Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC 2025-12-24T07:57:57Z https://www.gowhistleblower.com/feed/atom/ WordPress On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[Whistleblowing on infrastructure fraud in the railroad industry]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48831 2025-10-19T13:58:51Z 2025-10-19T13:58:51Z The role of whistleblowers in uncovering fraud Employees, contractors or even third-party vendors who witness irregularities can file confidential reports to expose fraud. Laws such as the False Claims Act and the Whistleblower Protection Act provide avenues for individuals to report fraud against the government and may even entitle them to a portion of the recovered funds as a reward. These reports can prompt:
  • Internal investigations
  • Government audits
  • Criminal prosecutions
By helping to ensure funds are used appropriately and safety standards are met, whistleblowers contribute directly to the reliability and sustainability of transportation infrastructure.

Protecting whistleblowers from retaliation

Despite legal safeguards, many potential whistleblowers fear retaliation, such as:
  • Job loss
  • Demotion
  • Blacklisting
To address this, agencies and organizations are required to maintain confidential reporting systems and uphold anti-retaliation policies. Dedicated legal support can also empower individuals to speak up safely and effectively. Encouraging a culture of transparency within the industry can make reporting fraud not only safer but also respected as a public service. Whistleblowers play an indispensable role in protecting the integrity of the railroad industry’s infrastructure. Their courage in exposing fraud and misconduct helps prevent accidents, preserve public funds and promote accountability in large-scale transportation projects. Seeking legal guidance can help these individuals to exercise their rights in an informed, protected manner.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[How might railroad workers be exposed to carcinogens on the job?]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48830 2025-10-07T12:04:41Z 2025-10-07T12:04:41Z Railroad workers play a vital role in keeping transportation networks running smoothly, but their jobs often come with hidden risks. While derailments, accidents and physical injuries may be the most visible dangers, long-term exposure to harmful substances can also pose significant health threats. One of the most concerning issues is exposure to carcinogens.  These substances may not be immediately apparent, but they can have lasting effects on a worker’s health even years after the initial contact. Understanding how railroad workers encounter carcinogens is essential for both prevention and advocacy. 

Diesel exhaust exposure

Locomotives and other equipment powered by diesel engines produce fine particles and gases, including benzene and formaldehyde, both recognized carcinogens. Workers, such as engineers, conductors and maintenance crews, often spend hours in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces where these fumes accumulate, leading to chronic inhalation. Over time, repeated exposure increases the risk of developing lung cancer, throat cancer and other respiratory illnesses.

Asbestos in older equipment and facilities

For much of the 20th century, asbestos was widely used in railroad construction materials, including brake linings, insulation and gaskets. Although its use has declined, many older trains, railcars and facilities still contain asbestos.  When these materials are disturbed during maintenance or demolition, microscopic asbestos fibers can be released into the air. Once inhaled, they can lodge in the lungs and cause serious conditions such as mesothelioma. 

Creosote in railroad ties

Another lesser-known carcinogen in the railroad industry is creosote, a chemical preservative used to treat wooden railroad ties. Creosote contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), some of which are known to cause cancer. Workers who handle treated ties or work near freshly replaced tracks can be exposed through skin contact or by breathing contaminated dust.  Railroad workers face numerous occupational hazards, but exposure to carcinogens is particularly concerning because of its long-term, often irreversible effects. Workers who believe they have been exposed to carcinogens on the job should enlist dedicated legal guidance to determine how to secure compensation for treatment. ]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[Social media activity can hurt your False Claims Act case]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48829 2025-10-03T14:52:16Z 2025-10-03T14:52:16Z Bringing a claim under the False Claims Act is a serious undertaking that requires discretion, credibility and a strong legal strategy. Whistleblowers who expose fraud against the government play an important role in protecting taxpayer dollars, but – very unfortunately – their cases can be undermined by something as simple as a social media post.  If you are thinking about acting as a whistleblower, understand that what you share online can become powerful evidence used against you, and in the context of a False Claims Act case, even casual activity may damage both your credibility and your claims.

