FELA and Railroad LawsuitsRailroad workers who are exposed to toxic chemicals like diesel exhaust benzene, coal fumes or asbestos are at risk of developing serious illness, including cancer. A successful FELA claim could be awarded damages to cover medical expenses, loss of income discomfort and more.Union Pacific recently awarded $7.5 Million to one of its railroad workers who was diagnosed with Leukemia. This is only one example of the justice system standing up for victims.BenzeneRailroad workers often work with chemical solvents as well as other hazardous substances, like benzene. It is a highly evaporated liquid that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It is associated with a number medical conditions including cancer blood-related cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma, and bone-marrow diseases. It is also a carcinogen, and part of coal tar creosote. It is used to shield railroad tracks from heat, sunlight snow, rain, and sunlight. union pacific railroad lawsuit claimed his exposure to benzene from working with coal tar creosote railroad ties caused Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which eventually developed into Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury handed him $7.5 million in September.If you 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. The statute of limitations may vary based upon the type and extent of the cancer or illness. It is crucial to consult an experienced attorney as soon as you can.Shaw Cowart's railroad lawyers will help you determine if your case is eligible to be an FELA lawsuit. We provide free consultations, and we're familiar with FELA and railroad workplaces.AsbestosOur attorneys have represented railroad workers who were diagnosed with lung cancer and other health conditions caused by asbestos exposure. Leukemia lawsuit worked in areas like repair shops, engine rooms, and yards and on rail cars that had been damaged or on track equipment with asbestos insulation that was becoming degraded. This type of asbestos could be extremely hazardous, as when it degrades, tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers could be inhaled by railroad workers and cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses such as lung cancer asbestosis as well as pleural plaques and fibrosis.In addition to asbestos railroad workers are at high risk for developing lung ailments due to diesel exhaust as well as exposure to other workplace toxics such as welding fumes, solvents and silica sand. These fumes can cause damage to the kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal tract. Leukemia lawsuit can be detected years after the initial exposure, and can cause to a myriad of serious and debilitating ailments.Recent case against Conrail exposes the risks associated with this type of work. The Appeals Court upheld a jury award of $2.3 million against the railroad company for an ex-railway employee who died from mesothelioma. A jury awarded damages to cover pain and suffering along with companionship loss, future medical expenses and other losses. The case highlights the importance of working with an experienced attorney who can quickly evaluate whether an FELA claim is justified.Radioactive SubstancesPeople who are exposed to radioactive substances could develop cancer or other serious ailments. These substances are typically hidden in the materials that railroads employ to clean tracks and other rail yards. It can be difficult to detect them unless the railroad company checks for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad employee is diagnosed with cancer or another disease due to exposure to carcinogenic chemicals on the job, they are able to make a FELA claim and receive compensation from their former employer.Railroad workers are more prone than other people to develop cancer. They are constantly exposed the toxins that can cause lung cancer. These include asbestos and silica (silica) as well as welding fumes and diesel.Railroad workers who have been diagnosed with cancer as a result of on-the-job exposure should speak to an attorney from the railroad as soon as is possible. They can assist them in determining whether they have a legal claim against their former employers and file the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. These claims can be based on compensation for medical costs, loss of income and suffering and pain. In addition, they can compensate for the loss of a loved one in the event of wrongful death. An experienced railroad attorney can help victims get the maximum amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.FELARailroad workers like engineers, conductors and train crew members are often in dangerous environments which can cause lung damage without even realizing it. Former railroad workers who developed lung cancer or any other condition which could be caused by their job may file for compensation under Federal Employers Liability (FELA).Contrary to workers' compensation FELA allows railroad workers who have been injured to file a lawsuit. This includes future and past medical costs and emotional suffering. A lawyer familiar with the rules under FELA could provide you with options for filing.To be successful in a FELA claim it is necessary to prove that your employer acted negligently. Negligence may involve breaking a rule or law, failing to meet an acceptable standard of care, and so on. A competent FELA lawyer can review your case to determine whether negligence by the railroad caused your condition.Railroad exposure can cause variety of lung diseases. If you were exposed to diesel exhaust, asbestos, creosote or other toxins during your career on the railroad, a mesothelioma lawyer who is experienced will assist you in claiming compensation under FELA. Hughes Law Offices has handled FELA cases in the past, and have led to a variety of verdicts and settlements.