Railroad Lawsuits - Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, and Laryngeal Cancer
In 1908 Congress adopted the Federal Employers Liability Act, which allows railroad workers to sue their employers if they suffer from work-related illness 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 a cancer that affects the mesothelium which is the covering for organs and tissues of the body. It is triggered by exposure to asbestos. Railroad workers were exposed to asbestos while 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 railway engines.
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary based on the type and stage of mesothelioma. Patients with pleural cancer experience chest pain (pleural effusions) and fluid buildup in the abdomen and lungs and breathing difficulties. Patients with peritoneal cancer may suffer from stomach pain, fatigue or weight loss. Testicular mesothelioma sufferers may suffer from a loss of appetite, swollen glands or fatigue. The symptoms of mesothelioma might worsen with time.
After being exposed to asbestos, many railroad employees were diagnosed with mesothelioma. They have been able recover compensation from their railroad employers.
wasatch railroad contractors lawsuit (FELA) allows railroad workers who are injured in the course of their work to make a FELA lawsuit. The worker has three years to file a suit against the employer, starting from the date they were diagnosed. It is important to seek legal advice as soon as you can following a diagnosis. It is more difficult to prove the illness was the result of railroad workplace exposure than other work-related illnesses.
Lung Cancer
Railroad workers are at a high chance of developing cancer as they work with dangerous chemicals and toxic substances on a every day. Toxins include asbestos as well as diesel exhaust, among other carcinogens.
These chemicals can cause lung and throat cancer. They can be inhaled by train repair workers or when working near yards and railroad tracks or when removing asbestos.
Even a short exposure can cause cancer, as per research. Asbestos is an element that is found in the majority of many railway engines and can cause mesothelioma. However other cancers, such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or esophageal carcinoma could also be linked. The benzene chemical, which can be found in crude oil can also be released during railroad operations and could expose railroad workers to cancer.
If you or a member of your family has been diagnosed with cancer due to your job, it's vital to seek out an expert FELA lawyer. FELA laws allow past or current railroad employees to file lawsuits against their employers for injuries caused by negligent behavior during their work. Contact us for a no-cost consultation if you have questions about filing a lawsuit. Our lawyers are committed to protecting the rights of injured railroad workers and their families. We have secured millions of dollars in compensation for victims' families.
Head Cancer
Railroad employees who work outdoors are exposed to a wide range of dangerous chemicals. Certain of these chemicals could cause cancer, such as head cancer. Certain cancers require extended exposure, even a short exposure to carcinogenic chemicals can increase the likelihood of developing certain types of cancer.
Laryngeal cancer is one type of head cancer that occurs when tumors develop in the voice box (larynx). This type of cancer is difficult to treat but can be successfully treated when detected early. It is crucial to conduct frequent follow-ups for a person diagnosed with laryngeal carcinoma. This will help prevent the spread of the cancer. These check-ups will determine if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body, or the larynx.
After many years of working in trains and in other parts of the railroad industry, many railway workers are diagnosed as having mesothelioma. While some have criticized the workers for suing for a "dying industry,"" mesothelioma lawsuits can hold accountable companies who have blatantly neglected the health and well-being of the dedicated railway workers in pursuit of profit. Additionally, mesothelioma lawsuits can help families receive the financial aid they require to live the best lives possible after an asbestos diagnosis. This includes pursuing compensation for medical expenses as well as loss of income. Compensation for mesothelioma could also be used to cover funeral expenses and loss of inheritance.
Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal cancer is a type of neck and head cancer that begins in the throat or larynx. It is usually caused by drinking and smoking in excess. Laryngeal cancer is usually treated by surgery and radiation therapy. In certain instances chemotherapy may be necessary.
The first step in diagnosing laryngeal cancer is a physical exam. The doctor will use a scope or series of mirrors to examine your throat and larynx. If they see an abnormality or lump it will be taken an in-person biopsy of the tissue to test for cancer cells.
A CT scan or MRI of the neck and head can aid doctors in determining the extent of a tumor as well as any larger nodes in the throat. PET scans can be used to determine whether the cancer has spread.
The overall survival rate for these cancers is dependent on the stage of the tumor. Early laryngeal carcinoma, where the cancer is not large and isn't spreading to other vocal cords or other tissues is a better chance of cure than tumors that are advanced. Our firm has represented railroad workers who developed laryngeal carcinoma as a result from their exposure to asbestos and diesel exhaust on locomotive engines. They may be entitled to compensation for their losses.