Protecting Whistleblowers & The Injured

Working for the railroad? Know what to do in cases of retaliation

On Behalf of | Jul 30, 2020 | Railroad Injuries

When you work on the railroad, you need to know that you are protected against retaliation by the Federal Rail Safety Act (FRSA). This act prohibits all railroad employers from retaliating against any workers who participate in protected activities.

Those who do suffer retaliation can seek compensation and be “made whole” through this act. You don’t have long to file a claim through the FRSA, though, so you need to do it as soon as possible.

What are some examples of protected activities under the FRSA?

Some protected activities include:

  • Telling your employer that you or a co-worker was hurt on the job
  • Reporting a safety concern, such as dangerous work areas or security concerns
  • Refusing to perform acts that violate federal law
  • Refusing to use track, structures or other railroad equipment when it is unsafe
  • Providing information about fraud to the government
  • Seeking medical treatment for a work-related injury

Above, you saw that the act provides for “making you whole.” What that means is that the railroad may have to:

  • Void disciplinary action
  • Reinstate you
  • Pay you unlimited emotional distress damages
  • Pay attorneys’ fees on your behalf
  • Pay for any economic losses you suffered
  • And provide other remedies.

It can be hard to know what to expect if you’ve faced retaliation from your employer. Keep in mind that you have only 180 days to file an FRSA complaint against your company.

If you would like to learn more about the FRSA, then visit our website to see a number of different blogs and pages about whistleblower protections and other rights you have as an employee of the railroad.

Train Law
Blog

The Rail
Whistleblower
Library