FELA Lawyers

Filing a FELA Lawsuit – A Short Checklist

If you are a railroad worker who has been injured on the job, it is up to you to protect your rights and interests. When seeking compensation for your injuries under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, or FELA, remember that the railroad company’s primary concern is ensuring its own profit, reputation, and survival; it will fight you every step of the way. While every FELA case is different, keep in mind these general tips for dealing with an injury at work:

File an Accident Report Promptly

There are two reasons to do this. First, an accident report is the primary way for you to record the events, circumstances, and causes surrounding your injury. Filing the report promptly ensures that you will not forget crucial facts over time. On the other hand, a late accident report can be used against you in court. The railroad company can use it to suggest that you are fabricating your injury, or that the injury did not occur on the job.

Get Medical Care Immediately

Again, there are several reasons behind this. First, and most obvious, is to give you the best chance of recovering from your injury. Second, getting medical attention immediately helps head off attempts by the company to pressure you into choosing one of “their” doctors. Finally, getting medical care right away underscores the seriousness of your injury and gives you a stronger case in court.

Stand Firm on Your Rights

Remember that the railroad company’s interests are exactly opposite your own. Don’t let them intimidate you into signing any paperwork, providing any information other than your initial accident report, or seeing “company approved” doctors, therapists, or specialists. The company will try to uncover insignificant discrepancies in your case to use against you in court. By keeping your own information private, you deny them this option.

Seek Legal Counsel

A successful case needs a competent attorney to represent it. In addition to the complexity of the law and legal procedure, you should realize that the railroad company most likely has a team of lawyers working to undermine your case. To compete with such a dedicated legal team, you will need legal representation of your own. An attorney can also prevent the company from employing unscrupulous tactics against you and help you protect your rights even before the case goes to trial.

For an experienced FELA lawyer, call Williams Kherkher at 866-950-9000 for a free initial consultation.