FELA and Railroad LawsuitsPeople exposed to toxic chemicals such as diesel exhaust, coal fumes or asbestos could be diagnosed with serious illnesses like cancer. A successful FELA claim can award damages to pay medical expenses, income loss as well as pain and suffering.Union Pacific recently awarded $7.5 Million to an employee of the railroad who contracted Leukemia. This is only one illustration of how the justice system is standing up for victims.BenzeneRailroad workers are often exposed to dangerous substances and chemical solvents, such as benzene. Benzene is a highly evaporative liquid that is absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It is associated with several medical conditions like cancer blood-related cancers, such as Lymphoma and Leukemia, and bone-marrow diseases. It is also a cancer-causing agent and is a component of coal creosote. It is used to protect railroad ties from heat, sunlight, rain and snow.A former rail worker claimed that his exposure to benzene when working with coal tar creosote on railroad ties resulted in Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which progressed into Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury awarded him $7.5 million in September.Those who have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic diseases due to exposure to radioactive substances benzene asbestos, and other hazardous chemicals, are entitled to claim compensation under FELA. The time period for filing claims can vary depending on the type and degree of cancer or illness. It is crucial to seek out an experienced lawyer immediately.A railroad attorney from Shaw Cowart can help you determine if your case is eligible for a FELA claim. We offer free consultations and are familiar with FELA and railroad workplaces as well as the cancer-causing chemicals railroad employees face on a daily basis.AsbestosOur lawyers have represented railroad workers who developed lung cancer and other health conditions due to asbestos exposure. They frequently worked in areas such as repair shops, engine rooms, and yards or on rail cars with derailments or on track equipment that had asbestos insulation that was deteriorating. This type of asbestos can be particularly hazardous, since when it degrades, tiny fibers are released into the air. The fibers are breathed in by railway workers and may cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural plaque.In addition to asbestos railroad workers are at risk of developing lung diseases from diesel exhaust as well as exposure to other workplace toxins such as solvents, welding fumes and silica sand. These fumes can cause damage to the lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract. These injuries are often identified many years after an employee's initial exposure and can cause several severe and debilitating medical conditions. acute myeloid leukemia lawsuit involving Conrail exposes the dangers associated with this kind of work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against Conrail, the railroad company, in respect of an ex-railway worker who passed away from mesothelioma. A jury awarded damages for his suffering and pain, loss of companionship, future medical expenses and other expenses. The case underscores the importance of working with a seasoned lawyer who can quickly assess whether a FELA claim is legitimate.Radioactive SubstancesRailroad workers exposed to radioactive substances are at risk of developing certain types of cancers as well as other serious diseases. These substances are usually hidden in the materials used by railroads to clean tracks and other rail yards. They can be difficult to spot unless the railroad company is actively testing them for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad employee develops cancer or another illness caused by exposure to carcinogenic materials while on the job, he is able to file an FELA and receive compensation from the former employer.Railroad workers are more likely than other people to develop cancer. They are exposed to the toxins that can cause lung cancer. They are exposed to asbestos or sand (silica) and welding fumes and diesel.Railroad employees who have been diagnosed with cancer as a result of on-the-job exposure should consult an attorney for railroads as soon as possible. They can help them determine whether they have a legal claim against their former employers and file the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. These lawsuits could result in reimbursement for medical expenses, income loss, and discomfort and pain. In addition, they could compensate for the loss of a loved one's life in the event of wrongful death. railroad workers cancer lawsuit can help victims get the maximum amount of compensation they are entitled to under FELA.FELARailroad workers, such as engineers, conductors and train crew members are often exposed to hazardous conditions that can damage lungs without realizing it. If a former railroad worker has developed an illness like lung cancer or another condition that could be connected 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 the families of deceased employees to file lawsuits for damages that include future and past emotional suffering and medical expenses. An attorney knowledgeable of FELA regulations can explain to you the options.To be successful in a FELA claim you must prove that your employer was negligent. The definition of negligence can be as simple as breaking a rule or law and not meeting the acceptable standards of care, and much more. pulmonary fibrosis lawsuit can evaluate your case to determine whether negligence on the part of the railroad played a role in causing your condition.Several different types of lung diseases and illnesses can be linked to railroad exposures. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust creosote or any other toxic substances during your work on the railroad, a mesothelioma lawyer who is experienced can help you file for compensation under FELA. Hughes Law Offices has handled FELA cases in the past, and have resulted a variety of verdicts and settlements.