What’s the big deal?

One of the biggest risks in remaining on social media while your claim is pending is the risk of unintentionally revealing too much. If you discuss or even hint at your case, your employer or the suspected fraud online, you may inadvertently disclose information that is protected or confidential. This could not only weaken your case but also expose you to retaliation or claims that you breached workplace policies.  Even posts that seem unrelated to the case can raise problems. Something as simple as sharing frustrations about an employer or joking about work can be twisted to suggest bias, exaggeration or personal vendetta. Defense attorneys may point to these posts as evidence that you filed a claim for revenge rather than defense of the public interest. Because credibility is central in whistleblower litigation, protecting your online reputation is as important as protecting your evidence. Another issue involves preserving confidentiality. False Claims Act cases are initially filed under seal, meaning they are kept confidential while the government investigates. Any social media post that hints at the case during this period could jeopardize the investigation or even violate court orders. Such missteps can lead to sanctions and may put the entire case at risk. Opposing parties often comb through social media looking for inconsistencies or statements that can be used to challenge a whistleblower’s motives or integrity, so it is important to be even more conservative in your approach than you would ordinarily think is necessary. You may even want to stay off social media altogether, unless advised otherwise by a skilled legal team.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[FELA claims: Does partial fault disqualify you?]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48826 2025-09-22T19:29:18Z 2025-09-22T19:27:34Z Under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), railroad workers who are injured on the job have the right to seek compensation for injuries caused by their employer’s negligence. You may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and even future care with a FELA claim.  If you were partly responsible for your workplace accident, you may be wondering how that affects your ability to file a FELA claim. Can you still pursue compensation even if you share some blame? The short answer is yes.

Know your rights

You can still file a FELA claim to recover damages even if you were partly at fault for a work-related accident. The law only requires that your employer’s negligence contributed in some way to the incident, no matter how small. That said, your share of fault matters. FELA follows a comparative negligence approach in such instances. This means that your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault you bear. For example, if your total damages amount to $100,000 but you were 20% at fault, your compensation would be $80,000, and so on.

Secure the compensation you deserve

Railroad companies and their insurers may try to downplay the extent of your injuries or heap the blame on you to protect their interests. If you take this lying down, you could end up with an unfair settlement that doesn’t cover the full cost of the harm and losses you suffered. As an injured railroad worker, reaching out for early legal guidance is crucial, whether you contributed to your workplace accident or not. The proper support can go a long way in building a strong case, navigating the complex claims process and protecting your rights.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[5 common workplace accidents at railroad jobs]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48824 2025-09-04T18:08:11Z 2025-09-04T18:08:11Z Railroad work is one of the most dangerous and challenging professions in the nation. Railroad workers frequently put their lives on the line for the economy. When a railroad worker is injured on the job, it can jeopardize their entire livelihood and future career opportunities.   Here are a few common types of accidents and injuries that railroad workers can experience: 

1. Slips and falls

A railroad worker may trip, slip and fall while on the job. This can happen if they slip on slick surfaces, trip over cords or debris or fall into hidden holes. A slip-and-fall accident can lead to sprains, fractures and head trauma.

2. Heavy equipment accidents

Railroad workers frequently work with heavy equipment, such as tractors, excavators and cranes, for fast and efficient work. Lack of training or misuse of heavy equipment can lead to serious injuries, including broken bones, spine injuries and amputations.

3. Electrocution

While working on railroads, workers may be exposed to high-voltage equipment or surfaces or live wires. Exposure to electrical surfaces or live wires can lead to electrocution and severe burns. Severe burns can cause nerve damage and cognitive difficulties. 

4. Hazardous material exposure

Railroad workers may be exposed to hazardous materials while on the job, including asbestos, lead and diesel exhaust. Long-term exposure to dangerous chemicals and materials can lead to brain damage, lung cancer and other diseases.

