Railroad jobs are some of the most dangerous in the country. As such, the Federal Employer’s Liability Act (FELA) governs the measures railroad companies must take to ensure the safety of their employees while holding them financially responsible for injuries sustained because of their negligence. As an employee of the nation’s railroads, understanding the duties and responsibilities your employer must uphold is crucial. If injured because of their negligence, it’s imperative to contact an experienced FELA lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
What Duties Do Employers Have Under FELA?
It’s necessary to understand that FELA provides standards that ensure railroads take measures to protect their employees. These regulations include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Workplace hazards: Employers must take the time to ensure work environments are safe and free from hazards. This includes ensuring equipment is up to date and providing the appropriate tools necessary for a job to be completed safely and correctly.
- Training: FELA expects employers to complete the necessary training for new workers to ensure they are equipped to handle the duties expected of them. However, it also ensures that supervisors take their role seriously to prevent unnecessary injuries.
- Safety regulations: Finally, FELA dictates that aside from federal regulations, railroad companies must enforce their own company standards for workplace safety. If these measures are not met, the company can still be found liable under FELA.
What Happens if My Employer Breaches Their Duties?
If your employer breaches their duty and you are injured because of that negligence, understanding how to proceed is crucial.
In the event you suffer an injury while working on the railroad, the first thing you should do is alert your shift supervisor to the injury. They will likely ask you to file a personal injury report, so ensure you read it carefully before signing. Next, you’ll want to seek medical attention as soon as possible to receive treatment for the injuries you endured. Even if you do not feel your injuries are severe, it’s essential to establish medical care soon after your injuries. Be sure to keep all medical records and bills to ensure you can receive adequate compensation.
Finally, you’ll want to contact an experienced FELA attorney to discuss your legal options. Unfortunately, filing a claim against these large corporations can be particularly challenging, so letting a lawyer handle the legal complexities of your case is vital to recovering the compensation you are entitled to.
At Doran & Murphy, we understand how frustrating it is to endure an injury due to the negligence of your employer. As such, we will handle your case with the utmost care to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how our dedicated legal team will fight for you.
