FELA and Railroad LawsuitsRailroad workers exposed to harmful chemicals such as coal fumes diesel exhaust benzene or asbestos are at risk of developing serious illness like cancer. A successful FELA claim could provide compensation for medical expenses loss of income suffering and more.A railroad worker who contracted leukemia has been awarded $7.5 million from Union Pacific. This is only one instance of how the justice system is standing up for victims.BenzeneRailroad workers are frequently exposed to hazardous substances and chemical solvents, which include benzene. The evaporation rate of benzene is high. liquid that can be absorbed by the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a range of medical illnesses, including cancer, blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, as well as bone marrow disease. It is also a carcinogen, and is a component of coal creosote. It's used to protect railroad tracks from heat, sunlight snow, rain and sun.A former railway worker claimed that exposure to benzene while working with coal-tar creosote in order to create railroad ties, led to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. BNSF Railway lawsuit progressed to Acute Myeloid leukemia. A jury handed the man $7.5 million in September last year.If you have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illnesses because of exposure to benzene asbestos radioactive substances as well as other hazardous chemicals, have the right to claim compensation under FELA. Depending on the type of cancer or illness the statute of limitations may vary, so it is important to consult a seasoned lawyer as soon as is possible.A railroad lawyer at Shaw Cowart can help you determine whether your case is a valid FELA claim. We offer no-cost consultations and are familiar with FELA railway workplaces, FELA and the dangerous cancer-causing substances many railroad employees are exposed to every day.AsbestosOur lawyers have represented railroad employees who were diagnosed with lung cancer or other health conditions as a result of asbestos exposure. They worked in places like repair shops, engine room and yards, or on track equipment or derailed rail cars that had asbestos insulation. This kind of asbestos is particularly hazardous since, when it begins to degrade tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers are inhaled by workers on railroads and can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and the pleural plaque.In addition to asbestos railroad workers are at high risk for developing lung diseases due to diesel exhaust as well as exposure to other workplace toxics such as solvents, welding fumes and silica sand. These fumes can cause damage to the lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract. These injuries are often diagnosed after years of exposure and can lead to various severe and debilitating medical conditions.The recent case against Conrail shows the dangers associated with this type of work. The Appeals Court upheld a jury award of $2.3 million to the railroad company for a former railway employee who died from mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages for suffering and pain, as well as loss of companionship, future medical expenses and other losses. This case emphasizes the importance of working closely with an experienced lawyer who can quickly determine whether an FELA claim is justified.Radioactive SubstancesWorkers exposed to radioactive substances may develop cancers or other serious diseases. BNSF Railway lawsuit are often concealed in the materials used by railroads to clean tracks and other rail yards. It can be difficult to detect them unless the railroad company actively examines for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad worker develops cancer or another illness caused by exposure to carcinogenic chemicals on the job, he can make a FELA and receive compensation from the company he worked for previously.Railroad workers are more prone than other workers to develop cancer. They are constantly exposed to toxins which can cause lung cancer. These include asbestos or sand (silica) as well as welding fumes, or diesel fumes. BNSF Railway lawsuit for railroads is recommended to be consulted as soon as possible by railroad workers who are diagnosed with cancer as a result of exposure to radiation during their work. They can help them determine whether they have a legal claim against their former employers and make the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. These claims can be based on the payment of medical expenses and income loss as well as suffering and pain. Additionally, they may pay for the loss of a loved one's life in a wrongful death claim. union pacific railroad lawsuits can help victims get the full amount of the damages they are entitled to, under FELA. csx railroad lawsuit , engineers, and train crew members work in hazardous environments where they could damage their lungs and not even realize it. If a former railroad worker has developed an illness like lung cancer or a different condition that could be connected to their work, they may be able to file for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).Unlike workers' compensation, FELA allows railroad workers who have been injured to sue. This includes future and past medical costs and emotional suffering. An attorney who is familiar with the rules of FELA could explain your options for filing.In order to win a FELA lawsuit, you will have to prove that your employer acted in a negligent manner. The definition of negligence can include breaking a law or rule, failing to meet an acceptable standard of care and more. A knowledgeable FELA lawyer can review your case to determine whether negligence by the railroad contributed to your illness.Many different lung diseases and illnesses could be attributed to exposures from railroads. If you were exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust, creosote or any other toxic substances during your time working on the railroad, a qualified mesothelioma attorney can help you file for compensation under FELA. Hughes Law Offices has handled FELA cases in the past, and have led to a variety of settlements and verdicts.