Washington FELA Attorneys
Seattle • Spokane • Tacoma • Vancouver • Kent • Yakima
When seeking compensation for injuries sustained on the job, railroad workers must follow the procedures set by the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA.)
This process can be extremely complicated and often discourages injured workers. Working with a lawyer who understands the FELA claims process can be a great benefit.
Gordon & Elias, L.L.P. also represents FELA claimants for repetitive or cumulative trauma claims. For an in-depth discussion of the different types of cumulative claims please visit:
If you are a railroad employee in Washington and have been injured on the job, Gordon & Elias, L.L.P. can help you seek maximum compensation through your FELA claim. With more than 51 years of combined experience, our firm's attorneys can help you navigate these complicated laws and seek maximum compensation. Call toll free at 800-773-6770 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.
Before Congress enacted FELA, injured railroad workers had no way to seek compensation for injuries they had sustained on the job — even when they were caused wholly or in part by the railroad's negligence. Congress addressed the problem of railroad workers' injury claims by allowing them to file FELA claims for damages in either state or federal court.
FELA also makes it easier to show liability, reducing the burden of proof in ordinary negligence situations, and waiving the need to prove negligence where the railroad violated a safety statute or regulation.
At Gordon & Elias, L.L.P., we can assist you throughout the FELA claims process. We will take the time to inform you about what damages may be available, and we can advise you on railroad retirement benefits and disability benefits.
When you choose our firm to represent you, you will receive personalized attention from an attorney who cares. You will work directly with one of our lawyers — not an associate or paralegal. You can also call us at any time to find out about the status of your case — we will give you your lawyer's personal cell phone number.
At Gordon & Elias, L.L.P., we have seen the railroad industry improve its safety measures, making a safer work environment. However, railroad workers still face risks that threaten their safety and health. If you are a railroad employee who has been injured on the job, contact us online or call 800-773-6770 for a free consultation about how we handle FELA claims.
51 years of Combined Experience Representing Injured Railroad Workers
Bellevue • Everett • Spokane Valley • Federal Way
Designated Legal Counsel (DLC) and non-DLC FELA Lawyers Practice the Same FELA Law
In most instances, the injured railworker is a member of a union. Unions such as the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way (BMWE), the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE), both of which are under the Brotherhood of International Teamsters (BIT), have large numbers of workers in the rail industry. Other Unions include:
- American Train Dispatchers Department Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers ATDA
- Brotherhood of Railway Signalmen BRS
- International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers IBB
- International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers IBEW
- National Conference of Firemen and Oilers of SEIU IBF&O
- Sheet Metal Workers' International Association SMWIA
- Transportation Communication Union-Clerks TCU-BRAC
- Transportation Communication Union-Carman TCU-BRC
- United Transportation Union UTU
Whatever your Union, more than likely they will have a designated union counsel. These DLC firms practice FELA law. There are many other law firms that do not have Union designation and they also practice FELA law. In every instance when you are injured, a claims agent will try to immediately take a statement from you. You should definitely speak to a FELA Lawyer, DLC or Non-DLC, before you give a statement to a claims agent. As to choosing a DLC or a non-DLC, you should choose the lawyer that you feel comfortable with and you should not be "pushed" to hire any lawyer. A FELA Lawyer can help you pursue a claim for railroad workers' compensation, i.e., FELA, if you have been injured.
