FELA Lawyers

Cell Phone Ban for Railroad Employees

Cell phones are incredibly convenient and provide many of us with a quick way to communicate with a number of different people. Unfortunately, this technology can also cause injuries, as many people become more concerned with their phone call or text message rather than their safety. For this reason, cell phone usage has been banned on some of America’s busiest roadways.

Cell Phones on Locomotives

The dangers presented by cell phones not only affect those operating automobiles, but also affect those responsible for operating locomotives. The tragic events of September 12th, 2008, have proven that the danger of cell phones far outweighs the convenience. The head-on collision of a California Metrolink commuter train and a freight train claimed the lives of 25 people and injured over 130. Investigations have discovered that the Metrolink operator was busy texting and did not see a red light, causing the two trains to collide.

California Ban on Cell Phones

The California Public Utilities Commission has temporarily banned the use of cell phones for engineers, brakemen, conductors, and operators while on-duty. This motion has been made to ensure the safety of all those affected by the work of these employees. It is the hopes of the California Public Utilities Commission that this ban will keep the public and railroad workers themselves safe.

For the moment, there have been no other state or federal laws passed to prohibit the use of cell phones by railroad workers.

FELA Protects Railroad Workers

Railroad workers who are injured due to the negligent acts of their coworkers or employers should speak with a Federal Employer’s Liability Act lawyer right away. Under FELA, railroad workers are protected from the damages caused by the negligence of others.

Contact a FELA Lawyer Today

To schedule your initial consultation with a FELA attorney, contact the FELA lawyers of Williams Kherkher today by calling 800-220-9341.