FELA and Railroad LawsuitsPeople exposed to harmful chemicals like diesel exhaust, coal fumes or asbestos may develop serious illnesses including cancer. A successful FELA claim can award damages that cover medical expenses, loss of income suffering and more.Union Pacific recently awarded $7.5 Million to an employee of the railroad who contracted Leukemia. This is just one illustration of how the justice system stands up for the victims.BenzeneRailroad workers are frequently exposed to dangerous substances and chemical solvents, which include benzene. Benzene, a highly-evaporative liquid is absorbed by the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a variety of medical illnesses, including cancer, blood cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia, as well as bone marrow disease. It is also a cancer-causing agent and a component of coal tar creosote, which is used to shield railroad ties from heat, sunlight rain, and snow.A former railroad worker claimed his exposure to benzene when working with coal tar creosote railroad ties triggered Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which progressed into Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury handed him $7.5 million in September.People who have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illnesses that result from exposure to asbestos, benzene radioactive substances and other harmful chemicals can make a claim for compensation under FELA. The time limit for filing a claim can vary depending on the type and severity of the cancer or illness. It is essential to consult an experienced attorney immediately.Shaw Cowart's railroad attorneys can assist you in determining whether your case is a candidate to be an FELA lawsuit. We offer no-cost consultations, and we are familiar with FELA and railroad workplaces.AsbestosOur attorneys have represented railroad workers who developed 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 contained asbestos insulation that was becoming degraded. This type of asbestos could be extremely hazardous, as when it is degraded, tiny fibers are released in the air. These fibers are inhaled by railroad employees and can cause mesothelioma and lung cancer, asbestosis, and the pleural plaque.In addition to asbestos railroad workers are at high risk for developing lung diseases from diesel exhaust and exposure to other workplace toxins such as solvents, welding fumes and silica sand. These fumes can cause harm to the kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal tract. These injuries are often identified several years after the initial exposure and can cause many serious and debilitating medical conditions.A recent case involving Conrail highlights the risks associated with this type of work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against Conrail in respect of an ex-railway worker who died from mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages for his pain and suffering, loss of companionship, future medical costs and other expenses. The case underscores the importance of working with an experienced lawyer who can quickly assess whether a FELA claim is warranted.Radioactive SubstancesRailroad workers 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 that railroads employ to clean tracks and other rail yards. It is often difficult to detect them unless the railroad's company examines for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railway worker develops cancer or another illness caused through exposure to carcinogenic substances at work, he may apply for a FELA and receive compensation from the former employer.Research has proven that railroad workers are much more likely to develop various cancers than other people. They are constantly exposed toxic substances that can cause lung cancer. cancer lawsuit are exposed to asbestos or sand (silica) welding fumes, or diesel fumes.Railroad employees who have been diagnosed with cancer as the consequence of exposure to the workplace should consult an attorney from the railroad as soon as possible. They can help them determine if there is a claim against the former employer and pursue the appropriate lawsuits, based on FELA. These claims can include compensation for medical expenses loss of income, pain and discomfort. Additionally, railroad lawsuit may compensate for the loss of a loved ones in the event of wrongful death. A railroad lawyer with experience will assist victims to receive the maximum amount of damages that they are entitled to, under FELA.FELARailroad workers such as engineers conductors, and train crew members are often in dangerous environments that can harm lungs without even realizing it. If a former railroad worker is suffering from an illness such as lung cancer or another disease that could be related to their work it is possible to seek compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).As opposed to workers' compensation claims, FELA allows injured railroad employees and their families of deceased employees to file lawsuits for damages that include future and past medical expenses and emotional suffering. A lawyer familiar with regulations under FELA can explain your options to file.To win a FELA lawsuit, you will be required to prove that your employer acted in a negligent manner. Negligence may involve breaking a rule or law or failing to adhere to an acceptable standard of care, and many more. A skilled FELA lawyer can review your case to determine whether negligence on the part of the railroad caused your condition.Railroad exposure can trigger a variety of lung diseases. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust creosote or any other toxic substances during your work on the railroad and you are a mesothelioma patient, a certified attorney will assist you in claiming compensation under FELA. The FELA cases handled by Hughes Law Offices in the past have led to a variety of settlements and verdicts.