A healthy back is critical to a railroader’s ability to work and live. The back functions as the main support structure of body. An injured back can severely diminish a railroader’s ability to perform his/her duties at work as well as everyday tasks.

An injured back can present numerous safety risks for railroaders due to its complex composition. The back consists of vertebrae, discs, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, of which all are vital. Slips, trips and falls and using defective equipment are some of the leading causes of back injuries.  Proper housekeeping of spills and debris and keeping walkways clear of debris and equipment can significantly reduce the potential for back injuries. The railroad is required to provide proper functioning equipment and proper tools to complete your job.  If you find yourself suffering from severe back pain or suffer an injury. If this is the case, please seek proper FELA legal counsel and guidance from experienced counsel such as the firms of The Youngdahl Law Firm, P.C. and Doyle Dennis Avery LLP.

FELA Back Injuries

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc occurs when the soft internal core of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. Common causes for FELA herniated disc injuries are often due to the gradual wear and tear that leads to disc degeneration. Railroaders involved with frequent physical labor such as directing and manipulating freight may find this injury occur over time.

Fractured Vertebra

A fractured vertebra refers to one or more of the vertebrae bones in the spine breaking. Minor fractures can heal on their own with rest and medication, but can worsen if no care is taken promptly. A serious spinal fracture, such as a Vertebral Compression Fracture, can lead to permanent spinal cord damage, nerve damage, paralysis or death if not treated timely and properly. Railroader should not take pain in the bones of the spine lightly, and should seek a medical evaluation.

Muscle Strains or Sprains

Back strains and sprains are some of the most frequent back injuries and can completely immobilize a railroader if severe enough. The back has numerous powerful muscles, tendons and ligaments which help give a railroader his/her strength. Left untreated however a strain or sprain can get worse.

Cervical dislocation

Cervical dislocation occurs when you injure a ligament in your neck that causes instability in your spine and separation of cervical vertebrae. High impact events such as vehicle or train collisions and powerful blows to the neck can dislocate the cervical vertebrae. Railroaders who suffer a cervical dislocation can find themselves in much pain and should immediately seek proper medical care. It is important as a railroader that after any vehicle or rail collision you monitor and seek medical attention due to the potential of severe injuries.

FELA Back Injury Attorney

Railroad employees of all crafts face an unfortunate significant risk for back injury. If you find yourself in this situation it is essential to know your rights and what you are entitled to under the FELA. Contact our experienced team of litigators and railroad attorneys at The Youngdahl Law Firm, P.C. and Doyle Dennis Avery LLP. Our firms have decades of experience in fighting for injured workers when their employers fail to take responsibility. We aim to provide the support you need after a difficult back injury keeps you away from work and unable to live the way you deserve. We will fight all the way to verdict to get what you deserve.