Railway company office workers can file a FELA claim if they meet specific criteria and can show their injury was work-related and caused by the railroad’s negligence.
Eligibility criteria for FELA
Employment by a railroad
The injured person must be employed by a railroad company engaged in interstate commerce.
Job-related injury
The injury must occur while performing job-related duties.
Negligence
The injury must be caused, at least in part, by the negligence of the railroad company, its agents, or employees.
Office workers and FELA claims
Whether an office worker qualifies depends on the nature of their role and how the injury occurred.
Nature of employment
Office workers whose roles are closely tied to railroad operations may qualify for FELA coverage. This can include dispatchers, clerks, and administrative staff whose work is essential to daily operations.
Circumstances of the injury
To qualify, the injury must be work-related and tied to negligence. For example:
- a slip and fall caused by unsafe office conditions
- injury from defective equipment provided by the employer
Legal precedent
The U.S. Department of Labor states that FELA applies to railroad workers injured while employed by a railroad engaged in interstate commerce. Courts have extended this coverage to certain office roles when they are integral to operations.
For example, dispatchers coordinating train movement or administrative staff handling critical logistics have successfully pursued FELA claims.
In one case, a dispatcher developed repetitive strain injuries due to poor ergonomic conditions and was able to recover under FELA.
In another, an administrative assistant injured by falling office equipment successfully obtained compensation.
Steps to take if you are an injured railway office worker
1. Report the injury
Notify your supervisor immediately and ensure an official report is created. This documentation is critical.
2. Seek medical attention
Get treatment as soon as possible and keep detailed records of all medical care.
3. Contact a FELA attorney
Contrary to common concerns, the railroad cannot fire you for hiring a lawyer. You are entitled to your own representation.
An attorney can investigate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with the railroad, and take your case to trial if necessary to pursue full compensation.
