How Long Do FELA Lawsuits Take to Process?

For more than 100 years, FELA lawsuits have helped to keep railroad workers safe in some of the most hazardous workplaces. FELA settlements and trial awards can include compensation for medical costs loss of wages, discomfort and pain.

Contrary to cases involving workers' compensation, FELA allows recovery of non-economic damages, such as suffering and pain. This is why FELA cases are often recognized with significant jury verdicts.

How long will a FELA case take?

Many factors can impact the length of time required to resolve the FELA case. For instance, whether the case is filed in a state or federal employers’ liability act court, how long is required between the time an injury occurs and when the lawsuit is filed and other specifics of the case can influence the time it takes to receive an agreement. Your attorney can estimate the time required to process your FELA claim to be processed.

Another factor that may impact the time frame a FELA case is the speed in which you can gather medical evidence to support your claim for injury. This could be a crucial element in your case because it will help you get the most compensation. In some cases in the event that you fail to obtain medical evidence promptly the claim could be denied due to a statute of limitations.

The last factor that could affect the duration of the FELA lawsuit is the speed at which your employer and you can come to a fair settlement. In some instances the lawyer and you may be able settle your FELA case without having to go to court. This can be accomplished through alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation arbitrage, negotiated agreements, or mandatory settlement conferences.

Some employees may be worried about whether filing a FELA complaint could affect their relationship with their employer. It is nevertheless important to know that FELA laws prohibit employers from taking retaliatory action against employees who make a claim. Additionally, FELA claims bypass the limits on benefits set by workers' compensation laws and allow railroad workers who are injured to claim monetary compensation for pain and suffering.

To make a FELA lawsuit, your attorney must prepare the complaint. This document outlines your claims against your employer. After your lawyer file the complaint, the employer is given the opportunity to respond and explain any defenses. This can be a long process, since your lawyers will have to conduct thorough investigations of workplace safety practices and gather evidence in support of your claim.

What is the consequence if I don't win an agreement?

In FELA cases railroad workers injured in FELA cases can recover damages for past, future and current medical costs, lost wages, the pain and suffering. Since railroad workers generally earn significantly more than blue-collar workers working in other industries, their FELA awards tend to be more substantial. It is not unusual for FELA cases to settle for large amounts of money.

A professional attorney is the first step towards filing a FELA suit. An attorney will evaluate the details of your accident and determine if you have a valid claim for damages. If you have a valid case your lawyer will assist you in completing the required paperwork and conducting thorough investigation into the incident and employer's reaction to your claim.

After the investigation is concluded the attorney will then send a claim for damages to your employer. Your employer can then accept a settlement or proceed with a trial. Trials are costly and time-consuming, which is why most FELA cases are settled before they reach the court.

During this period you and your attorney will gather medical records, as well as other evidence to highlight the severity of your injury. Your lawyer will also look for witnesses who can testify on your behalf. In addition, you can opt to pursue legal funding which could provide you with money according to the estimated settlement.

Pre-settlement Legal Funding does not require a credit check or a review of your past financial history. After looking over your application, a pre-settlement lawful financing company will provide you with a quote that highlights the terms and conditions of your loan. Accepting the quote could result in you receiving thousands of dollars before the case is closed.

What happens when I lose my case?

Depending on the severity of your injury is, you may need to undergo medical treatment for a time before you can settle. Your lawyer will collect evidence while you wait for a settlement including medical records that demonstrate the severity of your injuries as well as witness testimony to prove your claim. If needed your lawyer can help you get pre-settlement legal aid to pay for ongoing medical treatment and living expenses until you receive an all-inclusive settlement.

A lot of FELA cases settle prior to trial, because both sides are usually driven to avoid costly and risky court action. However, appeals may cause delays in the case at various stages, and sometimes even after the verdict has been delivered. You can always contact a railroad injury lawyer for more details in these instances.

What happens If I lose my case?

Railroad workers who are injured typically receive an extensive settlement from their employers, since they have a right to claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and suffering. In addition, railroad employees have a higher income than blue-collar workers and have higher costs of living, which means they can be compensated for greater economic damages.

It is important to realize that it can take some time to reach a settlement. This is because FELA lawsuits often involve several different steps, including litigation and discovery. If one of the parties files a appeal, it can also cause long delays.

During this time, the attorney can gather evidence such as medical records and documents that highlight the severity of an injury. They can also seek out witnesses to be witnesses on their behalf. If the injured worker requires additional financial support during this procedure, he or she may also seek financing options, including a legal funding loan before settlement.

A pre-settlement legal fund company analyzes the case and other aspects to determine how much they can provide in a loan. This is different from a personal loan which requires a credit assessment and financial history. Talk to an FELA claim attorney today to learn more on how to begin.