FELA Attorneys in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Experienced Legal Advocacy For Railroad Workers With FELA Claims
Trains continue to play an important role in moving freight and people in Minnesota, and none of this would be possible without railroad workers. Recognizing the inherent dangers in railroading and the risk of bodily harm or death faced by railroad workers, Congress enacted the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), 45 U.S.C. §§ 51-60 in 1908. As a result of the enactment of FELA, railroads are charged with a nondelegable duty to provide their employees with a reasonably safe place in which to work. Despite numerous attempts to reduce, replace or eliminate FELA, Congress has refused in each and every attempt to modify or change FELA.
Beedem Law is one of the premier disability law firms in Minnesota, and we are proud to advocate for railroad workers under FELA and other workers governed by the traditional workers’ compensation system. If you’ve been injured on the job as a railroad worker, we invite you to contact us to discuss your legal options in a free consultation.
How FELA Claims Differ From Workers’ Compensation And Personal Injury Matters
Railroad workers are not covered by state workers’ compensation laws. FELA affords railroad workers the ability to sue their employer for damages such as medical expenses and wage loss, as well as damages not regularly provided under state workers’ compensation laws, such as pain and suffering. FELA, again in contrast to workers’ compensation, requires the employee to prove the railroad was negligent. The burden of proof necessary to present a case to a jury, however, is significantly lighter under FELA than it would be in an ordinary negligence case (such as a personal injury lawsuit). To take a case to trial, the plaintiff only needs to prove that employer negligence played any role in the accident/injury, even a very minor one.
Damages and remedies available under FELA are not guaranteed and are not awarded or provided automatically. In fact, railroads routinely deny FELA claims. It is extremely important that railroad employees or their families contact an experienced FELA attorney and firm, such as Beedem Law, in order to gather the evidence necessary to prove the railroad’s negligence and recover what you deserve.
We’re Here To Help – Contact Us Today
FELA was enacted in recognition of the risks that come with railroad work. Its purpose is to protect you and your family financially when a railroad accident leaves you injured or disabled. Even so, FELA claims can be denied if they aren’t handled the right way, which is why it pays to have an experienced attorney on your side. If you need help with a FELA claim or appeal in Minnesota, contact Beedem Law in Minneapolis to schedule a free consultation. You can reach out online or call 612-305-1300.
