Railroad Lawsuits - Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, and Laryngeal CancerIn 1908, Congress passed the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) which allowed railroad workers to sue their employers for work-related injuries and illnesses. This includes claims for mesothelioma, lung cancer, and laryngeal cancer.In his lawsuit, Valdez claims he developed laryngeal cancer as a result of exposure to toxic substances at the BNSF workplace. This is a difficult matter that needs to be settled by the jury.MesotheliomaMesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium that lines the body's organs and tissue. Exposure to asbestos is the reason. Workers on railroad locomotives, freight cars, and other equipment have come in contact with asbestos. They could also have been exposed to diesel exhaust, which is found in the ventilation systems of locomotives and railway engines.The symptoms of mesothelioma vary based on the type and stage. Patients suffering from pleural cancer may experience chest pain (pleural effusions), fluid buildup in the lungs and abdomen, and breathing difficulties. Patients with peritoneal cancer may suffer from stomach pain, fatigue or weight loss. Those with testicular mesothelioma might suffer from a loss of appetite, swollen glands, or fatigue. The symptoms of mesothelioma could get worse over time.Many railroad employees have been diagnosed with mesothelioma following being exposed to asbestos. They were able, in some cases, to receive compensation from their railroad employers.The Federal Employer's Liability Act allows railroad workers to submit a FELA claim when they've suffered an injury on the job. The worker has three years to file a lawsuit against the employer beginning from the day they were diagnosed. However, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible after diagnosis. It is harder to prove that a work exposure triggered an illness than other diseases that are associated with work.Lung CancerRailroad workers are at high risk of developing cancer because of their daily exposure to hazardous and toxic chemicals. The toxic substances include asbestos diesel exhaust, and other carcinogens.These chemicals can cause throat and lung cancer. They can be inhaled by train repair workers and when working near railroad tracks and yards or when removing asbestos.Even a single exposure can cause cancer, as per research. Asbestos is an element that is found in the majority of a variety of railroad engines and can cause mesothelioma. However other cancers like esophageal carcinoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma may also be related. The benzene compound, which is found in crude oil can also be released during railroad operations and may expose railroad workers to cancer.If you or a family member has been diagnosed with cancer as a result of your job, it's important to seek out an experienced FELA lawyer. FELA law allows railroad workers who have worked in the past or are currently employed in their lawsuits against their employers for injuries caused by negligence while working. If you have questions about filing a claim, contact us for a no-cost consultation. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of railroad workers and their families. We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for victims and their families.Head CancerRailroad workers who work outside are exposed to a wide range of dangerous chemicals. Certain of them can cause cancer, such as head cancer. Even though certain cancers are caused through prolonged exposure, a brief exposure to carcinogenic substances may increase the chance of developing certain types of cancer.Laryngeal cancer is a form of head cancer that manifests when tumors grow in the voice box (larynx). This kind of cancer can be difficult to treat, however it can be successfully treated when it is detected early. It is essential to schedule regular check-ups on a patient diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. This will help prevent the spread of the cancer. These visits will determine whether the cancer has spread to the larynx, or to other body parts.Many railway workers are diagnosed with mesothelioma or other types of cancer after years of working on trains and other parts of the railway system. Some have accused railroad workers of taking on an "dying" industry, but mesothelioma suits can bring companies to account for those who ignore the health and wellbeing of dedicated railway workers to make profits. Mesothelioma lawsuits can also help families get the financial support they require following an asbestos diagnosis. You may seek compensation for medical costs and lost income. Mesothelioma compensation can also be used to pay for funeral expenses and loss of inheritance.Laryngeal CancerLaryngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer which begins in the throat or larynx. It is usually caused by drinking or smoking in excess. Laryngeal carcinoma is usually treated through radiation therapy and surgery. In some instances chemotherapy may be required.A physical examination is the initial step to diagnosing laryngeal carcinoma. The doctor will use a scope or series of mirrors to examine your throat and larynx. If they discover any abnormality or lump, they will take the procedure of a biopsy to check for cancer.A CT scan or an MRI of the head and neck could aid doctors in determining the size of the tumor or any enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. PET scans can be used to determine if the cancer has progressed.The overall survival rate for these types of cancers varies on the stage of the tumor. Laryngeal carcinoma that is early, meaning the cancer isn't large and hasn't spread to other tissues or vocal cords, has a higher rate of remission than advanced tumors. Our firm has represented railroad workers who suffered from laryngeal cancer arising out of their exposure to diesel exhaust and asbestos on locomotive engines.  Interstitial lung disease lawsuit  could be entitled to compensation for their losses.