FELA Lawsuit Lawyer

Railroad Workers Hazard: Toxic Encephalopathy

What is Toxic Encephalopathy?

Toxic Encephalopathy is a form of permanent brain damage. Its outward characteristics are short-term memory loss, anxiety, depression, and decrease in everyday mental functions. Railroad doctors have been aware of neurological disorders and other serious medical issues involving railroad workers reactions to exposure to solvents for decades. This condition is caused by exposure to diesel exhaust as well as the solvents used to clean trains. Brain damage due to solvent exposure has affected hundreds of railroad workers all over the world. The chemical solvents that cause the brain damage have been in use since the 1960s. Over time, railroad companies have drastically decreased their use of solvents, although some companies avoided getting rid of the solvents for years even though they were aware of its dangers.

Growing Concern for railroad workers

Doctors believe that there are thousands of potential railroad workers that have suffered toxic encephalopathy, as well as minor brain damage, that haven't been properly diagnosed. Over the past 15 years, 600 railroad workers have been diagnosed with toxic encephalopathy. A large railroad company, CSX has paid over $30 million to settle lawsuits dealing with these solvents. Other companies such as Norfolk Southern Railroad, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, and Union Pacific Railroad have also been brought to court by employees suffering from the condition.

FELA protects railroad workers

There is some justice for railroad workers who have obtained this form of brain damage. The Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA) protects railroad workers injured while at work. If you have experienced health issues and believe you may have been exposed to the harmful solvents that cause toxic encephalopathy, contact your doctor. Also, it is important to fight for your rights if you have obtained health problems due to the negligence of your employer. Contact a FELA lawyer at Williams Kherkher today to set up a free initial consultation.