancer or another condition which could be linked to their work or work, they may be eligible to seek compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).
Contrary to workers' compensation FELA permits railroad employees who have been injured to file a lawsuit. This includes past and future medical costs and emotional suffering. A lawyer familiar with the rules of FELA could explain your options to file.
In order to win a FELA lawsuit, you will need to prove that the employer acted in a negligent way. It could be a matter of breaking a rule or law or failing to meet an acceptable standard of care, and many more. A skilled FELA lawyer can review your case to determine whether negligence on the part of the railroad was a factor in the triggering of your illness.
Railroad exposure can cause variety of lung illnesses. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust creosote, or other toxins during your employment on the railway and you are a mesothelioma patient, a certified attorney can help you file for compensation under FELA. The FELA cases handled by Hughes Law Offices have resulted in a variety of verdicts and settlements.