Working on railroads is consistently one of the most dangerous jobs, due to the nature of the work and employers who do not follow or implement safety measures. As a result, workers are left with injuries that can last for years following their accident, which can cause continued pain and financial strain. If you have been injured, understanding your right to compensation for future medical expenses is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters and why working with a FELA lawyer is critical to fighting for the justice you deserve for the damages you’ve endured.
What Are Future Medical Expenses?
When you sustain an injury, it can have complications that last for a while, meaning your claim may be settled before your medical care stops. This is common with severe and traumatic injuries, like broken bones or traumatic brain injury, and illnesses like cancer or pulmonary fibrosis. Even though you may require care well after your FELA claim has been settled, you are still entitled to compensation for the care you will receive to treat the injury caused by the negligent actions of your employer
How Are These Costs Calculated?
Calculating the cost of future medical expenses can be incredibly difficult. Generally, the first step is to show that you will require continued care. Once you can establish that additional care is required, you can begin exploring what care is needed and the cost of that treatment.
Generally, the testimony of medical experts is necessary to help ensure that you will need additional care. Insurance companies are far less likely to want to award funds for something that has not yet happened, so doing everything possible to show you require this care is critical.
The testimony of healthcare professionals is critical, as they can help establish the need for this care. They can speak on the injuries you’ve already suffered, as well as the care you’ll need in the future to fully heal or reach maximum medical recovery. In addition to medical expert witnesses, you may need financial experts to help calculate the costs, keeping inflation and other economic factors in mind to provide the most accurate estimate.
Do I Need a FELA Lawyer if I’ve Been Injured?
If you’ve sustained an injury while on duty for one of the nation’s railroads, it’s in your best interest to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you examine the best course of action for your needs. Generally, if your employer was at least partially responsible for the injury you sustained, you’ll be eligible to file a Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) claim to recover compensation.
FELA is an incredibly complicated matter that requires the guidance of experienced legal professionals to navigate. That’s why the team at Doran & Murphy is proud to guide you through these incredibly difficult times. When you have sustained an injury due to the negligent actions of your employer, our team can help. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
