When railroad employees are hurt on the job, they must seek compensation under a federal statute called the Federal Employer's Liability Act, or FELA. To receive compensation for on-the-job injuries an injured railroader must show negligence on the part of the railroad. This can include:
Improper, unsafe, or inadequate equipment to do the job;
Improper training or inadequate supervision of railroad employees;
Performance of work in an unsafe manner by co-employees; or
Providing an unsafe place to work.
It is illegal to retaliate against an injured worker for seeking compensation under FELA. If a railroad tries to retaliate against a worker for making a FELA claim, they can be held liable for damages for that separately from the original injury. It is also illegal for the railroad to retaliate against other workers who support your case by providing testimony or other evidence.
