If you work for the railroad, you understand that this job can be dangerous. However, when preventable accidents happen that leave you in pain and bearing the burden of medical bills, it can be incredibly frustrating. As such, understanding the common causes of railroad accidents and what you can do to fight for the compensation you deserve is critical. Keep reading to learn more and discover how a FELA lawyer can help represent you.
What Are Common Causes of On-the-Job Railroad Accidents?
One of the most frequent causes of railroad accidents is human error. Unfortunately, communication errors and signaling mishaps are among the most common causes of injuries for those working on the railroad. If a coworker does not communicate effectively, it can lead to a collision.
Another contributing factor to railroad accidents is the equipment. If machinery malfunctions or is not properly inspected and repaired, it can cause catastrophic accidents. For example, if there is routine wear and tear on the brakes, and they are not routinely inspected or replaced as necessary, it can lead to a collision. Additionally, malfunctioning equipment can cause serious injuries to workers.
Finally, unsafe working conditions can heavily increase the likelihood of an accident. For example, if working in a space littered with debris and hazards, the likelihood of a slip and fall increases significantly. However, an unsafe work environment is not only about the physical space. If your employer forces workers to disregard safety measures, this can lead to injuries. For example, if you and your co-workers are forced to engage in unsafe activities to save time and increase productivity or face termination, you can sustain injuries from engaging in these actions.
How Can I Recover Compensation as an Injured Worker?
If you are injured while on the job, you may be unsure how to proceed. It’s important to understand that the railroad representative or your shift supervisor may try to talk you out of reporting the accident. Instead, they may tell you to go home, rest, and return the next day. However, it’s critical to ensure you take the correct steps to document the injury as pursuing compensation is critical. You should seek medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible to ensure your health and well-being following the accident.
When injured, understanding how the Federal Employers’ Liability Act can help you recover compensation is critical. Unlike workers’ compensation, in which employees can file a claim regardless of who caused the accident, you can only pursue compensation through FELA if your employer is at least partially negligent. As such, you’ll need to proceed carefully to ensure you do not do anything that could hurt your claim.
One of the most important things you can do to recover compensation for the injuries you’ve endured is to connect with an experienced FELA attorney. At Doran & Murphy, our team is committed to helping railroad workers fight for the compensation they deserve when they are injured at the hands of a negligent employer. Connect with us today to learn more about how we can help you during these times.
