FELA and Railroad Lawsuits
Railroad workers who are exposed to toxic chemicals such as diesel exhaust benzene, coal fumes or asbestos are at risk of developing a serious illness like cancer. A successful FELA claim can provide compensation for medical expenses, loss of income discomfort and more.
Union Pacific recently awarded $7.5 Million to an employee of the railroad who contracted Leukemia. union pacific railroad lawsuit is only one illustration of how the justice system fights for the victims.
Benzene
Railroad workers frequently work with chemical solvents and other hazardous materials, including benzene. It is a highly evaporated liquid that can be absorbed by the skin or inhaled. It is associated with various medical conditions, including cancer and blood-related cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, and bone-marrow diseases. It is also a cancer-causing substance and a component in coal tar creosote which is used to shield railroad ties from sunlight, heat and rain.
union pacific railroad lawsuit claimed that his exposure to benzene while working with coal-tar creosote create railroad ties, contributed to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid leukemia. A jury awarded the man $7.5 million in September of last year.
Those who have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic diseases due to exposure to radioactive substances benzene asbestos and other harmful chemicals, have the right to claim compensation under FELA. The statute of limitations can vary based on the type and extent of the cancer or illness. It is imperative to consult with an experienced attorney immediately.
A railroad attorney at Shaw Cowart can help you determine if your case is a valid FELA claim. We provide free consultations, and we are knowledgeable about FELA and railroad workplaces.
Asbestos
Our attorneys have represented railroad workers who were diagnosed with lung cancer and other health issues caused by asbestos exposure. They frequently worked in areas such as repair shops, engine rooms, and yards, on derailed rail cars or on track equipment that had asbestos insulation that was degrading. This kind of asbestos is especially dangerous because, as it degrades tiny fibers are released into air. These fibers are inhaled by railroad workers and can cause mesothelioma along with other asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer asbestosis, pleural plaque and fibrosis.
Railroad workers are at risk of developing lung diseases due to diesel exhaust, silica sand, and welding fumes. These fumes can cause damage to the lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract. These injuries are often discovered many years after an employee's initial exposure and can cause various serious and debilitating medical conditions.
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 respect of a former railway worker who passed away from mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages to compensate for suffering and pain along with companionship loss, future medical expenses, and other losses. This case highlights the importance of working closely with an experienced attorney who can quickly assess whether the FELA claims is warranted.
Radioactive Substances
Railroad workers who have been exposed to radioactive substances are at risk for developing certain types of cancers and other serious ailments. These substances are typically hidden in the materials railroads use to clean tracks and other rail yards. They can be difficult to identify unless a railroad company is actively screening them for alpha and gamma radiation. If a railroad employee develops cancer or another disease caused by exposure to carcinogenic materials while on the job, he could make a FELA and receive compensation from his former employer.
Studies have shown that railroad workers are much more likely to develop various types of cancer than other people. They are exposed to chemicals that can cause lung cancer. These include asbestos and the mineral sand (silica), welding fumes and diesel.
Railroad employees who have been diagnosed with cancer as a result of exposure to radiation on the job should consult a railroad lawyer as soon as possible. They can assist them in determining whether they have a case against the former employer and file the appropriate lawsuits that are based on FELA. These claims could include the payment of medical expenses or loss of income, as well as suffering and pain. They may also be compensated for the death of a loved one as an wrongful-death case. An experienced railroad attorney can help victims get the maximum amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.
Bladder cancer lawsuit as engineers conductors, and train crew members are often exposed to hazardous conditions that can damage lungs without even realizing it. Former railroad workers who have developed lung cancer or other conditions which could be caused by their work can apply for compensation under Federal Employers Liability (FELA).
As opposed to cancer lawsuit permits railroad employees who are injured to sue. This includes future and past emotional and medical expenses. An attorney who is familiar with FELA regulations can explain to you your options.
To win a FELA lawsuit, you'll be required to prove that your employer acted in a negligent manner. The definition of negligence can be as simple as breaking a rule or law and not meeting an acceptable standard of care, or any other. A knowledgeable FELA lawyer could review your case to determine if the railroad's negligence played a role in causing your illness.
Railroad exposure can trigger a variety of lung illnesses. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust creosote and other toxins throughout your employment on the railroad, a mesothelioma lawyer who is experienced can help you file for compensation under FELA. The FELA cases handled by Hughes Law Offices in the past have resulted into a variety of verdicts and settlements.