Metairie FELA Railroad Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured while working on the railroad in Metairie, you need a lawyer who understands the complexities of the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA). At Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers, our Metairie FELA railroad accident lawyers advocate for railroad workers who have been harmed on the job.
Our railroad injury attorneys in Metairie are dedicated to ensuring you receive and recover the compensation you deserve. Here, we explain how FELA works, what you can expect from our services, and how we can help you recover from your injuries both financially and personally. Call us today to find out more during a free, confidential consultation.
What Is FELA?
The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) is a federal law established in 1908 to protect and compensate railroad workers injured on the job when the railroad is at least partly at fault for the injuries. Unlike state workers’ compensation laws, FELA requires the injured employee to prove that the railroad’s negligence contributed to the injury.
**RAILROADERS DO NOT HAVE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION!
A railroad worker’s only path to protection following an on-duty injury for the carrier is a direct claim against the railroad carrier.
The compensation possible under FELA can be substantially greater, covering damages such as pain and suffering, full past and future wage loss, and future medical expenses. FELA also allows for the possibility of bringing claims for unsafe work environments and equipment. Our law firm will help you prove the carrier’s negligence caused and/or contributed to your injuries, even in the slightest, in order to recover the compensation you’re entitled to.
How Our FELA Railroad Accident Attorneys Will Handle Your Case
At Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers, our approach to handling your FELA case is comprehensive and client-focused. Here’s what you can expect from our legal team:
- Detailed investigation: We conduct in-depth investigations to gather all necessary evidence, including witness statements and safety records.
- Continuous support: Throughout your case, you’ll receive constant communication and support.
- Proving negligence: Our team will work tirelessly to prove railroad negligence and the extent of your injuries.
- Negotiation and litigation: We negotiate aggressively with railroad companies and are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to ensure fair compensation.
Trust us to dedicate our team to achieving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
How Much does It Cost to Hire Our Railroad Injury Lawyers?
We believe in making legal representation accessible, which is why Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers operates on a contingency-fee-basis. This means there are no upfront costs for our services. We only get paid if we win your case. Our fees come as a percentage of the compensation we secure for you, ensuring you never have to pay anything out-of-pocket. We also provide a free initial consultation when you contact us.
Damages You Can Recover With the Help of Our FELA Lawyers in Metairie
When you work with our personal injury lawyers to pursue a FELA claim, our dedicated team will help you recover a broad range of damages resulting from your railroad injury. These include:
- Past and future lost wages: Compensation for wages lost during your recovery and potential future earnings if your capacity to work is affected.
- Pain and suffering: Reimbursement for the physical pain and emotional distress you have endured and will continue to endure.
- Past and future medical expenses: Coverage for all medical treatments related to your injury, including ongoing care needs.
- Past and future benefits: Claims for benefits you could have earned, such as retirement or health insurance contributions.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the diminished quality of life due to the lasting effects of the injury.
Our team ensures that every aspect of your suffering is accounted for in your compensation.
How Long do You Have to Seek Compensation Under FELA?
Under FELA, injured railroad workers have three years from the date of the injury to file a claim. However, determining the exact time the injury occurred can sometimes be complex, particularly with cumulative injuries or occupational diseases. We advise consulting with one of our attorneys as soon as possible to avoid missing the statute of limitations and to ensure your rights are fully protected.
What Types of Railroad Injuries Are Covered Under FELA?
FELA provides coverage for a wide array of injuries that railroad workers may sustain, encompassing both acute and chronic conditions:
- Spine injuries: Includes injuries to the neck, back, and lower back.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Such as concussions or other head traumas.
- Amputations: Loss of limbs due to accidents on or near trains.
- Burns and explosions: Injuries resulting from fires or explosions.
- Cumulative trauma: Such as body vibration and repetitive stress injuries.
- Emotional and psychological injuries: Including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other stress-related conditions.
- Occupational diseases: Like cancer and mesothelioma from workplace exposure.
- Wrongful death: Claims arising from fatal accidents.
Each type of injury can significantly impact your life and work, warranting compensation under FELA.
What You Should Do After a Railroad Injury
Experiencing an injury on the railroad can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately afterward is crucial for your health and any future claims:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Prioritize your health to ensure all injuries are properly diagnosed and treated.
- Report the incident: Notify your supervisor or the designated safety officer as soon as possible.
- Document everything: Keep detailed records of the incident, including photographs, witness information, and a personal account of what happened.
- Consult with a FELA attorney: Contact a specialized lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
Call Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers in Metairie Today
If you or a loved one has been injured on the railroad, don’t wait. Call Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers today. Our FELA railroad accident lawyers are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We offer free initial consultations and do not charge injured workers anything upfront when they hire us. Contact us now to get started on your case.