FELA and Railroad Lawsuits
Railroad workers exposed to harmful chemicals such as diesel exhaust benzene, coal fumes or asbestos are at risk of developing serious illness such as cancer. A successful FELA case can be awarded damages to cover medical costs, loss of income as well as suffering and pain.
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 chemical solvents and other hazardous materials, including benzene. It is a highly evaporative liquid that can be absorbed by the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a number of medical ailments, including blood cancers, cancers of the blood like leukemia and lymphoma, as well as bone marrow diseases. It is also a cancer-causing chemical and a component of coal tar creosote. It is used to shield railroad tie from heat, sunlight and rain.
A former railway worker claimed that his exposure to benzene working with coal-tar creosote make railroad ties, led to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury gave him $7.5 million in September.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illnesses because of their exposure to benzene asbestos radioactive substances and other harmful chemicals, have the right to claim compensation under FELA. Depending on the type of cancer or illness the statute of limitation will vary, therefore it is essential to speak with a skilled lawyer as soon as possible.
A railroad attorney at Shaw Cowart can help you determine if your case is eligible for a FELA claim. We offer free consultations, and we are well-versed in FELA and railroad workplaces.
Asbestos
Our lawyers have represented railroad employees who suffered from lung cancer and other health issues due to asbestos exposure. They worked in places like repair shops, engine room and yards, as well as on track equipment or derailed rail cars that contained asbestos insulation. This kind of asbestos can be particularly hazardous, since 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 conditions such as lung cancer, asbestosis as well as pleural plaques and fibrosis.
Railroad workers are at the risk of developing lung disease from diesel exhaust, silica sand, and welding fumes. These particles and fumes could damage the kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal tract, as well as blood cells. These injuries are usually discovered after years of exposure and can lead to several serious and debilitating medical conditions.
The recent case against Conrail illustrates the risks associated with this type work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against Conrail, the railroad company, in respect of an ex-railway worker who was diagnosed with mesothelioma. A jury awarded damages for pain and suffering, loss of companionship, future medical expenses and other expenses. union pacific railroad lawsuit underscores the importance of working with an experienced lawyer who can quickly assess whether a FELA claim is warranted.
Radioactive Substances
Railroad workers exposed to radioactive substances are at risk for developing certain types of cancers and other serious diseases. These substances are often concealed in the materials that railroads use to clean tracks and other rail yards. It can be difficult to detect them unless the railroad company checks for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railway worker develops cancer or another illness caused by exposure to carcinogenic materials while on the job, he can make a FELA and receive compensation from the company he worked for previously.
Research has shown that railroad workers are much more likely to develop a variety of cancers than other people. They are exposed to the toxins that can cause lung cancer. This includes asbestos and sand (silica) as well as welding fumes, or diesel fumes.
A railroad lawyer is recommended to be consulted as soon as possible by railroad workers who have been diagnosed as having cancer as a result of exposure to radiation during their work. They can assist them in determining whether they have a right to claim against their former employers and make the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. Leukemia lawsuit could include the payment of medical expenses, loss of income, pain and discomfort. Additionally, they can compensate for the loss of a loved one's life in an wrongful-death claim. A railroad attorney with experience can assist victims in obtaining the maximum amount of damages that they are entitled to, under FELA.
FELA
Railroad workers like engineers, conductors, and train crew members are often exposed to hazardous conditions that can damage lungs without realizing it. Former railroad workers who develop lung cancer or other conditions which could be caused by their work can claim compensation under Federal Employers Liability (FELA).
As opposed to cancer lawsuits allows railroad employees who have been injured to file a lawsuit. This includes past and future emotional and medical expenses. An attorney who is familiar with FELA regulations can explain to you the legal options.
In order to be successful in a FELA claim, you must prove that your employer was negligent. Negligence could include breaking a rule or law or not achieving the acceptable standards of care, and many more. A knowledgeable FELA lawyer will review your case to determine whether the railroad's negligence was a factor in the triggering of your illness.
Railroad exposure can lead to a variety of lung diseases. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust creosote or any other toxic substances during your career on the railway and you are a mesothelioma patient, a certified attorney can assist you in filing for compensation under FELA. Hughes Law Offices has handled FELA cases in the past and have resulted a variety of verdicts and settlements.