Erlanger Railroad Injury Lawyer

If you are a railroad worker, you are dealing with hazards that most people do not fully understand, which is why having an experienced Erlanger railroad injury lawyer with extensive knowledge of the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) makes a difference when obtaining fair compensation. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys at Busald Funk Zevely P.S.C. have represented railroad employees throughout Northern Kentucky and across state lines for years, and we have recovered millions for workers injured because of railroad negligence.

Understanding FELA and Railroad Workers’ Rights

Unlike state workers’ compensation systems, FELA requires proving that railroad negligence contributed to your injuries. However, FELA provides fuller compensation, including pain and suffering, full earnings losses, and punitive damages. The comparative negligence standard allows recovery even when workers share fault.

Coverage for Railroad Employees

FELA covers employees of interstate railroads, including engineers, conductors, brakemen, maintenance workers, and clerical staff. It applies to injuries occurring anywhere during employment, including rail yards, offices, and while traveling between work locations.

Railroad Company Obligations

Railroads must provide safe workplaces, offer adequate training, supply proper equipment, and enforce safety rules. Violations of Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, inadequate inspections, and deferred maintenance create liability. Our experienced train injury attorneys in Erlanger investigate safety violations supporting FELA claims.

Common Railroad Injuries and Accidents

Our Erlanger attorneys help railroad workers with many types of injuries, including the following:

Injuries From Train Crashes and Derailments

Collisions and derailments cause catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and amputations. Engineer and conductor injuries from sudden stops or impacts require extensive medical treatment and often prevent return to railroad work.

Repetitive Motion and Cumulative Trauma Injuries

Years of coupling cars, throwing switches, and walking on ballast may cause cumulative injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome, knee injuries, and back problems develop gradually. FELA covers these repetitive motion and cumulative trauma injuries when railroad working conditions contribute to their development.

Toxic Exposure Claims

Railroad workers face exposure to diesel exhaust, asbestos, chemical solvents, and herbicides. These exposures may cause cancer, respiratory diseases, and neurological conditions. Establishing causation requires experienced medical experts and detailed documentation of workplace exposure.

Building Strong FELA Cases

Railroad companies immediately investigate crashes and other accidents, often attempting to shift blame to workers. Our attorneys conduct independent investigations, preserving evidence before anyone can lose or destroy it. Photographs, witness statements, and equipment testing prove critical.

Documenting Safety Violations

FRA violations, internal safety rule breaches, and departures from industry standards demonstrate negligence. Previous similar incidents, safety complaints, and inspection reports establish notice of dangerous conditions. We work to obtain discovery that reveals patterns of safety failures.

Medical Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive medical records linking injuries to work conditions support FELA claims. The opinions of treating physicians regarding causation and work limitations carry significant weight. Our attorneys ensure that all medical documentation is properly maintained throughout treatment.

Managing the FELA Claims Process

Railroad claim agents often contact injured workers immediately, seeking recorded statements and quick settlements. These agents protect railroad interests, not workers. Our firm advises against providing statements or accepting settlements without legal representation.

Most FELA cases settle before trial through negotiations. Railroad insurers evaluate injury severity, liability strength, and verdict potential. Our experienced Erlanger attorneys, who understand case values, achieve better settlements for railroad occupational injuries than workers negotiating alone. We will also go to trial if we believe it is necessary.

Contact Our Erlanger Attorneys To Discuss Your Rail-Related Injury

Railroad injuries deserve comprehensive compensation beyond limited benefits. If you are a railroad worker injured on the job, contact us at Busald Funk Zevely P.S.C. immediately. Our knowledgeable Erlanger railroad injury lawyer team understands the complexities of FELA and fights aggressively to secure maximum compensation for your injuries, lost earnings, and suffering.