Railroad Lawsuits - Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, and Laryngeal Cancer
In 1908, Congress passed the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) which allows railroad employees to sue their employers for work-related injuries and illnesses. This includes claims for lung cancer, laryngeal and mesothelioma.
In his lawsuit, Valdez claims he developed laryngeal cancer as a result of exposure to toxic substances at BNSF's workplace. This is a fact intensive issue that must be resolved by a jury.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium that forms the body's organs and tissues. It is caused by exposure to asbestos. Railroad locomotives, freight cars, and other machinery have been exposed asbestos. They could be exposed through diesel exhaust which is found in the ventilation system of locomotives and railroad engines.
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on its type and stage. Patients with pleural cancer experience chest pain (pleural effusions) and fluid buildup in the abdomen and lungs, and breathing difficulties. Patients with peritoneal cancer could be afflicted by fatigue, weight loss or stomach discomfort. Those with testicular mesothelioma might experience a loss in appetite, swollen glands or fatigue. The symptoms of mesothelioma can worsen as time passes.
A number of railroad employees have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos. They were able to recover compensation from their railroad employers.
The Federal Employer's Liability Act (FELA) allows railroad workers who are injured on the job to start an FELA lawsuit. They have three years from the date of their diagnosis to make a claim against their employer. It is vital to seek legal assistance as soon as possible after diagnosis. It is more difficult to prove that a railway workplace exposure caused an illness than other work-related diseases.
Lung Cancer
Railroad workers are at a higher risk for developing cancer because they work with dangerous chemicals and toxic substances on a every day. The harmful substances include asbestos, diesel exhaust and other carcinogens.
These chemicals can cause lung and throat cancer. Workers are exposed to these chemicals while working on repairs to trains, working around railroad tracks or yards and while removing old asbestos.
According to studies, even a short exposure to these harmful substances can lead to cancer. Asbestos is a typical component in many locomotives is the most well-known toxic substance to cause mesothelioma, but other cancers like esophageal cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma may be associated with it. Benzene, a substance that is found in crude oils can be released by railroad operations, potentially exposing railroad workers to cancer.
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with cancer due to your job, it's vital that you find an experienced FELA lawyer. Railroad Cancer Lawsuit Settlements permit railroad workers whether they are present or past, to sue their employers for injuries caused by negligence while working. Contact us for a free consultation if you have questions regarding the possibility of filing a lawsuit. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of injured railroad workers and their families. We have secured millions of dollars in compensation for the families of victims.
Head Cancer
Rail workers working outside are exposed to a variety of hazardous chemicals. Some of these chemicals may cause cancer, such as head cancer. Even though certain cancers are caused by prolonged exposure, even a brief exposure to carcinogenic substances may increase the risk of certain kinds of cancer.
Laryngeal cancer is a type of head cancer which occurs when tumors begin to grow in the voice box. This type of cancer is often difficult to treat, but it can be treated successfully if it is caught early. It is essential to schedule regular check-ups on a patient diagnosed with laryngeal carcinoma. This will aid in preventing the spread of cancer. These appointments will determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body or to the larynx.
Many railway workers are diagnosed with mesothelioma, or other cancers after years of working on trains as well as other parts of the railway system. While some have criticized the workers for suing what they call an industry that is "dying industry," mesothelioma lawsuits can hold accountable those who have blatantly neglected the health and well-being of the dedicated railway workers in the pursuit of profit. Furthermore, mesothelioma suits help families get the financial support they require to lead the most fulfilling lives after an asbestos diagnosis. This may include pursuing compensation for medical expenses and loss of income. Moreover, mesothelioma compensation can also be used to cover funeral expenses and lost inheritance.
Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal Cancer is a type head and neck cancer which begins in the throat or larynx. It is most often caused by drinking excessively and smoking. Laryngeal cancer is usually treated by surgery and radiation therapy. In certain instances, chemotherapy may be required.
The first step to diagnose laryngeal cancer is a physical exam. Your doctor will employ a scope or series of mirrors to look at your throat and larynx. If they find an abnormality or lump, they will take a biopsy from the tissue to look for cancerous cells.
A CT scan or an MRI of the head and neck could help doctors see the extent of the tumor or any lymph nodes that have grown in size in the neck. PET scans can be used to determine whether the cancer has progressed.
The overall survival rate for these cancers is contingent on the stage at which the tumor is. Early laryngeal cancer, which occurs when the cancer is small and isn't spreading to the vocal cords or other tissues has a higher chance of remission than advanced tumors. Our firm has represented railroad workers who have suffered from laryngeal cancer as a consequence of exposure to diesel exhaust and asbestos on locomotive engines. They could be entitled to compensation for their losses.