What Types of Injuries are covered by FELA?

Friday, July 19, 2013

What Types of Injuries are covered by FELA?

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Passed in 1908, the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) was created to protect the rights and safety of railroad workers. Although working on a railroad remains a dangerous job in the 21^st century, this occupation was responsible for a large number of injuries and deaths in the 19^th and early 20^th centuries which lead to the creation of FELA. With all of the railroads in Chicago, Chicago accident attorneys are quite familiar with FELA and if you have been injured on the job you need to know what types of injuries are covered by the Federal Employers Liability Act. Although the top Illinois accident lawyers can answer all of you questions during a free consultation, here are four basic injuries covered by FELA:

• Sudden and Traumatic Injuries

Pulled muscles and tendons, back strains, lacerations, and broken bones are all covered and will obviously inhibit your ability to perform your job. Railroad work is demanding work and you must be in peak physical shape to execute the majority of your responsibilities.

• Aggravation of Pre-Existing Conditions

This is certainly a scenario where you would need to hire a Chicago accident attorney. When an accident accelerates or aggravates a pre-existing injury or physical condition, it is deemed as a “new injury” under FELA.

• Repetitive Stress Injuries

When you perform a strenuous task over and over, your body begins to wear down. These injuries develop over time and are not traceable to a specific date or incident. Common examples include hearing loss, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis.

• Occupational Diseases

If an Illinois accident lawyer can establish the disease developed as a result of negligence or working conditions, you most definitely have a case. Many cases have been filed and won regarding lung cancer, asbestos diseases and skin diseases.

Many people who work on the railroad are not aware of their rights or the details of the Federal Employers Liability Act. And in truth, it is not your job to understand this information. Call a Chicago accident attorney right now and they will not only explain this act to you, they will also give you a free consultation on the spot. If you have already been injured there is no use in waiting – call an Illinois accident lawyer right now!