On May 10, fire erupted at the Alamo Junction Rail Park in Bexar County, Texas, in a facility designated for the cleaning of rail cars. Connecticut residents should know that a man was cleaning crude oil in a rail car when something caused a spark, leading to a flash fire and then an explosion.
The man, 39 years old, was trapped in the fire and died inside; firefighters had trouble rescuing him due to the smallness of the rail car opening. A second worker who was cleaning was critically injured and airlifted to Brooke Army Medical Center for treatment, where he died on the night of May 13. He has been identified as well. He was 42 years old. Four others were treated for minor burns and respiratory issues and have since been released from the hospital. Another was trampled on but did not need transportation to the hospital. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is now investigating the incident. The cause of the fire remains unclear.
When railway injuries and fatalities are the result of negligence on the part of railroad companies, there is the chance that victims or their families can be compensated for their losses. All they have to do is file a FELA claim. Railroad workers are not covered under workers’ compensation but under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, so it may be a good idea to have the assistance of a lawyer who is familiar with this law.
Those who suffer an injury or or develop an illness from toxic substances may file a FELA claim. It all depends on the manner in which the railroad company failed to maintain worker safety. After the evidence has been gathered, the lawyer may strive for a settlement.
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