FELA and Railroad Lawsuits
People who are exposed to toxic chemicals, such as coal fumes, diesel exhaust or asbestos may develop serious illnesses, including 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 example of the justice system standing up for victims.
Benzene
Railroad workers frequently work with chemical solvents, as well as other hazardous substances, like benzene. cancer lawsuit is a highly evaporated liquid that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. Bladder cancer lawsuit has been linked with a variety of medical conditions, including blood cancers, cancers of the blood like leukemia and lymphoma, as well as bone marrow disease. It can also be a cancer-causing agent and a component of coal tar creosote. It is used to protect railroad tie from sunlight, heat and rain.
One former rail worker claimed his exposure to benzene during his work with coal tar creosote on railroad ties led to Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which grew into Acute Myeloid Leukemia. A jury awarded the man $7.5 million in September last year.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illnesses because of their exposure to radioactive substances benzene asbestos and other toxic chemicals, have the right to claim compensation under FELA. Depending on the kind of cancer or illness the statute of limitations may vary, so it is important to consult a seasoned lawyer as soon as is possible.
Shaw Cowart's railroad attorneys can assist you in determining if your case is a candidate for an FELA lawsuit. We offer free consultations and are conversant with FELA railway workplaces, FELA and the harmful cancer-causing chemicals that railroad employees encounter on a daily basis.
Asbestos
Our attorneys have represented railroad employees who developed lung cancer or other health conditions as a result of asbestos exposure. They worked in places like repair shops, engine room and yards, as well as on track equipment or derailed railway cars that contained asbestos insulation. This kind of asbestos is particularly hazardous since, when it begins to degrade tiny fibers are released into air. The fibers are breathed in by railroad workers and could cause mesothelioma, lung cancer asbestosis, and pleural plaque.
In addition to asbestos railroad workers are at high risk for developing lung diseases due to diesel exhaust and exposure to other workplace toxins such as welding fumes, solvents and silica sand. These fumes and particles can harm the kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal tract as well as blood cells. These injuries can be identified years after the first exposure and can lead to debilitating and serious conditions.
A recent case involving Conrail highlights the dangers of this kind of work. The Appeals Court has upheld a jury verdict of $2.3million against Conrail, the railroad company, in respect of an ex-railway worker who died of mesothelioma. The jury awarded damages for suffering and suffering, loss of companionship, future medical expenses and other expenses. The case highlights the importance of working with an experienced lawyer who can quickly assess whether an FELA claim is warranted.
Radioactive Substances
Railroad workers who have been exposed to radioactive substances are at risk for developing certain types of cancers and other serious diseases. These substances are often concealed in the materials railroads employ to clean track and other rail yards. cancer lawsuit can be difficult to spot them unless the railroad company checks for alpha and Gamma radiation. If a railroad employee is diagnosed with cancer or another condition caused by exposure to carcinogenic substances while on the job, they can submit a FELA claim and receive compensation from their former employer.
Railroad workers are more prone than others to develop cancers. This is due to being constantly exposed to toxic substances that can lead to lung cancer, including asbestos and sand dust (silica) as well as welding fumes, diesel fumes, and creosote.
A lawyer for railroads is recommended to be consulted as soon as is possible by railroad employees who are diagnosed with cancer due to exposure during their work. They can help them determine whether they have a legal claim against their former employers and file the appropriate lawsuits under FELA. These claims could include reimbursement for medical expenses or loss of income, as well as suffering and pain. They also can compensate for the loss of a loved one as a wrongful-death claim. A skilled railroad attorney can assist victims receive the full amount of damages they are entitled to under FELA.
FELA
Railroad workers, such as engineers, conductors and other members of the train crew often work in hazardous environments that can harm lungs without realizing it. If a former railroad worker has contracted an illness, such as lung cancer or another illness which could be linked to their work or work, they may be eligible to seek compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).
Contrary to claims for workers' compensation, FELA allows injured railroad employees and their families of deceased employees to pursue claims for damages, including future and past emotional suffering and medical expenses. An attorney who is familiar with the regulations under FELA will be able to explain your options for filing.
In order to win a FELA lawsuit, you will need to prove that the employer acted negligently in a way. The definition of negligence can include breaking a law or rule or not meeting the standard of reasonable care, and so on. A FELA lawyer can evaluate your case and determine if railroad negligence was the cause of your condition.
Railroad exposure can trigger a variety of lung diseases. If you were exposed during your railroad career to diesel exhaust or other toxins such as asbestos, creosote, or creosote, a mesothelioma lawyer will help you file an action for compensation under the FELA. The FELA cases handled by Hughes Law Offices have resulted in a variety of settlements and verdicts.