If you work on the rails, you are in one of the most dangerous professions in America. And this might surprise you – federal law and not state law can govern how much money you get for your injuries.
Here is what you need to know: The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) says that railroad workers must be compensated if employers are negligent. You can receive both back pay and future pay plus money for losses such as pain and suffering.
I have helped railroad workers for several years, and their injuries can be catastrophic. For example:
- Loss of Limb – can include amputation or loss of mobility resulting in forced early retirement or career changes.
- Disfigurement – can include scars, discoloration, and partial healing.
- Crash Results – often like car accidents but with literally tons of increased metal injuring you.
- Electrocution – can happen despite safety equipment and safety procedures.
- Burns – can include explosions, engine fires, hose ruptures, and hot surfaces.
- Back/Neck Problems – often caused by lifting heavyweight.
- Broken Bones – can include slip and fall accidents on wet or oily flooring plus injuries from walking on ballast.
Here is one shocking statistic. Railroad workers are roughly 2x more likely to die on the job than the average worker. Yes, twice as likely to die. This is not just for the men and women who work on the track or in the repair and maintenance facilities.
Railroad work is just plain dangerous whether you are a signaler, laborer, conductor, engineer, mechanic, and other train-related employee.
If you suffer a personal injury like a railroad/auto accident, or slip and fall, you can talk to us at the Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie for free. We want to help you get back on your feet.
Also, join us on NBC 15 LawCall here in Mobile every Sunday night at 10:30, right after the news. We will take your calls live.
Allen Ritchie
Alabama Personal Injury Lawyer