Progressive Injury FELA Lawsuits

Basics of FELA Lawsuits for Progressive Injuries

In the realm of legal cases, Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) lawsuits concerning progressive injuries occupy a significant position. These claims come into the picture primarily when railroad workers suffer injuries or illnesses over time because of their job conditions. The process might seem complicated, but once you grasp the basics, it is just a matter of time before you understand the relevant procedures.

Claims for railroad workers who suffer injuries are not run-of-the-mill workers’ compensation cases; instead, they fall under FELA. Here, being hurt on the job doesn’t automatically result in financial compensation. For a successful FELA claim, it is crucial for the injured railroad worker to demonstrate that the employer’s negligence caused or contributed to their injury.

For instance, if unsafe work conditions, inadequate training, or faulty equipment lead to an injury, a worker can file a FELA lawsuit to seek damages. The compensation usually covers medical expenses, lost wages, and, in certain cases, pain and suffering.

FELA Lawsuits

The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (known as FELA) protects railroad workers suffering from these repetitive stress injuries. To obtain compensation, a railroad worker must show that the railroad’s negligent behavior ultimately led to their injury. Negligence on the part of the railroad includes unsafe conditions, equipment, or environments.

Hearing Loss FELA Claims

Hearing loss is another common type of progressive injury, often caused by repeated noise exposure over a span of years. High levels of noise associated with working onboard or near locomotives contribute to hearing loss. Until recently, many railroads failed to provide adequate hearing protection for employees, resulting in hearing loss for many.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome FELA Lawsuits

Repetitive motion in an intense work environment is known to cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Common areas affected by this condition include the hands and wrists. People most often afflicted include railroad workers, construction workers, assembly line workers, and office personnel—or anyone who repetitively flexes their wrists and hands.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can range from a tingling sensation to a gradual loss of feeling in the fingers. The early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome are treated by wearing a brace to decrease numbness and pain. Surgery is also a treatment option that can relieve most or all of the pain. If left untreated, the condition can result in loss of function and become career-threatening.

Railroad Injury Statistics

According to a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics article on railroad-related work injuries, the injury rate for railroad workers is more than double the rate for all other workers. This includes roles such as brake, signal, and switch operators—demonstrating the hazardous nature of this industry. From 1993 to 2002, there were a total of 1,221 railroad-related worker fatalities. Of these fatalities, 62% involved non-railroad workers, 24% involved workers in the railroad transportation industry, and 14% involved workers in other industries.

In terms of progressive injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common nerve compression disorder of the upper extremity. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 260,000 carpal tunnel release operations are performed each year. Not only does carpal tunnel syndrome cause extreme pain, discomfort, and medical expenses, but it also results in the highest number of days lost among all work-related injuries. About half of all carpal tunnel cases result in 31 days or more of missed work.

Uplift Legal Funding

FELA cases with serious injuries can leave you out of work and take a long time to settle. In the meantime, Uplift can help. Call us today at (800) 385-3660 or apply online.