Railroad Settlement Leukemia
Railroad workers transport 30 million people and move 1.6 billion tons of freight each year. These employees are often exposed to harmful chemicals that can cause serious health problems and even death.
A railyard cancer lawyer can help injured workers file an claim for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act. FELA allows railroad workers, both active and former, to sue their employers in the event that they were negligent in causing cancer or other health issues.
FELA
The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) is a law which allows railroad employees and their families to file a lawsuit against their employers if injured on the job. In contrast to workers' compensation, which does not require an employee to prove negligence on the part of the employer, FELA claims are based on the notion that railroads must provide safe working conditions for their employees, and also train workers on how to operate in a safe way.
This includes providing the appropriate training, maintenance of property, tools and other equipment that is safe. If the railroad does not comply with this requirement employees may be exposed to carcinogenic and risky materials that cause serious injuries or illnesses. Colon cancer lawsuit settlements who are injured and their families can recover damages for lost wages, past and future emotional distress, medical expenses and pain and suffering.
Railroad exposure can cause a variety of diseases and injuries, including mesothelioma cancer, lung cancer, leukemia and multiple myeloma. Moreover, many railroad workers have suffered from occupational diseases which can worsen existing conditions like fibromyalgia and spinal injuries.
The railroad industry has exposed countless families to hazardous chemicals every day. Fortunately, New York railroad injury lawyers can help injured workers and their families to file FELA claims to receive financial compensation for medical expenses and other expenses. This compensation isn't enough to repair the harm, but it can help ease your concerns and offer some justice.
Statute of Limitations
Railroad workers who are suffering with cancer, kidney disease or any other illness resulting from years of exposure to toxic fumes or chemicals should consult an experienced lawyer for railroads immediately. Federal law affords these workers the right of compensation, even if they develop disease in the years or years following their last railroad employment.
James Brown, a railroad worker, was awarded $7.5M in damages for acquiring acute myeloid lymphoma (AML) after exposure to chemicals while working for Chicago & North Western Railway Co. and Union Pacific Railroad Co. for a period of 18 and 13 years. Brown's job duties included washing rail ties and putting them up and he had to wear dirty clothes that allowed the chemicals, like creosote, a substance that soaked into his skin.
The FELA statute of limitations for cases like this is the discovery rule, which states that the three year clock doesn't start until the railroad employee is aware or reasonably should be aware that their illness is a result of work. This is one of the reasons railroad employees should consult an experienced railroad cancer lawyer immediately.
In addition to a possible settlement by railroad for leukemia, the victims may claim compensation for future and past lost wages, medical expenses that insurance does not cover, pain and suffering and loss of consortium. A knowledgeable mesothelioma lawyer is able to provide a free consultation and review of the case.
Pre-existing Conditions
Every year, railroads carry 30 million travelers and 1.6 billion tons of freight, which includes cars, trucks and chemicals grains automobiles, wood products, metal ore, food, lumber, and other products. However railroad workers are exposed to various carcinogens and toxic chemicals which put them at risk of developing life-threatening illnesses like leukemia.
union pacific settlements have been exposed over the years to toxic substances such as creosote, asbestos, and diesel exhaust. Many have worked in places where diesel-powered forklifts, locomotives and cranes are constantly operating and releasing fumes to linger in the work areas. Workers also dipped clean rags in solvents containing benzene, to clean tools and parts.
Railroad workers are at a greater risk of developing lung diseases such as COPD. This can cause heart attacks and strokes, or even cancer. Smoking cigarettes can also cause respiratory diseases and make a person more prone to lung cancer.
If you have an existing health issue, it's crucial to be upfront with your lawyer. The insurance company is going to ask about your medical history, and if insincere with them or conceal information from them, it could affect the amount you receive in a settlement. If union pacific settlements are honest with your lawyer, you will be able answer all of their questions and keep them from uncovering any information that could be detrimental to your case.
Attorney Fees
Rail workers are exposed carcinogens, such as benzene or asbestos. If they are diagnosed with cancer or a serious illness, they can file a lawsuit for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). The amount of a railroad leukemia settlement may vary based upon the circumstances such as the length of time the employee was exposed. A FELA cancer lawyer who is competent can help railroad employees determine the value of their claim, and negotiate with insurance companies to get fair compensation.
In one instance, our railroad cancer attorneys successfully represented the major railroad client in a FELA lawsuit claiming that exposure to diesel exhaust and other toxic chemicals caused the plaintiff's oropharynx cancer. The judge granted summary judgment finding that the statute of limitations had expired prior to the plaintiff's diagnosis as well as that his claims were barred by an earlier release agreement.
Contact us now to schedule a free consultation if you have been diagnosed with railroad cancer or any other health issues due to your work exposure. We can review your medical records and other documents to determine the amount a leukemia from a railroad settlement could be worth. We can also talk about whether you are eligible for additional compensations, including future or past lost wages and medical expenses that are not covered by insurance.