Not all injuries that occur in the rail yard or on the railroad are instantly apparent. Some injuries occur gradually or over time because the railroad employee is performing the same task persistently. These injuries are known as repetitive motion injuries. Repetitive motions injuries can occur from such activities as bending, squatting, lifting, or other activities. Injuries involving repetitive motion can affect any area of the body including:

• Knees
• Joints
• Tendons
• Elbows
• Shoulders
• Hip

If you sustain a repetitive motion injury, you need to seek medical attention and report the injury to your supervisor as soon as you become aware the injury occurred as the result of working on the railroad. Next, it is extremely critical you contact a Designated FELA Attorney, who can provide you with information relating to your injury.

INJURED ON THE RAILROAD? (4 STEP APPROACH IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE ACCIDENT)

“I was injured on the railroad, now what do I do.” If you are injured on the railroad or in the rail yard, the events following the injury are the most crucial.

1. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

Immediately following the accident or injury seek medical attention. If you are seriously injured on the railroad, the lead forman very likely will contact emergency services and arrange for an ambulance and medical treatment. However, if you are injured but do not require emergency service, it is essential that a doctor or medical provider examine you.

2. REPORT YOUR INJURY

 The Federal Railroad Administration, otherwise known as the FRA, requires all employees injured on the railroad to file an accident report. Even if you feel your injuries are not that serious, failing to report them could easily result in disciplinary action or termination.

DO NOT FILL OUT OR SIGN any statement prepared by the Claims Department

When filing an accident claim, it is extremely important that you list as much information as possible. Give a detailed account of:

• How the accident occurred;
• Factors and causes associated with the accident;
• How the railroad could have prevented the accident;
• Employees/witnesses present at the time of the accident;
• Defective equipment involved; and
  
• Include all pain symptoms you are having.

In addition, make sure you report this to local union office and get a copy of the accident report. Next you need to contact a designated FELA Attorney at Farris, Riley & Pitt who specialize in railroad accidents and railroad related injuries.

3. GATHER EVIDENCE

In addition to obtaining a copy of the accident report, start collecting evidence such as medical records, bills from doctors and physical therapy visits, all prescription medication receipts and eye witnesses involved in the accident.. Make no mistake the minute you file an accident report, the claim agents working for the railroad are busy collecting their own evidence.

The more information you have when you meet with a Designated FELA Attorney at Farris, Riley & Pitt the better off you will be.

4. KEEP TRACK OF MISSED WORK

Document all days you are absent with work related injuries. This should include any days (or hours) missed on the day of the initial accident, all time missed from the accident, and any time missed do to rehabilitation and follow-up medical appointments.