When you’re injured on the job, the railroad company will likely do everything possible to make it seem like they’re on your side. As such, you may not think twice before agreeing to work with the railroad company to determine how to recover the compensation you deserve. However, this is far from the truth. Unfortunately, agreeing to work with your employer can do significant harm to your case, leaving you with considerably less than you deserve. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced FELA lawyer who can help guide you through these times to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Should I Work With the Railroad After an Injury?
When you’re hurt, you may assume it’s in your best interest to avoid filing a FELA claim against your employer and work with them to determine the best course of action for your circumstances. After all, you won’t have to hire an attorney or deal with a potential lawsuit, as your employer will help take care of you, right?
Unfortunately, when you’re injured at work due to no fault of your own, the railroads, despite seeming like they’re in your corner, will likely do everything in their power to hold you liable for the injuries you’ve endured. This is because the railroad is a corporation, and at the end of the day, ensuring they save money is their main interest. Unfortunately, they’ll ask manipulative questions that make it seem like you’re taking responsibility for the accident to drastically reduce the compensation you’ll receive. Additionally, they’ll use all resources possible to find evidence to help dispute the claim you’ve made, even going so far as to surveil you after the injury to look for evidence that your injuries are not as bad as you claim.
What Are My Rights After an On-Duty Railroad Injury?
Because the railroad will do everything in its power to avoid liability for injuries they cause, it’s in your best interest to understand your rights as an injured employee.
The first thing you should know is that you do not have to see the company doctor if you sustain an on-the-job injury. Unfortunately, the doctor contracted by the company will ultimately look out for the best interest of the railroad, as they are technically the medical provider’s employer. As such, you should seek your own doctor.
Additionally, you should know that you have the right to legal representation. Though the railroad may try to talk you out of hiring an attorney by offering a settlement, it’s in your best interest to connect with an attorney as soon as possible. The settlement they offer will likely be worth a fraction of the compensation you are entitled to.
At Doran & Murphy, our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to assist you through these complex matters. If you’re hurt, you can rely on our team to fight for the compensation you deserve, unlike an employer who is looking to protect their own interests. Connect with us today to learn how we can assist you.
