Compensation claims made under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) generally generate significantly higher payouts than claims made under state workers’ compensation. In one case in Nebraska, a maintenance crew member received nearly $2.8 million for injuries suffered while replacing railroad ties. Kendall Walsh, 36, sustained a serious and permanent injury to his right arm when a stacked pile of concrete railroad ties shifted and fell on him. The jury found that Union Pacific had failed to stack the ties using the standard method and awarded Mr. Walsh damages.
Under FELA, you can claim compensation for your work-related injury or illness. Damages may be sought for both economic and noneconomic losses, and include:
It’s important to note that the amount of damages you receive may be reduced by a particular percentage if you were partially responsible for your injuries. This occurs when a jury finds that a percentage of your injury should be attributed to your own negligence.
Whether you accept a settlement offer or take your case to trial, make sure you discuss your case with an experienced nationwide FELA attorney before making any decisions.