FELA Injury Attorneys
FELA - What To Do If You Are Injured
The events that occur immediately after any workplace injury are often the most critical to the rights of the injured employee, and claims under the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA) are no different. If you or a loved one was injured while employed as a railroad worker, speak to a FELA attorney at Gordon & Elias, L.L.P. in Houston, Texas, to learn the steps and precautions you should take after the incident to ensure that the right to recover compensation under FELA is not compromised.
Immediately After the Accident
Seek Medical Treatment — The most important thing to do after the accident is to seek medical treatment for your injuries. If you are injured on the job, your employer will most likely arrange for medical treatment, especially in emergency situations in which an ambulance is called and you are taken to the hospital. Even if you feel that your injuries are not that serious, it is still essential that a doctor examine you. If you are seen by a nurse or other medical practitioner at work, it is important to also see your own doctor for an evaluation. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any pain or difficulties you have experienced since the accident. Remember to keep copies of medical records, bills and other documents related to your treatment.
Report Your Injuries — If you are able, immediately report the injury to your supervisor at work and complete an injury report form. It is important to be as thorough and accurate as possible when reporting information about your injuries, including the pain you are experiencing and all possible causes and factors that may have contributed to the accident. This document will most likely come into play later in the claim process.
Pursuing Your FELA Claim
Document Your Injuries — In addition to the report made for your employer, make a separate report for your own use (and eventually for your attorney's use) that describes the accident and your injuries in as much detail as possible. Be sure to describe the nature and extent of your injuries and the impact your injuries have had on both your work and personal life.
Gather Evidence — Remember to keep copies of your medical records; note the names of the doctors and other medical providers you have seen; and collect copies of bills for medical procedures, doctors' visits and physical therapy. In addition, write down the names of any witnesses to the incident. If possible, try to take pictures of the accident scene and any equipment or tools that were involved in the accident.
Keep Track of Work You Miss — Document all the time you miss from work as a result of your injuries. This should include all work missed on the day of the incident, time during which you were unable to work because of the injury and any rehabilitation process and any work time missed due to follow-up medical appointments.
Talk to an Experienced FELA Attorney
If you or a loved one was injured while employed as a railroad worker, there are several steps you can take to help ensure that your right to recover compensation under FELA is not compromised. It is important to speak with an attorney at Gordon & Elias, L.L.P. in Houston, Texas, who has handled FELA cases about your situation.
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