We are accepting new cases

Asbestos Exposure/

Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA)

Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA)

Connect with an attorney
Share
Written by: John Herrick
Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Legal Team

View Other Attorneys

Other Asbestos Exposure Attorneys

Case Overview

Our long history in representing those affected by asbestos-related diseases and asbestos and mesothelioma litigation also includes FELA-related cases. If you or a loved one worked on the railroads, you may have additional rights and benefits as outlined by the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), a series of federal laws passed by Congress in 1908 to improve railroad safety and provide substantial compensation for injured railroad workers and their families. FELA allows recovery for injury or death caused by:

  • whole or partial negligence of the railroad, its officers or employees
  • failure of the railroad to provide safe tools, equipment, appliances or a safe place to work
  • violations of the Safety Appliance Act, the Boiler Inspection Act, the Power Brake Law, hours of service and OSHA regulations

Working with Us

Wondering what happens when you submit a form or give us a call? We spend time gathering information from you, and your initial call is always free.

What's important?
  • Names
  • Dates
  • Timeline of events
  • Related documents
Connect with Us

or call: 1.800.768.4026

FELA allows a former railroad employee to recover for damages for loss of wages, pain and suffering, mental anxiety, and past and future medical expenses related to the injury stated in the claim. In the case of wrongful death, recovery can be sought by the legal spouse, children, parents or other dependent beneficiaries. Having an experienced attorney familiar with FELA can help you navigate the regulations and available compensation.

Railroad Workers and Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos on the job was unfortunately a likely possibility for railroad employees. From firebox linings to car insulation to industrial brake shoes and even diesel engine gaskets, asbestos was used in just about every aspect of the railroad system, and could still be found in a number of components until as recently as the 1980s and 90s.

The health dangers of asbestos exposure were identified decades ago, and documents show railroad company knowledge of the hazards by at least 1935. Tragically, these railroad companies knew, or should have known, about the health hazards that have resulted in today's epidemic of asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. 

If you worked for a railroad company and have since been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis, our asbestos attorneys are prepared to take on railroad corporations on your behalf and bring you the justice and compensation you deserve.

Our Experience in FELA lawsuits

In addition to our work with asbestos and other occupational hazards, Motley Rice attorneys also have experience representing railroad employees injured during the course of their employment under FELA laws. Our attorneys litigate personal injury and wrongful death FELA claims, including cases of mesothelioma, asbestosis, silicosis, welding fume or Parkinson's injury, lung cancer and other illnesses as well as catastrophic injury.

Contact an asbestos exposure attorney

If you or a loved one was diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, Motley Rice attorneys can help you explore your legal options.

Contact us today

You can also reach our team by calling 1.800.768.4026.

Read more about Motley Rice asbestos litigation

About the Author

John E. Herrick | Motley Rice Attorney

John E. Herrick

Member

John Herrick has spent more than 30 years representing victims of asbestos exposure suffering from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

Your Legal Options

Start Your Motley Rice Consultation in Simple Steps

Connect with an Attorney1.800.768.4026

1

Submit Information

Call us or fill out our online form with the details of your potential case.

2

Case Review

Our team reviews your information to assess your potential case.

3

Case Consultation

Talk with us about next steps.