FELA and Railroad LawsuitsRailroad workers who are exposed to harmful chemicals such as diesel exhaust fumes, coal fumes, benzene or asbestos are at risk of developing serious illness including cancer. A successful FELA case could award damages to pay medical costs, loss of income and suffering and pain.A railroad worker who contracted leukemia was recently awarded $7.5 million from Union Pacific. This is just one example of the justice system standing up for victims.BenzeneRailroad workers often work with chemical solvents and other dangerous substances, such as benzene. Benzene is a highly evaporative liquid that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to various medical conditions, including cancer blood-related cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, and bone-marrow disease. It is also a substance that causes cancer and is a component of coal tar creosote. It is used to shield railroad tie from heat, sunlight and rain.A former railway worker claimed that exposure to benzene, while working with coal-tar creosote create railroad ties, led to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury gave him $7.5 million in September. mesothelioma lawsuit who have been diagnosed as having cancer or other chronic diseases because of exposure to radioactive substances benzene asbestos, and other hazardous chemicals, have the right to claim compensation under FELA. Depending on the type of cancer or illness the time limit for filing a claim can vary, which is why it is imperative to consult with a knowledgeable lawyer as soon as you can.Shaw Cowart's railroad attorneys can help you determine if your case is a candidate to be an FELA lawsuit. We offer free consultations and we are familiar with FELA and railroad workplaces.AsbestosOur lawyers have represented railroad workers who contracted lung cancer and other illnesses caused by asbestos exposure. They worked in places like repair shops, engine room and yards, as well as on track equipment or derailed rail cars with asbestos insulation. This type of asbestos is particularly dangerous since, when it begins to degrade, tiny fibers are released into air. These fibers are inhaled by railway workers and may cause mesothelioma or lung cancer as well as asbestosis and the pleural plaque. Multiple myeloma lawsuit are at the risk of developing lung cancer from diesel exhaust, silica sand and welding fumes. These fumes can cause damage to the kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal tract. These injuries are often diagnosed after years of exposure and can lead to many serious and debilitating medical conditions.A recent case against Conrail highlights the risks associated with this type of work. The Appeals Court upheld a jury award of $2.3 million to Conrail for an ex-railway employee who passed away from mesothelioma. A jury awarded damages to cover suffering and pain and companionship loss, as well as future medical expenses and other losses. This case highlights the importance of working closely with an experienced attorney that can quickly assess whether an FELA claims is warranted.Radioactive SubstancesRailroad workers who are exposed to radioactive substances are at risk for developing certain types of cancers as well as other serious diseases. They are often concealed in the materials railroads use to clean tracks and other rail yards. It can be difficult to detect them unless the railroad company actively examines for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad worker is diagnosed with cancer or a different illness due to exposure to carcinogenic substances while on the job, they may make a FELA claim and receive compensation from their former employer.Railroad workers are more prone than other people to develop cancer. This is due to being constantly exposed to toxins that can cause lung cancer, like asbestos and Sand dust (silica), diesel fumes, welding fumes, and creosote.A railroad lawyer is recommended to be consulted as soon as is possible by railroad employees who are diagnosed with cancer as a result of exposure to radiation while working. Kidney cancer lawsuit can assist them in determining whether they have a right to claim against their former employers and file the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. These claims could include compensation for medical costs, loss of income and pain and suffering. They can also compensate for the death of a loved one through a wrongful-death claim. A railroad lawyer with experience will assist victims to receive the maximum amount of damages they are entitled to, under FELA.FELAEngineers, conductors, and train crew members work in dangerous environments that can cause damage to their lungs without realizing it. If a former railroad employee has been diagnosed with an illness such as lung cancer or another disease which could be linked to their work and work, they could be eligible to claim compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).Contrary to workers' compensation FELA allows railroad workers who have been injured to sue. This includes future and past medical costs and emotional suffering. An attorney who is familiar with the regulations under FELA could explain your options to file.To prevail in a FELA lawsuit, you'll have to prove that your employer acted negligently in a way. Negligence may involve breaking a law or rule and not observing a reasonable standard of care, and many more. A knowledgeable FELA lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if the railroad's negligence played a role in causing your illness.Several different types of lung diseases and illnesses could be attributed to exposures to railroads. If you were exposed to diesel exhaust, asbestos, creosote or other toxins during your employment on the railroad, a mesothelioma lawyer who is experienced can assist you in filing for compensation under FELA. The FELA cases handled by Hughes Law Offices in the past have resulted in a range of verdicts and settlements.