Railroad Settlements and Colon CancerExposure to toxic chemicals can increase the risk of certain cancers in railway workers. They are exposed to diesel exhaust as well as other workplace toxins such as silica sands, solvents, asbestos, and creosote.Hughes Law Offices have won large verdicts and settlements for these cases. Below are a few examples.FELA LawsuitsRegardless of the position they held at the railway, employees who suffer from cancer that is related to their work may file a claim for compensation under The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). The law was enacted over a century ago and has helped hold railroad companies accountable when their employees are injured.The law allows railroad workers injured to claim damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The amount of money awarded for pain and suffering are not limited. A FELA attorney will meet with the client and their loved ones to get more understanding of the impact cancer has affected their lives. Consultation with oncologists or chemotherapy technicians can also be helpful.A FELA claim can be filed in either a state or federal court. Federal substantive law governs FELA claims, but federal courts can apply common law tort principles in cases brought under FELA.The main challenge facing the plaintiff in a FELA case is establishing the possibility of liability. Railroad companies typically rely on defenses of comparative negligence to shift a portion or all liability away from them. However, with the help of an experienced attorney, former railroad workers can be successful in the face of such challenges.Medical ExpensesA railroad worker's cancer diagnosis can cause a number of financial difficulties. Cancer treatment can also mean absence from work, which could mean lost wages and increased expenses for caregivers. Medical costs and other expenses can also create a mountainous debt. Workers can be compensated for these expenses through a settlement under the Federal Employers Liability Act.FELA lawsuits may award damages for past and future medical expenses, as in addition to non-tangible effects such as pain and suffering. A skilled FELA lawyer can help a client establish an adequate amount of compensation for the different aspects of their injury. Settlements will cover future and past medical expenses as well as compensate a victim for any loss of income caused by the illness.Railroad workers are exposed many toxic substances at their job. Asbestos and diesel exhaust have both been linked with colon cancer. Exposure to metal-working liquids (soluants), pesticides, and other chemicals can increase the risk of developing cancer. Pulmonary fibrosis settlement can establish a connection between exposure to chemicals a worker is exposed to and health condition.Although each case is unique reviewing the past FELA settlements or verdicts can give a good indication of the potential payout of the case of a cancer affecting railroads. The attorneys at Hughes Law Offices may evaluate a settlement offer to determine if it could be sufficient to meet the needs of a client.Pain and SufferingLegally, pain and suffering refers to the mental and physical trauma that is caused by a medical accident. A jury could award a victim for suffering and pain and it can be an important component of a suit under the Federal Employers Liability Act. A lawyer who is knowledgeable about your case could help determine the appropriate amount of damages.Employers may offer settlement options for an injured employee before or during the trial. It is crucial to read through any settlement offer before accepting it. A lawyer from the railroad can evaluate a settlement to determine if it's reasonable and appropriate in the circumstances. They can also evaluate an offer with legal precedents to determine whether it's worth accepting the offer or taking the case to the court.Loss of EarningsRailroad workers can get compensation for the loss of earnings. The money will not cover the time that a worker was unable to work due to this condition or even bring back their health. However, it could help to provide financial stability to families in this tough moment. A lawyer for railroad injuries can assist in obtaining evidence to prove the victim's financial loss, including pay stubs and tax returns.Exposure to hazardous chemicals such as asbestos and diesel exhaust puts railroad workers at risk of risk of developing diseases, such as colon cancer. The attorneys at Hughes Law Offices will take all possible sources of exposure into account when pursuing damages for clients.Colorectal cancer is diagnosed through blood tests, stool testing and biopsies from suspicious areas of the rectum or colon. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Patients suffering from colon cancer due to their work on the railroad may be able to obtain significant compensation for past and future medical expenses and loss of income suffering and other damages.FELA has a statute of limitations of three years for filing an action against a railroad employer for injuries or illnesses that occur in the course of work. A lawyer who specializes in railroad injuries can assist in evaluating the settlement offer and determine if it is fair.