The personal injury law firm of Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp is proud to announce that Richard N. (Rick) Shapiro has been selected as a recipient of the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) 2023 President’s Award. Although many nominations were submitted from across the country, Rick was just one of eight attorneys chosen by the prestigious National Board which certifies […]
Rick Shapiro Selected as a 2023 President’s Award Winner by the National Board of Trial Advocacy
Factors That Could Impact Your Railroad Cancer Settlement
Under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, any railway worker who is diagnosed with an illness resulting from workplace exposure is eligible to file a lawsuit against their employer. According to FELA, railway employees are entitled to recover compensation for an occupational illness, such as cancer, if they can prove that it, in any measure, was caused by the rail company’s […]
Facts vs. Myths About Filing a FELA Claim
Understanding the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) and the process of filing a claim is crucial for railroad workers seeking compensation for workplace injuries. However, misconceptions can cloud judgment and deter individuals from pursuing legitimate claims. In this article, our FELA lawyers dispel common myths and provide factual insights to help you navigate the FELA claims process effectively. MYTH: FELA […]
Workers’ Compensation vs FELA: Is There a Difference?
In the United States, most workers are covered by insurance that compensates them for any work-related injuries. Most companies that cover their workers for on-the-job illnesses or injuries carry workers’ compensation insurance. The railroad industry has its own path for workers to receive financial compensation for these illnesses or injuries called the Federal Employers Liability Act. Are FELA and workers’ […]
Railroad Workers and Back Injuries
Back injuries are one of the most frequent injuries sustained by railway workers. Your back consists of a mass of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that make it possible for you to lift heavy objects and bend over. Back injuries, such as strains, sprains, fractures, and herniated discs, can be caused by stretching, lifting, and over-extending your spine. While they […]
What Are the Most Common Dangers Faced by Railway Workers?
With the growing prevalence of online shopping and two-day shipping, it is not hard to overlook how important railroads are to keeping the United States running smoothly. Without railways and the workers who maintain and operate them, our country’s economy would bottom out, as gigantic industries such as manufacturing and agriculture would not get their shipments. What are some of […]
What Is a Defense Medical Examination?
More commonly referred to as a DME, a defense medical examination is the physical examination of an injured railway worker, conducted by a physician of the rail company’s choosing for the purpose of helping them defend themselves against your claim. How do I prepare for a defense medical examination? You may also hear this exam called an IME, an independent […]
Defenses Commonly Used in FELA Liability Cases
Under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, railroads have to provide a working environment that is reasonably safe. This involves supplying safe tools, machinery, and equipment and following all recognized safety protocols and safe working methods. What defense tactics am I likely to encounter in my FELA claim? Although this is the law, it is not always the case. In court, […]
Higher Instances of Cancer Among Railroad Track Workers
If you are a railroad worker who was diagnosed with lung cancer or another form of cancer, your line of employment could have been the cause of your disease. Railway employees are diagnosed with cancer at a rate that outpaces most other professions. Unfortunately, this potential risk is not made known to those on the job. Due to this, several […]
Is My Employer Liable for an Equipment Malfunction?
Most railroad employees come into contact with multiple pieces of huge equipment and heavy machinery every day. They know that if these machines are used improperly, they are at risk of being seriously injured. When a piece of equipment malfunctions, however, a worker could still be seriously injured even if they took every required precaution. When is an equipment malfunction […]