Railroad Lawsuits - Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, and Laryngeal Cancer
In 1908 Congress adopted the Federal Employers Liability Act, which allows railroad workers sue their employer if they suffer work-related illnesses or injuries. This includes claims for mesothelioma and lung cancer as well as laryngeal cancer.
In his lawsuit, Valdez claims he developed laryngeal cancer from exposure to toxic substances at the BNSF workplace. This is a fact intensive issue that must be resolved by a jury.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma can be described as a cancer that develops in the mesothelium that is the body's organs as well as tissue. It is caused by exposure to asbestos. Railroad workers have been exposed to asbestos when working on cargo cars, locomotives and other machinery. They may also have been exposed to diesel exhaust, which is found in the ventilation systems of locomotives and railroad engines.
The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ based on the type and stage. Patients suffering from pleural cancer may experience chest pain (pleural effusions) as well as fluid accumulation in the lungs and abdomen and breathing difficulties. Patients with peritoneal cancer may experience fatigue, weight loss or stomach discomfort. Testicular mesothelioma can cause swelling of lymph glands, fatigue or a decrease in appetite. The symptoms of mesothelioma may get worse as time passes.
Many railroad employees have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos. They were able, in some cases, to receive compensation for their railroad employers.
The Federal Employer's Liability Act allows railroad employees to submit an FELA claim when they've suffered an injury while working. The worker has three years to file a lawsuit against the employer, starting from the date they were diagnosed. It is important to seek legal advice as soon as you can after a diagnosis. It is harder to prove that a railroad work exposure triggered an illness than other occupational diseases.
Lung Cancer
Railroad workers are at a higher risk of developing cancer because of their constant exposure to harmful and toxic chemicals. The toxic substances include asbestos diesel exhaust, and other carcinogens.
These chemicals can cause lung and throat cancer. Workers may be exposed these chemicals during repairs to trains and working around railroad tracks and yards, or while removing old asbestos.
Even a small amount of exposure can cause cancer, as per research. Asbestos, which is a frequent component in a variety of railroad engines is the most well-known chemical that causes mesothelioma. However, other cancers like esophageal tumors and non-Hodgkin's lupus are also closely related to it. The benzene, which is found in crude oil can also be released during railroad operations and may expose railroad workers to cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer because of your job, it's vital to find an skilled FELA lawyer. FELA laws allow former or current railroad workers to sue their employers for injuries caused by negligence during their work. Contact us for a free consultation if there are any questions regarding filing an action. Our lawyers are committed to protecting the rights of injured railroad workers and their families. We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for the victims and their families.
Head Cancer
Railroad workers working outside are exposed to a wide range of hazardous chemicals. Some of these chemicals can cause cancer, including head cancer. While some cancers can be caused by exposure for a long time, just a short exposure to carcinogenic substances may increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
Laryngeal cancer is a type of head cancer that develops when tumors grow in the voice box (larynx). This kind of cancer is difficult to treat however it is treatable if caught early. It is vital to have frequent follow-ups for a person diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. This will help to prevent the spread of cancer. These visits will help determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body or even the larynx.
Many railway workers are diagnosed with mesothelioma or other cancers after years of working on trains and other components of the railway system. Some have accused railroad workers of being sued by the industry as a "dying" industry however mesothelioma lawsuits can be held accountable by companies who ignore the health and wellbeing of railway workers who are dedicated to maximize profits. Mesothelioma lawsuits can also help families get the financial support they need after an asbestos diagnosis. This can include pursuing compensation for medical expenses as well as loss of income. Compensation for mesothelioma could be used to pay funeral expenses and loss of inheritance.
Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal cancer can be described as a type of head and neck cancer that develops in the throat, or larynx. It is usually caused by drinking excessively and smoking. Laryngeal cancer is usually treated by radiation therapy and surgery. In some instances, chemotherapy may also be needed.
The first step in diagnosing laryngeal cancer is a physical examination. union pacific railroad lawsuit will employ a scope or series of mirrors to look at your larynx and throat. If they find an abnormal lump or tissue they will perform the procedure of a biopsy to check for cancer.
A CT scan or an MRI of the head and neck could aid doctors in determining the size of the tumor as well as any lymph nodes that have grown in size in the neck. A PET scan can also be used to determine whether the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.
The overall survival rate for these cancers is dependent on the stage of the tumor. Laryngeal cancer that is early, meaning that the cancer is still in its early stages and has not spread to other tissues or the vocal cords, usually has a better cure rate than tumors that are advanced. Our firm has represented railroad workers who have suffered from laryngeal cancer because of exposure to diesel exhaust and asbestos on locomotive engines. They may be entitled compensation for their losses.