The Dangers Railroad Workers Face and Their Legal Remedies

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Working in the railroad industry has long been known for its physically demanding and high-risk environment. While the sector plays a vital role in the nation’s infrastructure and economy, the dangers facing railroad workers are numerous — and often preventable. Fortunately, legal remedies exist to protect and compensate those injured on the job.

Common Hazards Faced by Railroad Workers

Railroad workers perform a wide range of duties that expose them to unique dangers. These risks are present across job roles, from track maintenance crews to train operators and yard workers.

On-the-Job Injuries

Railroad environments are inherently hazardous due to the heavy machinery, complex equipment, and fast-paced operations involved. Common on-the-job injuries include:

• Crush injuries from moving trains or equipment
• Falls from heights, especially when working on railcars or elevated tracks
• Electrocution due to exposed wires or malfunctioning signals
• Exposure to toxic substances, including asbestos, diesel exhaust, and industrial chemicals

Even seemingly minor incidents can result in long-term disabilities or chronic health issues.

Repetitive Stress and Occupational Illness

Aside from acute injuries, many railroad workers develop cumulative trauma disorders from repetitive tasks such as lifting, bending, or operating vibrating machinery. Over time, these actions can cause nerve damage, joint degeneration, or musculoskeletal disorders.

Railroad workers are also vulnerable to occupational illnesses. For example, exposure to diesel fumes has been linked to respiratory problems and lung cancer. Asbestos, once commonly used in older rail equipment, can lead to mesothelioma and other severe conditions.

Federal Protections: The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA)

Unlike most other American workers who rely on state workers’ compensation systems, railroad employees are covered under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). Enacted in 1908, FELA is a federal law that allows injured railroad workers to sue their employer for negligence and recover damages.

How FELA Works

FELA requires injured workers to prove that their injury was caused, in whole or in part, by the negligence of their employer. This could include unsafe working conditions, lack of proper equipment, or insufficient training.

Unlike workers' compensation, which provides limited benefits regardless of fault, FELA allows for broader compensation, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages (past and future)
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of earning capacity

The burden of proof under FELA is lower than in typical personal injury cases — the worker only needs to show that the employer’s negligence played a role, however small, in causing the injury.

Statute of Limitations

There is a strict three-year statute of limitations under FELA. This means injured workers must file a claim within three years from the date of injury or from when the injury was reasonably discovered. Failing to file within this period can result in losing the right to compensation.

Investigations and Railroad Safety Oversight

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is an independent federal agency responsible for investigating railroad accidents and recommending safety improvements. Their findings often reveal systemic safety issues within rail companies, ranging from mechanical failures to poor operational protocols.

You can learn more about their work and published investigations by visiting the NTSB website.

Legal Representation and Railroad Injury Claims

Because FELA claims involve litigation and require evidence of negligence, working with an experienced railroad injury lawyer is crucial. These attorneys understand the complexities of railroad operations, federal law, and how to build a compelling case against powerful rail corporations.

When selecting legal representation, it’s important to choose a firm with a proven track record in handling FELA cases.

Steps to Take After a Railroad Injury

If you are a railroad worker who has suffered an injury or illness, there are several important steps you should take immediately:

1. Report the Injury

Notify your supervisor or employer in writing as soon as possible. Even if your injury seems minor, proper documentation can protect your right to compensation if symptoms worsen later.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Prompt medical treatment not only protects your health but also provides crucial evidence for your case. Make sure all symptoms are documented clearly.

3. Preserve Evidence

Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any faulty equipment involved. If coworkers witnessed the incident, collect their statements and contact information.

4. Consult a FELA Attorney

Because FELA cases are highly specialized, consult an attorney who specifically handles railroad injury claims. They can help you assess the strength of your case, navigate the claims process, and negotiate a fair settlement — or take your case to trial if necessary.

The Role of Legal Remedies in Promoting Railroad Safety

Beyond compensating injured workers, legal remedies play a key role in holding railroad companies accountable for unsafe practices. When employers are forced to answer for negligence, it creates a financial and reputational incentive to improve safety protocols, training, and maintenance standards.

FELA claims and NTSB investigations often highlight systemic issues that lead to broader reforms within the industry, helping protect future generations of workers.

Conclusion

Railroad workers face dangerous conditions every day, from traumatic injuries to long-term health risks. Fortunately, through FELA and legal representation, injured workers have avenues to seek justice and compensation. Taking action not only benefits the individual but also supports a safer, more accountable rail industry.

If you or someone you know has been injured while working on the railroad, it's critical to speak with a qualified attorney. Firms like Poolson Oden offer experienced legal counsel specifically for railroad injury cases.