If you’ve sustained an injury while at work on the railroad, you’re likely facing medical bills, lost wages, and stress. You need an experienced railroad injury attorney in St. Louis who understands the unique aspects of the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) and will fight for the compensation you deserve. You need Patrick S. O’Brien.
In 1906, there were approximately four million railroad workers. During this period, states began to implement laws to compensate workers injured on the job.
The railroad industry opposed the law because these laws were no-fault. In other words, an employee received compensation for an injury regardless of who caused it, as long as it happened at work.
Congress enacted the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) in 1908 to provide benefits for railroad workers injured during their employment. In the words of Supreme Court Justice William Douglas, “The Federal Employers’ Liability Act was designed to put on the railroad industry some of the costs of the legs, arms, eyes, and lives which it consumed in its operation. Not all of these costs were imposed, for the Act did not make the employer an insurer. The liability which it imposed was the liability for negligence.”
Initially, the law was stacked in favor of the railroad. By 1939, amendments to the Act leveled the playing field and provided proper protection to railroad workers. Despite railroad efforts to amend or repeal the act, the FELA is still the exclusive remedy for workers injured on the job.
FELA is “a response to the special needs of railroad workers who are daily exposed to the risks inherent in railroad work and are helpless to provide adequately for their own safety.” (356 U.S. 326, Supreme Court of the United States)
It’s critical to partner with a FELA attorney who understands the law and the nuances of railroad work. At the Law Offices of Patrick O’Brien, we boast nearly five decades of experience representing injured railroad workers. We know what you’re going through and can craft a solid strategy against your employer.
Here’s how we’ll support you during this challenging time:
We begin by thoroughly discussing your situation. We want to examine every detail, such as medical records, accident reports, and other relevant railroad documentation. Our team also won’t hesitate to consult with industry experts so that we cover everything.
Railroad companies must provide a reasonably safe work environment under FELA. You can trust our railroad injury attorneys will identify whether your employer failed to meet safety standards or if their negligence contributed to your injury. We’ll analyze factors like improper training, defective equipment, or unsafe conditions.
Railroad companies will try everything in their power to avoid the situation. They often utilize aggressive tactics to minimize or deny a claim.
We know how railroad claims adjusters operate. We have deep experience working with these individuals and the methods they use. We’ll protect your rights and retrieve the compensation you’re entitled to.
Like any serious injury, those occurring on the railroad can cause financial hardship. We can help you pursue fair compensation for the following:
Our legal team works to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you’re owed under the law, letting you focus on recovery without worrying about finances.
Any legal process is complex and often difficult to understand, and FELA is no different. We’ll help you navigate through the process, from filing the claim to representing you. The Law Offices of Patrick O’Brien has a successful track record of winning settlements and – when necessary – negotiating in court.
Recovering from an injury is a long-term journey, and we believe in forming lasting relationships with every client. Unlike other firms, we’re focused solely on you. Our lines of communication are always open – even on holidays – because we’re here to support you at every step.
”I was a 15-year employee as Conductor and Engineer with Norfolf Southern Railroad prior to being in a work-related accident September 2012. Pat's concern not only for my well-being but that of my family was wonderful. Because of Mr. O'Brien and his firm, I received the treatment and support I needed.
-Timothy M Sullivan
At The Law Offices of Patrick S. O’Brien, we combine legal expertise, a client-centric focus, and deep knowledge of railroad practices when protecting our clients. We’ve helped thousands of individuals and families obtain the compensation they deserve after a railroad injury, and we can do the same for you.
We know how devastating an injury can be. If you or a loved one was injured while on the job as a railroad worker, don’t wait. Contact our railroad injury attorneys in St. Louis, MO, to secure the compensation you need.
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