Revision as of 01:38, 10 June 2023 by 77.75.126.138 (talk)(diff) ← Older revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)FELA and Railroad LawsuitsWorkers exposed to toxic chemicals such as diesel exhaust, coal fumes or asbestos may suffer from serious illnesses such as cancer. A successful FELA claim can be awarded damages to cover medical expenses, income loss pain suffering and more.A railroad worker suffering from leukemia recently received $7.5 million from Union Pacific. This is just one instance of the justice system standing up for victims.BenzeneRailroad workers are frequently exposed to hazardous substances and chemical solvents, such as benzene. It is a highly evaporative liquid can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a variety of medical diseases, such as blood cancers, cancers of the blood like lymphoma and leukemia, as well as bone marrow disease. It is also a carcinogen as well as an ingredient in coal tar creosote, which is used to protect railroad ties from sunlight, heat snow, rain and sun.A former rail worker claimed that his exposure to benzene from working with coal tar creosote on railroad ties led to Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which progressed into Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury gave him $7.5 million last September.People who have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illnesses that result from exposure to benzene, asbestos radioactive substances and other toxic chemicals are able to seek compensation under FELA. Depending on the kind of cancer or illness, the statute of limitations may vary, so it is essential to consult with a knowledgeable lawyer as soon as you can.A railroad attorney at Shaw Cowart can help you determine whether your case is eligible for a FELA claim. We offer free consultations, and we are familiar with FELA and railroad workplaces.AsbestosOur lawyers have represented railroad workers who developed lung cancer and other health conditions caused by asbestos exposure. They frequently worked in areas like repair shops, engine rooms and yards or on rail cars with derailments or track equipment that contained asbestos insulation that was degrading. This kind of asbestos is extremely dangerous since, when it begins to degrade, tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers can be inhaled by railroad workers and can cause mesothelioma along with other asbestos-related diseases including lung cancer, asbestosis, pleural plaque and fibrosis.Railroad workers are at the risk of developing lung disease due to diesel exhaust, silica sand and welding fumes. These fumes can cause harm to the kidneys, lungs and the gastrointestinal tract. These injuries are usually discovered after years of exposure and can result in several serious and debilitating medical conditions.Recent cases against Conrail shows the dangers that come with this type of work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against Conrail in the case of a former railway worker who was diagnosed with mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages to cover pain and suffering, companionship loss, future medical expenses, and other losses. This case highlights the importance of working closely with an experienced attorney who can quickly determine if an FELA claim is legitimate.Radioactive SubstancesRailroad workers who are exposed to radioactive substances are at risk of developing certain types of cancers and other serious illnesses. They are often concealed in the materials railroads use to clean tracks and other rail yards. It is often difficult to identify them unless the railroad company tests for Gamma and Alpha radiation. If a railroad employee is diagnosed with cancer or another condition due to exposure to carcinogenic substances on the job, they can submit an FELA claim and receive compensation from their former employer.Railroad workers are more likely than others to develop cancers. This is due to being constantly exposed to chemicals that can lead to lung cancers, such as asbestos and Sand dust (silica) as well as welding fumes, diesel fumes and creosote.Railroad employees who have been diagnosed with cancer as the result of exposure on the job should speak to a railroad lawyer as soon as is 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 can cover compensation for medical expenses, loss of income and suffering and pain. They also can compensate for the death of a loved one through the case of wrongful death. An experienced railroad attorney can help victims get the maximum amount of damages that they are entitled to, under FELA.FELAConductors, engineers and train crew members work in dangerous environments where they could damage their lungs, without even realizing it. Former railroad workers who develop lung cancer or any other condition that could have been caused by their job can apply for compensation under Federal Employers Liability (FELA).Unlike workers' compensation, FELA allows railroad employees who have been injured to sue. railroad workers cancer lawsuit includes future and past emotional and medical expenses. An attorney familiar with FELA regulations can explain to you your options.To prevail in a FELA lawsuit, you'll have to prove that your employer acted in a negligent manner. It could be a matter of breaking a rule or law and not meeting an acceptable standard of care, and much more. A FELA lawyer can look over your case and determine whether railroad negligence caused your illness.Several different types of lung diseases and illnesses could be attributed to exposures to railroads. If you were exposed during your railroad work to diesel exhaust or other toxins like creosote or asbestos creosote, a mesothelioma lawyer could assist you in filing a claim for compensation under the FELA. Hughes Law Offices has handled FELA cases in the past and have resulted a variety of verdicts and settlements.