Chicago Railroad Accidents FELA Attorneys :Your Trusted Advocates for Injured Railroad Workers
When railroad accidents occur, injured workers have a unique avenue for compensation known as the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA). Our Chicago railroad accident FELA attorneys at Hoey & Farina can expertly guide you through this complex process, ensuring adequate compensation and support throughout your recovery.
Are You Eligible For FELA Benefits?
FELA is a federal law that applies to all railroad workers across the United States, offering compensation for injuries sustained while on the job. Unlike traditional workers’ compensation, FELA requires workers to demonstrate that the railroad company or employer was negligent in some way, contributing to the injury. If you work on or around trains, perform maintenance on tracks, or have any job directly related to the railroad industry and have suffered an injury due to negligence, you may be entitled to FELA benefits.
Contact Our Chicago FELA Lawyers
If you are a railroad worker who has been injured on the job, it is essential to consult with our skilled Chicago FELA attorneys at Hoey & Farina, P.C. With years of experience and success in representing injured railroad workers, our team can assess your case, guide you through the legal process, and maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you rightfully deserve. Don’t wait—contact us today for a free consultation to explore your options.
What Is FELA?
The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) was enacted in 1908 to provide protection, compensation, and financial support for railroad workers injured on the job. Unlike state-regulated workers’ compensation, FELA is a federal statute that covers injured railroad employees across the country. FELA claims require proving that the railroad company or employer’s negligence contributed to the injury. This law provides a broader range of compensation, including future lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical expenses, often leading to higher settlement amounts than traditional workers’ compensation.
FELA applies to any railroad worker, including:
- Train conductors and engineers
- Track maintenance crews and repair workers
- Railroad yard workers
- Signal operators
- Brake and switch operators
- Train car and locomotive inspectors
- Dispatchers
- Railroad carmen and car repair workers
- Trackmen and equipment operators
Common Types of Railroad Accidents
Railroad work can often be a dangerous occupation, exposing workers to various hazards. Some common types of railroad accidents experienced by workers include:
- Train collisions
- Train derailments
- Equipment malfunctions
- Yard accidents
- Falls from trains or elevated work areas
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
- Track-switching accidents
Examples of accidents that can result in FELA claims include:
- Inadequate maintenance of tracks or equipment leading to derailments
- Insufficient employee training or supervision causing accidents
- Failing to provide proper safety equipment or procedures, leading to injuries
- Negligent operation of trains, resulting in collisions
- Exposing workers to hazardous substances without proper protection or warning
Why Choose Hoey & Farina, P.C.?
When it comes to representing railroad workers in FELA cases, Hoey & Farina, P.C. is the premier choice for a number of reasons:
- Our team of dedicated attorneys boasts over 125 years of combined experience.
- We are trustworthy, experienced, and aggressive trial lawyers who will work tirelessly to obtain the best possible outcome.
- Hoey & Farina, P.C. has a track record of securing successful verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients, demonstrating our commitment to excellence and professionalism.
Choosing Hoey & Farina, P.C. will provide you with the assurance that your FELA claim is in capable and experienced hands.
Most Frequent Railroad Worker Injuries
The nature of railroad work exposes employees to various hazards, often leading to severe injuries. Some often reported railroad worker injuries include:
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Resulting from falls, equipment malfunctions, or collisions.
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries or concussions caused by collisions, falls, or flying debris.
- Back and Neck Injuries: Strain or damage to spinal structures due to heavy lifting or falls.
- Burns: From fires, electrical accidents, or chemical exposure.
- Repetitive Stress Injuries: Caused by prolonged strain on certain body parts, such as the hands, wrists, or arms.
- Hearing or Vision Loss: Damage sustained from exposure to loud noises, bright lights, or chemical accidents.
How FELA Attorneys Can Help
An experienced FELA attorney offers vital assistance throughout the process of pursuing compensation:
- Ensuring compliance with time-sensitive FELA deadlines.
- Identifying and gathering evidence to support your claim.
- Establishing employer negligence through the compilation of relevant materials and expert testimony.
- Negotiating with the railroad company or insurance providers for a fair and just settlement.
- Litigating your claim in court if the settlement offered is insufficient.
- Guiding you through the complex legal landscape associated with FELA claims.
By working with a seasoned FELA attorney, you can maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve for your railroad work-related injury.
Conclusion
Railroad work can be a dangerous and challenging profession, with numerous hazards that may lead to severe, life-altering injuries. The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) is a critical piece of legislation designed to protect injured railroad workers and ensure they receive adequate compensation for their injuries. Navigating the complex world of FELA claims may seem overwhelming, but our experienced and dedicated team at Hoey & Farina, P.C. is ready to help you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a railroad accident, now is the time to take action. Contact our knowledgeable Chicago railroad accident FELA attorneys at Hoey & Farina, P.C. for a free consultation – we will assess your case, offer invaluable insights, and determine your eligibility for FELA benefits. Our team will handle every aspect of the complex FELA claim process, securing the compensation you rightfully deserve for your injuries. Don’t let the opportunity for justice slip through your fingers – call Hoey & Farina, P.C. today, and let us be your trusted advocates in the fight for your well-being and future.