5. Repetitive motion and strains

Some equipment used on railroads can put a serious strain on workers. Long-term use of heavy equipment can lead to joint damage, repetitive motion injuries and strain.  Railroad workers may be eligible for compensation and support under FELA. Workers who are suffering from cuts, burns, sprains, broken bones or traumatic brain or spine injuries after a workplace injury may need to learn about their legal rights.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[3 steps to take before acting as a whistleblower]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48823 2025-08-22T10:45:41Z 2025-08-22T10:45:41Z It takes courage for railroad employees to act as whistleblowers. Although the Federal Railroad Safety Act (FRSA) protects railroad employees from unlawful whistleblower retaliation, they still generally need to protect themselves.  Here are some of the things railway employees intending to act as whistleblowers could do to protect themselves. 

1. Establishing private documentation 

Railroad workers intending to act as whistleblowers likely need documentation of the safety or legal violations they witnessed. That way, even if they lose access to email or job sites due to a sudden termination from their position, they can still prove that misconduct occurred and that they have certain rights as whistleblowers. 

2. Consulting with a lawyer

Whistleblowing creates a variety of risks, making compliance with legal standards of the utmost importance. Workers trying to verify that their circumstances require whistleblowing and ensuring that they adequately protect themselves typically need the support and insight of a lawyer. Proper guidance can make it easier to document the situation, comply with reporting requirements and effectively invoke the law as necessary. 

3. Managing internal and external reporting simultaneously

Whistleblowers who advise supervisors, managers or compliance officers of their concerns may find themselves targeted for unfair discipline. Their employer might potentially try to cover up the situation by destroying records, altering documents or performing work previously left incomplete before regulatory authorities conduct inspections.  By ensuring that any internal reporting occurs simultaneously with the reports made to external authorities, workers reduce the likelihood of railroad companies manipulating the situation through additional misconduct.  Having a plan in place before acting can protect a professional from whistleblower retaliation. The right steps can make a major difference for railroad employees who become aware of unsafe circumstances or unlawful billing practices.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[What to do as a victim of Railroad Worker Injuries (FELA)]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48820 2025-08-15T19:03:52Z 2025-08-15T19:03:52Z If you are a railroad worker who has been injured on the job, it is natural to feel uncertain about what comes next. The physical pain can be overwhelming, and the confusion about your rights only adds to the stress. The Federal Employers Liability Act, known as FELA, was designed to protect you in exactly this situation. Unlike regular workplace injury systems, FELA holds railroad companies accountable when they fail to provide safe conditions.

Get medical help right away

Your health comes first. If you are hurt while working, seek medical attention immediately. This is not just about your recovery but also about having proper documentation of the injury. Medical records provide key evidence that can support your case later on. Keep copies of every appointment, test result, and prescription.

Notify your supervisor without delay

Make sure to report the injury to your supervisor as soon as possible. Be thorough with details about what happened, where it happened, and what you were doing at the time. Include all names of any coworkers who witnessed the event and keep in mind that this report will likely be reviewed if you decide to pursue a FELA claim.

Keep a personal record

Alongside the official report, create your own written account of the incident. Include details that might not appear in the employer’s version. Add how the injury has affected your day-to-day life, including your ability to work and interact with family. This record helps tell the full story of what you are going through.

Save any evidence

Preserve any pieces of evidence that may help prove your side of the story. Keep messages, emails, photos, or anything proving you were working in unsafe conditions, and if you have witnesses nearby, ask them to document what they saw.

