Recently, OSHA told the railroad industry in no uncertain terms that reporting an illness or injury is an important right and that retaliation is illegal. The agency's language was clear and its meaning left little room for interpretation. As support for its strong opinion, OSHA made clear that reporting railroad injuries and illnesses benefits the entire railroad industry. What are those benefits and should you contact a New York railroad lawyer if you are penalized for reporting a legitimate injury or illness?
Potential Benefits of Reporting Railroad Injuries and Illnesses
The proper reporting of New Jersey and New York railroad injuries and illnesses protects:
- Injured Workers. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is to the injured worker. In the absence of reporting the worker may not get the medical attention or benefits that he or she deserves.
- Other Workers. If a report of a railroad injury or illness is not made, then other employees may be at greater risk of suffering similar injuries or illnesses in the future.
- Employers and Contractors. If the employer, or contractor, does not learn of the dangerous condition, then it might not be corrected which could harm not only other workers but also the employer.
For these reasons, the entire railroad industry benefits when an injury is properly reported.
Contact a New York Railroad Lawyer for More Information
If you have been hurt or contracted an illness from working on the railroad, then you may need legal help to get the recovery that you deserve. Please contact an experienced New York railroad attorney today at 1-800-362-9329 to learn more about your rights and potential recovery.