Unlike workers in most other industries, railroad workers are not covered by state workers compensation laws.  Instead, their exclusive remedy for an on the job injury or accident is the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA).  As its name suggests, the FELA is a claim based on federal, not state law. 

Enacted by Congress in 1908, the FELA was "designed to put on the railroad some of the cost for the legs, eyes, arms, and lives which it consumed in its operations."  The FELA specifically allows current and former railroad workers to file a claim or lawsuit against their employer to recover damages for injuries sustained while working for the railroad.  However, unlike workers compensation which is a no fault system, under the FELA the injured worker must actually prove that his injury resulted "in whole or in part" from the negligence of the railroad.  In addition, there are also several other legal requirements that differentiate these claims from personal injury claims filed under state law. 

While many attorneys claim to handle FELA cases, few attorneys have actually represented an injured railroad worker--even fewer have actually tried a FELA case.  While railroad workers may suffer injuries similar to those suffered by other workers (e.g., back injuries, amputations, etc.) the law and damages recoverable can be completely different from state law personal injury claims.  As a result, the FELA can be a minefield of legal issues and traps for lawyers and their clients who are not intricately familiar with the FELA.  Railroads employ claims agents and defense attorneys who are experienced in handling FELA cases--shouldn't you?  Our firm has years of experience in this area and our attorneys have tried numerous FELA cases to verdict.   

For more information regarding specific claims under the FELA, click on the links below: 

Acute Injury Claims

Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer

Ergonomic / Wearout Injuries

Occupational Lung Disease

Chemical Exposure Claims  

Railroad Retirement Board

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION:  SAMMONS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., accepts FELA cases ACROSS THE COUNTY.  Our lawyers, paralegals, and other professionals are experienced in evaluating, investigating, negotiating and trying these difficult cases. 

Remember, your choice of a law firm is important. So CHOOSE CAREFULLY. Please keep in mind, the law puts time limits on how long you can wait before bringing a case.  Under the FELA a claim must be filed within three (3) years from the date the worker knew he was injured and that his injury was related to his work.  However, various factors may effect this time period.  Accordingly, it is strongly recommended that you contact a competent and experienced attorney as soon as possible. For more information regarding our firm's experience in this area, click Verdicts & Settlements.

If you, or a family member, have been seriously injured or killed while working for a railroad - call toll free (800) 519-1440 or email us for a FREE initial consultation.  All cases are taken on a contingent fee basis, meaning if we do not collect anything, you do not owe us anything.

Our team of experienced attorneys will review the facts in your case and answer any questions you may have.