Seek legal guidance

Railroad injury claims under FELA can be complex and often involve strict deadlines. Getting reliable legal guidance early can help you make informed choices and protect your rights. With the right support, you can focus on healing while still taking the necessary steps toward fair compensation.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[Traveling to a worksite can be dangerous for railroad workers]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48819 2025-08-06T14:41:07Z 2025-08-06T14:41:07Z Car crashes are a common job hazard Workers in many different industries occasionally travel on public roads and even off-road while on the clock. As such, motor vehicle incidents are among the leading causes of serious worker injuries and preventable worker mortality. The FELA can apply to any job-acquired medical condition affecting railroad employees. Both blue-collar workers performing hands-on maintenance or installing tasks and white-collar professionals, such as engineers, may have the right to seek compensation after a crash while accessing a remote work site. FELA benefits can help cover current and future medical expenses. They may also be able to help workers replace lost wages until they can return to their positions with their employers. Generally, however, they need to show that negligence or fault on the part of the railroad contributed to their injuries. Employers demanding that workers travel on unpaved roads or in poorly-maintained fleet vehicles could be examples of scenarios where FELA compensation could follow a crash. The process of securing compensation for work injuries can be more complex than a simple workers’ compensation claim. Injured railroad workers may need help evaluating their circumstances to determine if they are eligible to seek compensation under the FELA. Documenting an injurious incident and acting promptly after a diagnosis of a work-acquired medical condition can help railroad employees make use of the laws in place for their protection. Railroad workers may be eligible for financial compensation after sustaining car crash injuries while on the clock.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[Could reporting railroad safety concerns endanger a worker’s job?]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48818 2025-08-04T20:27:50Z 2025-08-04T20:27:50Z Whistleblowers have legal protection Railway workers who are aware of safety violations or issues with infrastructure have protection under federal law if they act as whistleblowers. Whistleblowing can involve internal reports made to management or compliance officers at the company. Doing so should not result in any form of retaliation, such as an unfavorable transfer, demotion or termination. Whistleblowers who work for railroads also have protection in scenarios where they go directly to regulatory agencies. The more documentation they have of the safety issues and their attempts to address the matter, the easier it may be to prove that the company unfairly retaliated against them for doing the right thing for the safety of the public. Those who endure retaliation after reporting safety issues may have grounds to take legal action. Securing guidance and support when deciding to act as a whistleblower could reduce the likelihood of employer retaliation. Whistleblowers often need support while learning about their rights and taking appropriate steps to protect themselves, and that’s okay.]]> On Behalf of Charles Goetsch Law Offices LLC <![CDATA[Industry group seeks repeal, relaxation of safety standards]]> https://www.gowhistleblower.com/?p=48817 2025-07-18T17:00:04Z 2025-07-18T17:00:04Z Whenever one president leaves the White House and another comes in, a lot of things can change – particularly when they’re of different political parties and have very different priorities. That’s certainly been the case this year.  Let’s look at one example that will affect railroads and those who work in the industry. It’s a change that the Association of American Railroads (AAR) is advocating for the Trump administration to make.

Repealing the two-person crew rule

In the last year of the Biden administration, a federal rule was implemented that requires freight trains to have two-person crews. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) finalized the rule in April 2024. The AAR, which represents six Class I railroads located in the U.S. and Canada, is seeking a repeal of the rule and resumption of single-person crews. This is part of the AAR’s goal of limiting regulations that inhibit innovation and have no effect on safety.  The AAR cites a study that found that returning to a requirement of just a one-person crew, as many smaller railroads already have, would save almost $265 million over the first decade, even with a gradual change. According to the AAR, the requested change would still require two-person crews on trains transporting some hazardous materials. It also claims the FRA has no safety data supporting the mandate for a two-person crew.

Fewer brake inspections

This isn’t the only safety measure the group wants relaxed or eliminated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This includes fewer brake inspections. According to the AAR, “Collectively, these changes would reduce unnecessary regulatory burden while continuing to meet USDOT’s responsibility to ensure the safety of the nation’s transportation system.” Regardless of what any data may or may not show, relaxation in safety standards for railroads can potentially result in more injuries and an increase in the severity of injuries for workers. It’s more crucial than ever for workers to know their rights when it comes to getting fair compensation for their injuries. Having experienced legal guidance can help protect those rights.]]>