Anyone can be hurt on the railroad at any time. Whether you work as a track worker, a trainman, a clerk, or a shop worker, railroads are dangerous places, and injuries are common. In almost any other industry, a hurt worker turns to a state workers’ compensation program that covers medical bills and part of their lost income. Railroad workers […]
Which Railroad Jobs Are the Most Dangerous?
Railroad Workers High Risk of Mesothelioma from Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related cancer that usually affects the protective lining of the lungs or abdomen. Inhaling or swallowing airborne asbestos is the number one cause of mesothelioma over a long period of time. People who have been diagnosed with this form of cancer should contact an experienced Virginia railroad injury attorney to explore what legal options they may have. […]
What Hazardous Chemical Solvents Are Railroad Workers Commonly Exposed To?
Railroads are hazardous working environments. Every day, employees are in danger of being seriously injured by derailments, being struck by trains, using poorly maintained equipment, and slip-and-falls. Those who are employed by major railway companies like Union Pacific, CSX, or Norfolk Southern are also routinely exposed to toxic chemicals and substances that can cause permanent damage to their health and […]
What Types of Injuries Does FELA Cover?
In 1908, the United States Congress enacted the Federal Employers Liability Act. The goal was to lessen the atrocious number of fatalities and injuries that were taking place within the railroad industry. FELA was intended to protect railway employees, force rail companies to implement safety measures to protect their workers, and compensate workers who were injured on the job. Railroad […]
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’ […]
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 […]
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 […]
How Do I Choose a FELA Attorney After a Train Accident?
If you are employed by a railroad company, then you are already aware that your industry is the backbone of the United States transportation system. Unfortunately, you probably are also aware of how dangerous your job can be. It is a hard and essential job, but unfortunately, many workers risk their health and wellness every day to make sure it […]
Are Railroads Required to Obey OSHA?
In specific situations, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has jurisdiction over health and safety issues in railroad workplaces. Starting in 1978, the Federal Railroad Administration has acknowledged that OSHA’s proficiency in job site safety pertains to the railway industry. What government agency is in charge of railroad safety requirements? The Virginia railroad injury lawyers at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp […]
Negligence Standards and Your FELA Claim
Due to the inherently dangerous nature of railroad work, railway employees face numerous hazards on a regular basis. It is important to recognize that not every injury is the result of occupational hazards. In a lot of cases, if your employer acted negligently, you are probably entitled to collect financial compensation. If you sustained an injury during the course and […]