Wrongful Death
Wrongful Death
Railroad Accidents/Wrongful Death
Should ultimate tragedy strike and your railroader is killed on the job due in whole or in part to the railroad’s negligence, the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) provides that the railroad is liable in damages to the surviving spouse and children. The FELA provides for the right of surviving family members to sue the railroad company for wrongful death. Where a deceased railroader was single and had no children at the time of death, the employee’s parents have the right to recover damages.
Damages recoverable in a FELA wrongful death case are those which will fairly compensate the relatives of the deceased employee and can include:
Loss of support claimed by a spouse or child
Loss of services claimed by a spouse
Loss of nurture and guidance claimed by a child
Should you suffer the devastating loss of your loved one at the hands of the railroad, be cautious, as the railroad claims agent may contact you and attempt to offer you a settlement. At this most stressful time, remember that the railroad will try to minimize its financial loss. Do not settle with the railroad. Call our experienced FELA trial team to discuss your rights and path forward under the FELA.