FELA Series

FELA versus Workmen's compensation

It is hard to believe that almost a century after its passage, many railroaders today do not realize the FELA (Federal Employers Liability Act) is the only statute that covers them for on-the-job injuries. The workmen's compensation laws of the various states do not apply.

Congress specifically passed FELA to cover railroaders who are injured or killed on the job because railroaders worked between states.

Yet in the early days of the last century, many claims agents convinced old heads that they were only entitled to the days lost from work after an injury, similar to state workmen's compensation, and, thus, many railroaders were not paid for the pain and suffering to which they were entitled to under the FELA after being hurt by the railroad.

Once again in the first half of this century, many new hires have no idea about their federal rights if they are injured.

The best way to learn about the FELA which protects you far beyond state workmen's compensation, especially in today's world at the railroad, is to attend your BLE meetings and listen to the presentations given by the Designated Legal Counsel.

Back to Winter 2001 Journal

© 2001 Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers