FELA and Railroad LawsuitsPeople exposed to harmful chemicals like diesel exhaust, coal fumes or asbestos could develop serious illnesses, including cancer. A successful FELA claim can award damages that will cover medical expenses, income loss pain suffering and more.A railroad worker who was diagnosed with leukemia was recently awarded $7.5 million from Union Pacific. This is only one example of the justice system standing up for the victims.BenzeneRailroad workers are frequently exposed to hazardous materials and chemical solvents like benzene. The liquid, which is extremely evaporative can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It has been linked with various medical conditions, including cancer blood-related cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, and bone-marrow diseases. It is also a substance that causes cancer and a constituent in coal tar creosote which is used to shield railroad ties from sunlight, heat and rain.A former railroad worker claimed that exposure to benzene, while working with coal-tar creosote to create railroad ties, lead to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid leukemia. A jury gave him $7.5 million in September.Those who have been diagnosed as having cancer or other chronic illnesses because of their exposure to radioactive substances benzene asbestos and other harmful chemicals, are entitled to claim compensation under FELA. asbestos lung cancer lawsuit of limitations may differ based on the nature and extent of the cancer or illness. It is imperative to consult an experienced attorney as soon as you can.Shaw Cowart's railroad attorneys can assist you in determining whether your case is suitable to be an FELA lawsuit. We provide free consultations and are conversant with FELA, railroad workplaces and the hazardous cancer-causing substances that railroad employees encounter every day.AsbestosOur lawyers have represented railroad workers who were diagnosed with lung cancer and other illnesses due to asbestos exposure. They typically worked in areas such as repair shops, engine rooms, and yards or on rail cars with derailments or track equipment that had deteriorating asbestos insulation. This type of asbestos is particularly hazardous since, when it begins to degrade tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers are inhaled by workers on railroads and cause mesothelioma as well as other asbestos-related health issues such as lung cancer asbestosis, pleural plaque and fibrosis.Railroad workers are at the risk of developing lung disease due to diesel exhaust, silicasand and welding fumes. The particles and fumes that are emitted from these workplaces can damage the kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal tract as well blood cells. These injuries can be identified several years after exposure and can lead a variety serious and debilitating diseases.Recent cases against Conrail exposes the risks associated with this kind of work. The Appeals Court upheld a jury award of $2.3 million to Conrail for an ex-railway worker who died of mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages to compensate for suffering and pain, companionship loss, future medical expenses, and other losses. This case highlights the importance of working closely with an experienced lawyer who can quickly assess whether an FELA claim is legitimate.Radioactive SubstancesRailroad workers who are exposed to radioactive substances are at risk for developing certain types of cancers and other serious illnesses. These substances are typically hidden in the materials used by railroads to clean tracks and other rail yards. They can be difficult to identify unless the railroad company is actively screening them for alpha and the gamma radiation. When a railroad worker is diagnosed with cancer or a different illness that was caused by exposure to carcinogenic substances on their job, they can file a FELA claim and receive compensation from their former employer.Studies have shown that workers in the railroad industry are more likely to develop different types of cancers than other people. This is because they are constantly exposed to toxic substances that can cause lung cancer, like asbestos dust, Sand dust (silica), diesel fumes, welding fumes and creosote. lung cancer lawsuit from smoking for railroads should be consulted as quickly as is possible by railroad employees who have been diagnosed as having cancer as a result of exposure to radiation on the job. They can assist them in determining if there is a claim against the former employer and file the appropriate lawsuits in accordance with FELA. These claims could include compensation for medical expenses or loss of income, as well as pain and suffering. They may also seek compensation for the loss of a loved one through the event of wrongful death. An experienced railroad lawyer can help victims receive the full amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.FELARailroad workers such as engineers conductors, and train crew members are often exposed to hazardous conditions that can harm lungs without even realizing it. If a former railroad employee is suffering from an illness such as lung cancer or a different condition which could be linked to their work, they may be able to seek compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).In contrast to claims for workers' compensation, FELA allows injured railroad employees and families of deceased employees to pursue claims for damages, including past and future emotional suffering and medical expenses. An attorney familiar with FELA regulations could explain to you your options.To prevail in a FELA lawsuit, you will need to prove that your employer acted negligently in a manner. The definition of negligence can include breaking a law or rule, failing to meet the standard of reasonable care and more. A FELA lawyer can review your case and determine if railroad negligence was a factor in your illness.Railroad exposure can cause a variety of lung illnesses. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust creosote or other toxins during your employment on the railroad and you are a mesothelioma patient, a certified attorney can assist you in filing for compensation under FELA. Colon cancer lawsuit handled by Hughes Law Offices in the past have resulted into a variety of verdicts and settlements.