Benzene

Several decades ago, the federal government named benzene a hazardous air pollutant based on evidence suggesting that exposure to the chemical was linked to certain cancers, particularly leukemia. Since then, studies have consistently proven that benzene is, in fact, carcinogenic. Despite this knowledge, benzene is one of the most commonly used industrial chemicals. Railroad workers are especially susceptible to suffer the harmful effects of benzene as a result of solvent exposure.

If you are a railroad worker who has suffered the serious effects of benzene through solvent or other exposure, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Please contact a FELA lawyer who can inform you of your legal rights and options.

Benzene Dangers: Long-Term Effects of Exposure

Short-term exposure to benzene can cause drowsiness, headaches, unconsciousness, or irritation of the eyes, skin, or respiratory tract. However, benzene becomes more dangerous with repeated or prolonged exposure. The following are among the known benzene dangers:

  • Anemia
  • Decreased function of the immune system
  • Acute myelogenous leukemia
  • Acute lymphocytic leukemia
  • Various cancers of the bones and bone marrow

Many of these illnesses can have profound effects on an individual’s quality of life, and may even lead to death. Countless railroad workers who have lost the ability to work and worse because of benzene-related cancer and other health conditions.

Benzene Dangers and the Law

The Federal Employers Liability Act was passed to protect the rights of railroad workers who have suffered injury as a result of unsafe working conditions. Under FELA, railroad workers can hold their employers liable for work-related railroad injuries. Individuals who qualify to file a FELA lawsuit may be entitled to recover damages to cover medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and more.

If you or your loved one has developed cancer or other serious health condition because of benzene exposure, please contact a FELA lawyer today for a free case evaluation to determine your eligibility to recover damages through a FELA lawsuit.

Learn more about other types of railroad injuries and dangers: