How FELA Protects Railroad Workers from Occupational Diseases

Occupational diseases can be just as devastating to railroad workers as sudden traumatic injuries. If you suspect your workplace conditions have led to an illness, talk to an experienced railroad injury lawyer at Cahill & Perry, P.C. Attorneys at Law to discuss your options. We have extensive experience with the FELA claims process and can help you explore potential railroad settlements.

The Connection Between FELA and Occupational Disease

The Federal Employers’ Liability Act is designed to protect railroad personnel by making carriers accountable for unsafe working conditions. This extends to chronic hazards such as asbestos exposure, diesel fumes, or chemical inhalants that can result in long-term health issues. According to the Federal Railroad Administration, consistent exposure to toxins and allergens can significantly raise the risk of respiratory conditions and certain forms of cancer. 

FELA departs from standard workers’ compensation in that you must prove employer negligence played a role in your illness. However, you can seek railroad injury settlement for a range of occupational diseases if evidence demonstrates that the carrier failed to uphold its duty of care.

Common Occupational Diseases Among Railroad Employees

Railroad employees often work in environments prone to high levels of noise, toxic fumes, and repetitive strain. FELA covers a wide range of occupational diseases that railroad workers may develop. These can include:

• Hearing Loss
  Prolonged exposure to loud engines, machinery, and horn blasts can lead to both temporary and permanent hearing damage. This may include tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or a marked reduction in hearing acuity over time. Employers are expected to provide protective equipment and maintain safe noise levels in accordance with regulations published by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
• Respiratory Conditions
  Frequent inhalation of diesel fumes, dust, and chemical agents can heighten the risk of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other pulmonary ailments. Proper ventilation and enforcement of safety protocols are crucial for reducing harmful exposures.
• Cancers Linked to Toxin Exposure
  Mesothelioma and other malignancies may develop when individuals encounter asbestos-laden materials, which were once common in older railroad structures and vehicles. Even minimal levels of asbestos exposure can pose severe long-term health hazards, making regular monitoring and timely removal of asbestos-containing products essential.
• Repetitive Stress Injuries
  Continuous use of vibrating equipment, combined with repetitive tasks like lifting or bending, may cause degenerative disk disease. These conditions can underpin a railroad back injury settlement when medical evidence shows that improper ergonomics and extended physical strain played a role in the injury.
• Joint and Musculoskeletal Disorders
  Knees, hips, and shoulders often bear the brunt of duties that involve forceful or repetitive movements. Over time, these strains can contribute to persistent joint problems. If shoulder damage or rotator cuff issues are linked to tasks such as overhead lifting, it can lead to a railroad shoulder injury settlement.
• Exposure-Related Illnesses and Allergies
  Chemical spills or leaks can lead to irritation of the skin and airways, while ongoing exposure to cleaning solvents and pesticides sometimes triggers allergic reactions or more serious toxicological effects.

Establishing that such conditions arose from substandard workplace practices is pivotal to achieving fair compensation under railroad injury law. Evidence of inadequate safety measures, poor equipment maintenance, or lack of protective gear can support claims aimed at holding carriers responsible for unsafe environments.

Proving Negligence in FELA Cases

To succeed in a FELA claim, you must show that the railroad employer knew or should have known about hazardous conditions. For instance, if outdated equipment exposed workers to harmful fumes, or if ventilation systems were not properly maintained, that can form evidence of negligence. FELA also operates under a comparative negligence model, which might reduce damages based on your share of responsibility but does not entirely bar recovery. Even if you played a small part in your condition, the best FELA attorney you choose can still pursue damages related to medical bills, lost wages, and future healthcare needs.

Take an Early Step to Strengthen Your Claim

Choose Cahill & Perry, P.C. Attorneys at Law for comprehensive FELA representation that holds railroad employers accountable for occupational diseases. Reach out and let us review your situation so you can regain financial stability and focus on your health. Call us to get started today.