FELA, or the Federal Employment Liability Act assures railroad employees a safe work place and gives them and their families the right to recover compensation if injured in a railroad related accident. Under FELA, injured employees can seek compensation for wage loss, future wage loss, medical expenses and treatments, pain and suffering, and for partial or permanent disability. All railroad solvent exposure lawsuits have been filed under FELA.
FELA Lawsuit Cites Back Injuries, Asbestosis
-January 5, 2007
A former trackman for CSX filed a Federal Employer’s Liability Act (FELA) lawsuit late last month, claiming that the rail company’s failure to provide him with a safe working environment caused him to develop asbestosis and sustain back injuries.
Jack Franklin was diagnosed with asbestosis – a respiratory disease caused by exposure to asbestos fibers – in May 2004. According to the complaint, his condition was a direct result of the negligence of his employer. He claims that CSX failed to:
§ Monitor and/or inspect levels of asbestos in the workplace
§ Warn employees of the dangers associated with asbestos exposure
§ Provide safe equipment and methods of work
Franklin also alleges that his back injuries are a consequence of working with awkward and unsafe equipment and also having to work in uncomfortable kneeling and standing positions.
As a result of his injuries, Franklin claims that he has suffered pain, mental anguish, inconvenience, medical expenses, lost wages, and more. He is seeking damages in excess of $150,000.
Victim of FELA violations? Please contact us today to learn more about your legal rights and options from an experienced FELA attorney.