Standing Up For Injured Railroad Workers Across The East Coast
Last updated on June 7, 2024
Workers in the railroad industry are protected under specific legislation that recognizes their unique contribution to the economy and the special risks involved in railroad work.
The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), passed in 1908, is considered by some to be the country’s first major social legislation. While FELA did much to improve worker safety, railroads still developed policies to discourage claims, such as firing workers who reported injuries regardless of their own negligence. In 2008, Congress amended the Federal Rail Safety Act (FRSA) to include a Whistleblower provision to curb these practices.
Darby Law Group’s extensive experience and focus on railroad litigation makes the team uniquely aware of railroads’ strategies to defeat claims. Helping counter those strategies are experienced attorney Matt Darby, along with five veteran railroad workers who serve as Field Representatives conveniently located to visit clients and investigate claims immediately.
If you are in need of legal assistance for any of the following matters, be sure to get in touch with us.
Traumatic Injuries (FELA)
Railroad employee injuries occur often and are frequently catastrophic. The main route for recovery from traumatic injuries sustained by railroad workers is the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). To win the case, we must prove that the railroad was at fault for causing the injury. Other Federal laws, such as the Federal Safety Appliance Act (FSAA) and the Locomotive Inspection Act (LIA) or other regulations, may be involved.
Cumulative Traumatic Injuries (FELA)
After many years of railroad work, most employees suffer from some form of orthopedic injury. These injuries include osteoarthritis of the knees, back and neck, shoulders, etc. It is difficult to find an experienced railroad worker who has not had at least one surgery or significant time off from work due to an orthopedic condition. These cumulative work injuries are often avoidable if the railroad had employed simple ergonomic principles. These “occupational” cases can be pursued under the Federal Employers Liability Act.
Railroad Whistleblower Claims (FRSA)
Railroad employees have long recognized that their employers have a well-established culture of harassment and intimidation with regard to the reporting of work-related injuries and safety issues in general. At long last, there is protection for railroad employees who reported injuries or unsafe conditions.
Guiding You Through The FELA Claims Process
After suffering an injury or occupational illness in connection to railroad work, what you do next matters greatly. It is critical to carefully navigate the FELA claims process. Missteps could jeopardize your chances of getting the relief you need. Attorney Darby and the rest of the team at our firm are ready to help you with every step. Throughout the entirety of the process, they can answer questions you have regarding your claim and guide you forward.
Conductor And Engineer Certification
Railroad engineers and conductors are required to be certified under federal law. The certification procedures are administered by the employing railroad. Unfortunately, railroads often fail to employ the proper certification procedures. This results in engineers and conductors who are incorrectly denied recertification. Thus, they are denied the opportunity to continue working in their craft and lose significant wages and benefits.
Legal Mobile App For Railroad Workers
Mr. Darby’s mobile app contains important legal information critical to Railroad Workers, an updated blog feed, a direct contact feature and much more. Now, Railroad Workers can keep Matt right in their pocket and share with others who may need his services. Download Matt Darby’s mobile app and feel protected knowing he is just a click away.
Reach Out For Comprehensive Support
Let us protect your rights when you are harmed in connection to railroad work. Based in Hunt Valley, we help railroad workers navigate all aspects of injury, occupational illness and disability claims. Learn more about how we can help you pursue the compensation you need by calling 866-409-6136 or contacting us online.