FELA and Railroad LawsuitsRailroad workers exposed to toxic chemicals like diesel exhaust fumes, coal vapors, benzene or asbestos are at risk of developing a serious illness like cancer. A successful FELA claim could award damages that cover 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 just one example of how the justice system defends for the victims.BenzeneRailroad workers often work with chemical solvents and other hazardous materials, including benzene. It is a highly evaporated liquid that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It has been linked to a range of medical conditions, including blood cancers, cancers of the blood like lymphoma and leukemia, as well as bone marrow diseases. It is also a carcinogen and an ingredient in coal tar creosote, a substance used to shield railroad ties from heat, sunlight snow, rain and sun.A former railroad worker claimed that exposure to benzene while working with coal-tar creosote to create railroad ties, lead to Myelodysplastic Syndrome. This progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury handed the man $7.5 million in September of the year before.Anyone diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illnesses that result from exposure to benzene, asbestos radioactive substances and other harmful chemicals have the right to seek compensation under FELA. Depending on the type of cancer or illness the statute of limitation will vary, therefore it is imperative to speak with a skilled lawyer as soon as possible. pulmonary fibrosis lawsuit can assist you in determining if your case is a candidate to be an FELA lawsuit. We provide no-cost consultations and are familiar with FELA as well as railroad workplaces and the harmful cancer-causing chemicals that railroad employees face every day.AsbestosOur attorneys have represented railroad workers who developed lung cancer or other health conditions as a result of asbestos exposure. They often worked in areas like repair shops, engine rooms and yards as well as on rail cars that were damaged or on track equipment that was deteriorating asbestos insulation. This kind of asbestos is particularly dangerous because, when it deteriorates tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers could be inhaled by railroad workers and can cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis, pleural plaque and fibrosis.In addition to asbestos, railroad workers are also at risk of developing lung diseases due to diesel exhaust as well as exposure to other workplace toxics such as solvents, welding fumes and silica sand. The particles and fumes that are emitted from these workplaces can harm the kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal tract, as well as blood cells. These injuries are often identified after years of exposure, and can lead to many grave and debilitating health conditions.A recent case against Conrail highlights the dangers associated with this kind of work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against the railroad company in respect of a former railway worker who died of mesothelioma. A jury awarded damages for his pain and suffering, loss of companionship, future medical costs and other losses. This case highlights the importance of working closely with an experienced attorney that can quickly determine whether an FELA claim is justified.Radioactive SubstancesRailroad workers who have been exposed to radioactive substances are at risk for developing certain types of cancers and other serious diseases. The substances are usually hidden in the materials that railroads use to clean tracks and other rail yards. It is often difficult to recognize 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 materials during their work, they can submit a FELA and receive compensation from his former employer.Railroad workers are more prone than others to develop cancers. They are constantly exposed to toxins which can cause lung cancer. These include asbestos and sand (silica) as well as diesel fumes or welding fumes.A railroad lawyer is recommended to be consulted as soon as is possible by railroad employees who are diagnosed with cancer as a result of exposure during their work. They can assist them in determining whether they have a legal claim against their former employers and initiate the appropriate lawsuits in accordance with FELA. These claims may include compensation for medical expenses income loss, and pain and discomfort. They also can compensate for the death of a loved one through the case of wrongful death. An experienced railroad attorney will assist victims to receive the full amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.FELARailroad workers such as engineers, conductors and other members of the train crew are often in dangerous environments that can damage lungs without realizing it. If a former railroad employee has developed an illness like lung cancer or a different condition that could be connected to their work and work, they could be eligible to file for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).Contrary to workers' compensation FELA allows railroad employees who are injured to sue. This includes past and future medical costs and emotional suffering. A lawyer familiar with the rules under FELA could provide you with options to file.In order to win a FELA lawsuit, you'll be required to prove that your employer acted negligently in a way. It could be a matter of breaking a law or rule, failing to meet an acceptable standard of care, and many more. A knowledgeable FELA lawyer can review your case to determine whether negligence on the part of the railroad was a factor in the triggering of your illness.Many different lung diseases and illnesses could be linked to exposures to the railroad. If you were exposed during your railroad work to diesel exhaust or other toxins like creosote, asbestos, or creosote, a mesothelioma lawyer can help you file an action for compensation under the FELA. Hughes Law Offices has handled FELA cases in the past, and they have led to a variety of settlements and verdicts.