When a worker is injured on the job, they no doubt want to be compensated for their injuries. For most workers employed in the private sector, workers\u2019 compensation insurance is the best way to seek compensation for medical expenses, and sometimes even compensation for lost wages when the employee is unable to return to work. However, workers\u2019 compensation does not apply to all<\/em> workers.<\/p>\n Railroad workers in the United States are covered under a different type of benefit program: The Federal Employers\u2019 Liability Act<\/a>, or FELA.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The most obvious difference between FELA and workers\u2019 compensation is that FELA is only for injured railroad workers<\/a> and their families, and is a federal recovery system. Another huge difference between workers\u2019 compensation and FELA is that FELA is a fault system, whereas workers\u2019 compensation is a no-fault system. This means that in order to bring forth a claim under FELA, a worker must prove that the railroad (the railroad company, an employee, etc.) was negligent, and that the negligence contributed to the workers\u2019 injuries. However, the burden of proof, or the degree of fault, that the worker must establish is much less in a FELA claim than a standard negligence claim.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When a railroad worker is injured on the job, they should file a FELA claim directly with the railroad company or the responsible employer. However, in the event that the claim is not paid, is denied, is ignored, or other issues arise, the injured party can also bring forth a suit in state or federal court.<\/p>\n FELA also applies to former railroad workers who have been diagnosed with lung cancer, bladder cancer, or kidney cancer as a result to dangerous chemical exposure while on the job.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Having to prove that a railroad company failed to provide you with a safe place to work or\/and that an act of negligence occurred can be challenging, but it is very important to do in order to recover the compensation you deserve. For legal assistance in navigating your FELA claim and improving your chances of a fair settlement, contact<\/a> the attorneys at Napoli Shkolnik today.<\/p>\nThe Differences Between FELA and Workers\u2019 Compensation<\/h3>\n
How FELA Claims Are Filed<\/h3>\n
Our Attorneys Can Help<\/h3>\n