Contentious situation arises after railroad worker injuries

On behalf of Cahill & Perry, P.C. Attorneys at Law posted in railroad worker injuries on Wednesday, July 18, 2018.

Connecticut railroad employees address issues related to workplace accidents through a system that operates under rules according to the Federal Employers Liability Act. FELA is a system designed to help those who suffer railroad worker injuries to seek full recovery for their losses, as opposed to workers’ compensation programs that do not allow workers to file personal injury claims against their employers. A man in another state is currently involved in a legal battle against both his railroad employer and his union representatives.

The worker suffered an injury on the job in 2013 although the details of the incident were not disclosed. At some point, however, his employer agreed to allow him to take an extended leave of absence because of a serious health condition related to the incident. Less than six months later, he was fired.

Workers often turn to their union representatives for support in such situations, which is exactly what the man in this particular situation did. However, he is now suing his local union because more than three years have passed and representatives never arbitrated his case. Union officials claim they did not have sufficient funds to arbitrate the case and that it is not uncommon for such delays to occur.

The man is seeking recovery for his economic losses, including back pay, benefits and legal fees. Firing someone because of railroad worker injuries may be grounds for the worker to file a discrimination complaint. Such cases are complex, and Connecticut workers may find it easier to obtain satisfactory solutions by relying on experienced legal support in court.