How to Get a Settlement For Asthma Caused by Railroad Negligence
Diesel fumes are regularly inhaled by railroad workers. This includes switchmen, brakemen, and engineers. These fumes contain carcinogenic agents and can irritate the lungs.
Railroad companies could be held liable for this harm due to improper workplace safety practices. If you have been diagnosed with asthma or other lung diseases following prolonged exposure to diesel fumes, consult an experienced railroad injury lawyer.
Asbestos
Asbestos comprises six naturally occurring minerals. These minerals are made into durable, flexible materials that can withstand fire and chemicals. Asbestos is used in variety of products, including insulation, pipes and ships.
The tiny fibers of asbestos can be lodged in the lungs after inhalation. These fibers cause irritation to the lungs, and may cause scarring, referred to as asbestosis. The condition can cause breathlessness and an ongoing cough. A chest X-ray can diagnose asbestosis. The condition can be fatal if it isn't treated.
The fibers can lead to cancerous lung tumors. Malignant pleural melanoma is one such tumor. This type of lung cancer is rare and typically develops following prolonged exposure to asbestos. It can take as long as 50 years before the cancerous cells show symptoms.
Workers exposed to diesel exhaust and other workplace toxins such asbestos, silica and solvents, are at risk of developing asthma or other health problems. They might not be physically fit to work and may require medical assistance for normal living. These health issues can decrease the lifetime earnings of a worker by up to 30-40 percent. This means that they may be eligible to receive compensation under the FELA. Our lawyers can assist workers in determining if he or she is entitled to compensation.
Diesel Exhaust
Diesel exhaust is a complicated mixture of gases, vapors and particulate matter. It is a rich source of hydrocarbons, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Diesel particulate Matter (DPM) is the particulate fraction that is a source of diesel exhaust fumes. It may also contain silicates, metallic abrasion material and sulfates. Certain DPM can be inhaled and can penetrate the lungs deeply. This is the form of diesel exhaust that is most likely to cause asthma in humans.
Diesel engines for marine and locomotives are a major source of air pollution in a variety of areas, causing ground-level ozone which damages plants, kills trees and causes respiratory problems. Diesel emissions also cause acid rain, which causes erosion of soil, lakes and water bodies, as well as contaminating drinking water, food and water supplies.
Rail workers who suffer from occupational asthma because of diesel fumes can file a claim under the Federal Employers' Liability Act. An experienced attorney could help.
Failing to Protect Employees
Many railroad workers have to be near to diesel exhaust while they are doing their work. The fumes can trigger pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma and lung diseases.
Railroad companies have a responsibility to protect their employees from hazards at work that could cause occupational illnesses and injuries. This includes making sure that locomotive cabs have proper ventilation to prevent harmful fumes from entering. If a railroad employee develops asthma from employer negligence, they may be eligible to file a suit and receive compensation under FELA.
The FELA law allows railroad workers who are sick or injured to seek compensation for medical bills as well as lost income in the event of pain and suffering, disability and other damages related their illnesses. A railroad cancer lawyer will help you determine if the case is eligible.
Our firm has handled a variety of FELA cases involving asbestos as well as other harmful chemicals, such as silica sand, industrial soaps and solvents. Each case is unique and has resulted in a broad range of settlements and verdicts and settlements, the following railroad cancer cases will give you an idea of the type of settlements or jury awards you could be entitled to in your claim.
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Diesel exhaust exposure can lead to a variety of occupational illnesses, including asthma and pulmonary issues. These illnesses can make it difficult for workers to find jobs. They may also need to undergo retraining or even retire, if the condition is severe. These railroad companies may be held accountable if they do not safeguard their workers from the dangers of these conditions. A railroad asthma lawyer could assist employees in obtaining compensation for injuries and illnesses resulted from negligence by their employers. Contact lung cancer caused by railroad how to get a settlement to learn more about this case.
Do you have questions or concerns about health issues that are related to your job?