When you are employed by the railroad company as a conductor, it’s imperative to understand that safety is your number one priority. However, when your railroad company fails to ensure your safety, it can lead to serious accidents that leave you in pain with mounting medical bills. Unfortunately, many are unaware of the dangers associated with railroad conductor duties and their right to compensation under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA). If this represents your circumstances, it’s in your best interest to keep reading. The following blog explores the common injuries suffered by conductors and the importance of working with a FELA lawyer to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Responsibilities of Railroad Conductors?
The role of a railroad conductor is something that many think is as simple as checking the tickets of passengers and helping them with luggage. However, this is far from the truth, especially if you are a conductor on a freight train.
First and foremost, all conductors, whether on a passenger or freight train, are responsible for communicating with other crew members to ensure a smooth operation. Additionally, they are responsible for ensuring that all safety procedures are followed and documenting important details regarding the operation of the train.
However, freight conductors are also responsible for moving the trains around the yard and loading cargo to ensure it is secured in the cars to avoid causing injuries or the train to become unbalanced. Additionally, it is the responsibility of the conductor to monitor the tracks while the train is in motion to look for any potential obstructions.
What Injuries Are Most Common?
As you can tell, ensuring the safety of the passengers and crew aboard a train is one of the most important responsibilities of a conductor. However, when your employer does not share the same priorities for safety, it can result in avoidable accidents that leave you suffering.
Common injuries include, but are not limited to:
- Slips and falls from unsafe surfaces
- Injuries from dismounting or mounting a moving train
- Falling from a train car while it is moving
- Electrocution from exposed wires
- Injuries that occur from handling unsafe or defective equipment
- Being crushed during the coupling or uncoupling of train cars
- Malfunctioning handbrakes or other equipment
If you are injured due to the negligence of your employer, whether they have failed to enforce proper safety protocols, provide you with comprehensive training, or replace old and broken equipment, you are likely eligible to file a claim under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA). It is imperative to understand that you are only eligible to pursue compensation under this act if you can prove that your employer was at least partially responsible for the injuries you suffered.
As you can see, sustaining injuries on the railroad can be devastating. That is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced railroad attorney with Doran & Murphy. Our firm understands that these injuries can turn your life upside down, which is why we are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. When you need help, contact us today to discuss your circumstances with a member of our firm.
