Railroad Lawsuits - Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, and Laryngeal Cancer
In 1908, Congress adopted the Federal Employers Liability Act, which allowed railroad workers to sue their employer if they suffer from workplace-related illnesses or injuries. This includes claims for mesothelioma, lung cancer, and laryngeal cancer.
In his lawsuit, Valdez claims he developed laryngeal cancer from exposure to toxic substances in BNSF's workplace. This is a fact intensive issue that should be decided by a jury.
Mesothelioma
The mesothelioma cancer is cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is the covering for organs and tissues of the body. Exposure to asbestos is the cause. Railroad workers have been exposed to asbestos when working on cargo cars, locomotives and other equipment. They might also have been exposed to diesel exhaust, which can be found in the ventilation systems of railroad engines and locomotives.
Symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on the type and stage of mesothelioma. Patients with pleural mesothelioma usually suffer from chest pain, fluid buildup (pleural effusions) in the abdomen or lungs and breathing difficulties. wasatch railroad contractors lawsuit with peritoneal mesothelioma may experience stomach pain, fatigue, or weight loss. Testicular mesothelioma can cause fatigue, swollen lymph glands, or a loss in appetite. The symptoms of mesothelioma might get worse over time.
After being exposed to asbestos, many railroad workers were diagnosed with mesothelioma. They were able recover compensation for their railroad employers.
The Federal Employer's Liability Act (FELA) allows railroad workers who are injured while on the job to start an FELA lawsuit. The worker has three years to file a lawsuit against the employer beginning from the date they were diagnosed. It is important to seek legal advice as soon as you can after being diagnosed. It is more difficult to prove that an illness is the result of exposure to a railroad work environment than other occupational illnesses.
Lung Cancer
Railroad workers are at an increased risk of developing cancer due to their constant exposure to toxic and dangerous chemicals. The toxic substances include asbestos diesel exhaust and other carcinogens.
These chemicals can cause throat and lung cancer. These chemicals can be consumed by workers during train repairs or when working near yards and tracks as well as when removing old asbestos.
According to research, even a short exposure to these toxic substances can cause cancer. Asbestos is a common component of many railroad engines and can cause mesothelioma. However other cancers such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or esophageal carcinoma may also be related. Benzene, a chemical found in crude oil, can be released through railroad operations, exposing railroad workers to cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer because of your work, it's imperative to find an expert FELA lawyer. FELA laws allow railroad workers, past or present as well as their employers to sue for injuries that were caused due to negligence while on the job. If you have questions regarding filing a claim, call us for a no-cost consultation. Our attorneys are dedicated to defending the rights and interests of injured railroad workers as well as their families. We have recovered millions in compensation for families of victims.
Head Cancer
Railroad employees who work outdoors are exposed to a range of hazardous chemicals. Some of these chemicals can cause cancer, such as head cancer. While some cancers require a long exposure, even a brief exposure to carcinogenic chemicals can increase the chance of developing certain types of cancer.
Laryngeal cancer is one type of head cancer that develops when tumors grow in the voice box (larynx). This type of cancer is extremely difficult to treat, but it can be treated successfully in the early stages. To prevent the spread of cancer, it is essential that a person who has been diagnosed with laryngeal cancer undergoes regular follow-up visits. These check-ups will determine if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body or to the larynx.
After many years of working in trains and other areas of the railroad, a lot of workers are diagnosed with mesothelioma. Some have accused railroad workers of taking on an "dying" industry however mesothelioma lawsuits can hold companies accountable who disregard the health and wellbeing of their employees to maximize profits. Mesothelioma lawsuits also assist families receive the financial assistance they require following an asbestos diagnosis. This could include seeking compensation for medical expenses as well as loss of income. Mesothelioma compensation can also be used to cover funeral expenses and loss of inheritance.
Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal cancer can be described as a type of neck and head cancer that begins in the throat, or larynx. It is usually caused by smoking and drinking excessively. Laryngeal cancer is typically treated by surgery and radiation therapy. In some cases chemotherapy might also be needed.
The first step in diagnosing laryngeal cancer is a physical examination. Your doctor will employ the use of a microscope or mirror to examine your larynx and throat. If they discover a lump or abnormal tissue they will do an examination to determine if you have cancer.
A CT scan or an MRI of the head and neck can aid doctors in determining the extent of the tumor as well as any lymph nodes that have grown in size in the neck. PET scans can be used to determine if the cancer has taken on a new form.
The overall survival rates for these types of cancer depend on the stage of the tumor. Laryngeal carcinoma that is early, meaning the cancer is small and isn't spreading to other tissues or vocal cords has a higher chance of cure than tumors that are advanced. Our firm has represented railroad workers who suffered from laryngeal carcinoma due to their exposure to asbestos and diesel exhaust from locomotive engines. They may be entitled to compensation for their losses.