FELA: The Law & History
In 1907, Congress passed the Federal Employers Liability Act, known as FELA, to protect and compensate railroad workers injured on the job. The history of FELA starts with the rapid expansion of railroads in the early 1900’s. As a result of that expansion, the number of injured workers on the railroads also substantially increased. Because of the importance of the railroad industry, seriousness of the injuries and number of workers affected, Congress passed the FELA law, after numerous court challenges it remains a strong protection tool for all railroad employees.
Under the law, railroad employers are required to fully compensate the injured party upon proof that the railroad was negligent. However, to prove a FELA claim and protect the FELA rights of a railroad worker; a qualified attorney must navigate the legal claim through a complex maze within a specific timeframe. Failing to complete certain steps and procedures during a FELA case can disqualify a worker from receiving compensation.
Connect with us on Facebook
