Revision as of 00:51, 10 June 2023 by 31.132.1.133 (talk) (Created page with "FELA and Railroad Lawsuits<br /><br />People exposed to toxic chemicals, such as diesel exhaust, coal fumes or asbestos can develop serious illnesses including cancer. A succe...")(diff) ← Older revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)FELA and Railroad LawsuitsPeople exposed to toxic chemicals, such as diesel exhaust, coal fumes or asbestos can develop serious illnesses including cancer. A successful FELA claim could award damages that cover medical expenses, income loss pain suffering and more.A railroad worker who contracted leukemia has been awarded $7.5 million from Union Pacific. This is just one illustration of how the justice system is standing up for the victims.BenzeneRailroad workers are frequently exposed to hazardous substances and chemical solvents, including benzene. It is a highly evaporated liquid which can be absorbed via the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a range of medical illnesses, including cancer, blood cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia, as well as bone marrow diseases. It can also be a cancer-causing agent and a constituent in coal tar creosote, which is used to protect railroad tie from heat, sunlight and rain.A former rail worker claimed that his exposure to benzene, while working with coal-tar creosote to create railroad ties, contributed to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury handed him $7.5 million in September.People who have been diagnosed as having cancer or other chronic diseases due to exposure to benzene asbestos radioactive substances and other toxic chemicals, have the right to claim compensation under FELA. The time limit for filing a claim can vary depending on the type and severity of the cancer or disease. It is crucial to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as you can.A railroad lawyer at Shaw Cowart can help you determine if your case is eligible for a FELA claim. We offer no-cost consultations, and we are familiar with FELA and railroad workplaces.AsbestosOur lawyers have represented railroad workers who contracted lung cancer and other health conditions due to asbestos exposure. They frequently worked in areas such as repair shops, engine rooms, and yards, on derailed rail cars or on track equipment that had asbestos insulation that was deteriorating. This type of asbestos is especially dangerous because, when it gets deteriorated tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers could be inhaled by railroad workers and can cause mesothelioma along with other asbestos-related health conditions 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 and particles can cause damage to the kidneys, lungs, gastrointestinal tract and blood cells. These injuries are usually discovered several years after the initial exposure and can result in many serious and debilitating medical conditions.A recent case against Conrail exposes the dangers of this type of work. The Appeals Court upheld a jury award of $2.3 million to the railroad company in respect of an employee of the railroad who passed away from mesothelioma. A jury awarded damages to compensate for pain and suffering and companionship loss, as well as future medical expenses, and other losses. This case emphasizes the importance of working closely with an experienced attorney that can quickly determine if a FELA claim is warranted.Radioactive SubstancesWorkers exposed to radioactive substances may develop cancers or other serious ailments. These substances are often concealed in the materials railroads use to clean tracks and other rail yards. It can be difficult to identify them unless the railroad company examines for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad worker develops cancer or another ailment caused by exposure to carcinogenic chemicals on the job, he is able to file a FELA and receive compensation from the company he worked for previously.Research has shown that railway workers are more likely to develop various types of cancer than other people. This is because they are constantly exposed to chemicals that can cause lung cancer, such as asbestos as well as Sand dust (silica) as well as diesel fumes, welding fumes and creosote.A railroad lawyer should be consulted as quickly as is possible by railroad employees who have been diagnosed as having cancer as a result of exposure during their work. They can assist them in determining if they have a claim against their former employers and submit the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. These claims can include compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and discomfort. They may also seek compensation for the death of a loved one through an wrongful-death case. A railroad attorney with experience can help victims get the full amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.FELAConductors, engineers, and train crew members work in dangerous situations where they may damage their lungs and not even realize it. Former railroad workers who developed lung cancer or any other condition that could be caused by their work can seek compensation under Federal Employers Liability (FELA).As opposed to workers' compensation claims, FELA allows injured railroad employees and the families of deceased employees to seek damages for future and past emotional and medical expenses. A lawyer who is familiar with rules under FELA can explain your options for filing.To win a FELA lawsuit, you'll have to prove that your employer acted in a negligent manner. Negligence may involve breaking a rule or law, failing to meet the reasonable standards of care, and so on. A knowledgeable FELA lawyer could review your case to determine whether the railroad's negligence contributed to your condition.Railroad exposure can lead to a variety of lung diseases. If you were exposed during your railroad career to diesel exhaust or other toxins like asbestos, creosote, or creosote, a mesothelioma lawyer can assist you in filing claims for compensation under the FELA. class action lawsuit for lung cancer has handled FELA cases in the past, and have led to a variety of settlements and verdicts.