FELA Law

The Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA) is a federal law designed to help injured railroad workers recover compensation for their medical bills, lost wages and other damages. FELA was established in 1908 as new communities and industries expanded westward.

The railroad industry was booming to keep up with the expansion, however it was highly unregulated. Congress created the Federal Employers' Liability Act to protect railroad workers from the harsh dangers of the job and lack of regulation. FELA law sought to ensure a safer work environment and guarantee compensation for injured workers and their families.

Comparative Negligence

In order to collect compensation under FELA law, an injured worker must prove that the railroad owner/operator’s negligence played a role in the injury. If the worker is also found negligent, the jury will determine the percentage of which the worker is at fault and compare it to the percentage of which the company is at fault. This means that even if the worker is found partially responsible for his/her injury, he/she will still be awarded compensation for the company’s role in the railroad injury.

The jury will hear testimonies from both the company and the injured worker to determine who is at fault. Railroad companies are experienced with FELA law and usually employ a team of investigators and defense lawyers who will fight to minimize the amount of compensation they owe.

Although railroad companies can be held liable for injuries and deaths of their employees, compensation is not automatic. Because workers are required to prove partial or full negligence on the part of the railroad owner/operator, working with an experienced attorney who can stand up to the railroad company and its defense lawyers is crucial.

Experienced FELA Lawyer

Tony Malley, Attorney at Law is an aggressive and highly skilled FELA lawyer. He represents union members who have sustained severe, career-ending injuries and fights to ensure they receive the full amount of compensation they are entitled to. He is committed to protecting the interests of railroad workers who put their lives at risk every day and will fight for you and your family.

Mr. Malley recognizes the severity of railroad accidents and acts as an advocate for injured workers so they can rest and focus on recovering from their injuries. For more information, please contact Texas FELA lawyer Mr. Malley today.