Employees in most industries are protected by workers’ compensation benefits after a serious work-related injury. However, railroad workers are protected under a separate system, known as the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA). Under this system, railroad workers may be eligible for benefits as long as they can demonstrate that the railway company’s negligence contributed to their injury.
If the employee can prove negligence, their FELA settlement is determined based on the level of each party’s comparative negligence. The greater the degree of the company’s responsibility, the more FELA benefits the employee is eligible to receive. If you can prove employer negligence, what benefits can you receive under FELA?
Benefits available under FELA
FELA benefits are designed to protect an injured railroad worker’s financial and physical well-being. If injured, you may be eligible to collect benefits to cover:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Other financial expenses from the accident
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Compensation for lost limbs or organs
- Family financial compensation in the event of death
What types of injuries are covered?
FELA protects employees facing a wide-array of injuries, including cumulative trauma injuries such as tendon strain from repeated use. Any type of work-related injury that is at least partially the fault of the railway company should be documented and pursued. Your health is important, and you deserve the full extent of financial support provided by the FELA system.
If you are struggling to receive the benefits that you deserve, an attorney experienced in FELA cases can provide the experienced support you need to pursue maximum benefits.
