Railroad workers may face challenges when making mental health claims under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA). While FELA protects workers injured on the job, it can be harder to prove mental health injuries than physical ones.
Proving employer negligence
One of the main issues for railroad workers is proving their employer was negligent. For railroad workers with physical injuries, it can be easy to demonstrate how unsafe conditions led to harm. Mental health issues, on the other hand, are harder to connect directly to the job. Workers must prove that the railroad’s unsafe work environment or lack of support caused their mental health issues.
Stigma around mental health
Mental health claims are often met with stigma. This is especially true in industries like railroads. Mental health struggles are sometimes seen as a sign of weakness, which may make workers hesitant to seek help. This stigma can also affect how others view the worker’s claim, including the courts. Workers may put off reporting their condition because of how they feel they’ll be viewed, which can weaken their case.
Difficulties in proving mental health conditions
Unlike physical injuries, mental health problems, like anxiety or PTSD, are not often visible. Proving a mental health condition usually requires medical records and expert testimony. Employers and their insurance companies might also argue against the employee’s claims. They may state that the issue existed before their employment, or was caused by some external circumstances.
Getting the help you need
Filing a mental health claim under FELA can be a long process with many obstacles to contend with along the way. However, understanding these challenges can help workers take steps to make their case stronger.
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