FELA and Railroad Lawsuits
Railroad workers who are exposed to harmful 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 could award damages that cover medical expenses, income loss pain and suffering, among other things.
A railroad worker who developed leukemia was recently awarded $7.5 million from Union Pacific. This is just one instance of how the justice system defends for victims.
Benzene
Railroad workers frequently work with chemical solvents, as well as other hazardous substances, like benzene. It is a highly evaporated liquid that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a variety of medical ailments, including blood cancers, cancers of the blood like leukemia and lymphoma, and bone marrow disease. It can also be a cancer-causing agent and a component of coal tar creosote, which is used to protect railroad tie from sunlight, heat and rain.
A former rail worker claimed that exposure to benzene, while working with coal-tar creosote make railroad ties, led to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid leukemia. cancer lawsuit awarded him $7.5 million last September.
Anyone who has been diagnosed as having cancer or other chronic diseases due to daily exposure to radioactive substances benzene asbestos, and other hazardous chemicals, are entitled to claim compensation under FELA. Based on the type of cancer or illness the statute of limitations may vary, so it is important to speak with a skilled lawyer as soon as possible.
Shaw Cowart's railroad attorneys can help you determine if your case qualifies for an FELA lawsuit. We offer free consultations, and we are knowledgeable about FELA and railroad workplaces.
Asbestos
Our lawyers have represented railroad workers who contracted lung cancer and other health issues caused by asbestos exposure. They worked in places like repair shops, engine room and yards, or on track equipment or derailed railway cars that contained asbestos insulation. This type of asbestos is especially dangerous because, when it deteriorates, tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers can be inhaled by railroad workers and cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses including lung cancer, asbestosis as well as pleural plaques and fibrosis.
In addition to asbestos, railroad workers are also at high risk for developing lung diseases from diesel exhaust as well as exposure to other workplace toxins, such as solvents, welding fumes and silica sand. These particles and fumes could damage the lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract as well as blood cells. These injuries can be detected years after the first exposure and can result in various serious and debilitating diseases.
cancer lawsuit involving Conrail exposes the risks associated with this type of work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against Conrail in the case of an ex-railway worker who died of mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages to cover suffering and pain along with companionship loss, future medical expenses and other losses. This case highlights the importance of working with a seasoned attorney who can quickly evaluate whether an FELA claim is justified.
Radioactive Substances
People exposed to radioactive substances could develop cancer or other serious ailments. These substances are often hidden in the materials railroads use to clean track and other rail yards. They are often difficult to identify unless a railroad company is testing them for alpha and gamma radiation. If a railroad employee develops cancer or another illness caused by exposure to carcinogenic materials while on the job, he may apply for an FELA and receive compensation from the company he worked for previously.
Studies have shown that workers in the railroad industry are more likely to develop different types of cancers than other people. cancer lawsuits is due to the fact that they are constantly exposed to toxins that can cause lung cancer, including asbestos as well as the sand dust (silica) as well as welding fumes, diesel fumes and creosote.
Bladder cancer lawsuit for railroads is recommended to be consulted as soon as is possible by railroad employees who are diagnosed with cancer because of exposure on the job. They can assist them in determining if there is a claim against the former employer and file the appropriate lawsuits that are based on FELA. These claims can include reimbursement for medical expenses, loss of income, as well as discomfort and pain. They may also seek compensation for the loss of a loved one as the case of wrongful death. A knowledgeable railroad lawyer can help victims get the maximum amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.
FELA
Railroad workers such as engineers conductors, and members of train crews are often in dangerous environments that can damage lungs without even realizing it. If a former railroad worker has contracted an illness, such as lung cancer or a different condition which could be linked to their work it is possible to seek compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).
Contrary to claims for workers' compensation, FELA allows injured railroad employees and families of deceased employees to file lawsuits for damages that include past and future emotional suffering and medical expenses. An attorney knowledgeable of FELA regulations can tell you the options.
To be successful in a FELA claim you must show that your employer acted negligently. The definition of negligence can include breaking a rule or law, failing to meet the standard of reasonable care and more. A FELA lawyer can evaluate your case and determine whether railroad negligence contributed to your condition.
Railroad exposure can cause a variety of lung diseases. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust creosote or any other toxic substances during your work on the railway, a reputable mesothelioma lawyer can help you file for compensation under FELA. Hughes Law Offices has handled FELA cases in the past, and they have resulted a variety of settlements and verdicts.