When a person suffers injuries in an accident at work, it can lead to expensive medical bills and other financial losses. Recovery can be expensive, and for some Tennessee workers, it can be a burden for the entire family. For many types of workers, there are options for financial support available after a work accident.
While many employees are able to seek appropriate support through a workers’ compensation claim, things work a little differently for men and women who are railroad workers. If you are employed in this specific type of job, you may find it beneficial to know how you can protect your interests after a work accident.
What is FELA and what does it mean for you?
FELA is the Federal Employers Liability Act, and this act protects the interests of railroad workers hurt on the job. What you do after an accident matters, and it is prudent to know how to move forward with a FELA claim and how you can fight for the compensation you need and deserve.
There are specific things you would be wise to do after a work accident in order to ensure you get what you need from the FELA claim. Some of these things include the following:
- Complete your employer’s accident report. This step is important as it could play a significant role in your claim, and it is prudent to be as thorough as possible.
- Get the medical treatment you need, as this will provide you with important documentation you need to prove the extent of your injuries.
- Take note of the time you are missing from work, including the day of the incident, time needed to recover and time necessary for your rehabilitation needs.
- It may also be beneficial for you to draft your own independent report of the accident. This could be important for your claim in the future.
FELA provides you the right to seek compensation after an accident at work, and it may be beneficial for you to seek help in order to protect your rights.
Getting better after an accident at work
Railroad workers can experience serious injuries and financial loss after an accident at work, but they do not have to walk through the aftermath alone. You are entitled to help and support as you file a FELA claim and pursue what you need to get better and move forward.
