Railroad workers face many dangers on the job due to unsafe work conditions. One of the most common types of exposure that railroad workers face is exposure to high amounts of carcinogenic substances, such as benzene, creosote, and asbestos, which can cause cancer or develop into another type of serious illness.
If you or someone you know have suffered an injury while working in the railroad industry, the attorneys at 1-800-LAW-HELP are here to help. Please call our office at 1-800-LAW-HELP, or fill out the FREE Case Review form, and our office will contact you to discuss your case.
Railroad workers are exposed to high levels of harmful contaminants that can lead to the development of respiratory problems and certain forms of cancer.
There are two types of contaminations that can affect railroad workers: direct contamination associated with direct railroad work, and residual contamination associated with the goods carried in passing freight cars.
Types of contaminants railroad workers may be exposed to include, but are not limited to:
- Creosote found in railroad ties
- Oil, gasoline, and other petroleum fuels
- Benzene
- Cleaning solvents
- Herbicides like Roundup or Paraquat
- Fossil fuel products
- Asbestos
- Toxic fumes from fuels or solvents
- Certain harmful metals
This environment puts workers at an elevated risk for injuries that could lead to permanent damage, even if the exposure is minimal.
Workers diagnosed with injuries or health conditions directly associated with railroad hazards may be eligible to file a FELA lawsuit—which may include compensation for the costs associated with treatment and the impact these damages have on an individual’s quality of life and ability to continue to work. To become eligible for a FELA claim, workers must demonstrate that:
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The railroad failed to exercise due care under the existing circumstances; or
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The railroad failed to act as a reasonable and prudent person/entity would ordinarily have acted under the existing circumstances; or
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The railroad acted in a manner contrary to how a reasonable person/entity would have acted under the existing circumstances.
Cancer is one of the most prevalent occupational diseases among railroad workers and it can lead to permanent disability, great pain and suffering, and even death. It can be preventable if the railroad company simply adheres to governmental regulations and takes precaution to provide a safe workplace. Tragically, many railroaders not only develop this devastating disease through occupational exposure, they also go uncompensated
We are currently evaluating potential claims by injured individuals that may fall within a FELA claim. Previously, compensation had been provided under a FELA claim for injuries such as:
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If you worked in the railroad industry and were diagnosed with cancer or another type of chronic condition due to on-the-job exposure, you have the right to speak with an attorney about your legal options for filing a claim. Please call our office at 1-800-LAW-HELP, or fill out the FREE Case Review form, and our office will contact you to discuss your case.