Railroad work is physically demanding—and not all injuries happen in a single accident. Many workers develop pain and long-term conditions over time from repeated motion, strain, and unsafe working conditions. If you’re dealing with ongoing pain from your job, you may be wondering:
Can you file a FELA claim for a repetitive stress injury?
The short answer is yes—under the right circumstances, you can.
What Is a Repetitive Stress Injury?
A repetitive stress injury (RSI) develops gradually due to repeated motions, overuse, or prolonged strain on the body. Unlike a sudden injury, these conditions build over time and often worsen if left untreated.
Common examples include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Back and neck strain
- Shoulder injuries from repetitive lifting
- Knee injuries from constant climbing or bending
For railroad workers, these injuries are often caused by:
- Repetitive lifting of heavy equipment
- Operating vibrating tools or machinery
- Poor ergonomics or unsafe work environments
- Long shifts with limited recovery time
Does FELA Cover Repetitive Stress Injuries?
Under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), railroad workers can seek compensation when their injury is caused—at least in part—by employer negligence.
That includes repetitive stress injuries.
However, unlike workers’ compensation claims, a FELA claim requires you to prove that:
- Your employer was negligent, and
- That negligence contributed to your injury
How Employer Negligence Applies to RSI Cases
To successfully file a FELA lawsuit for a repetitive injury, you must show that your employer failed to provide a reasonably safe work environment.
Examples of negligence may include:
- Failing to provide proper tools or equipment
- Requiring unsafe work practices or unrealistic workloads
- Not addressing known safety hazards
- Ignoring complaints about repetitive strain or pain
- Lack of training on proper lifting or ergonomics
Even if your injury developed over months or years, your employer can still be held responsible if their actions (or inaction) contributed to it.
Why Repetitive Injury Claims Can Be More Challenging
FELA claims involving repetitive stress injuries are often more complex than single-incident injuries.
Here’s why:
- There’s no “exact date” of injury
- Employers may argue the injury is due to aging or non-work activities
- Medical documentation must clearly connect your condition to your job
Because of this, strong evidence is critical.
What Evidence Helps Support Your Claim?
If you believe you’ve been hurt at work due to repetitive strain, documentation is everything.
Helpful evidence includes:
- Medical records and diagnoses
- Work history showing repetitive tasks
- Incident reports or complaints made to supervisors
- Testimony from coworkers
- Expert medical opinions linking your injury to your job
The earlier you begin documenting your condition, the stronger your case can be.
How Long Do You Have to File a FELA Claim?
FELA has a three-year statute of limitations, but repetitive injuries are handled a little differently.
The clock typically starts when:
- You knew (or should have known) your injury was work-related
This is called the “discovery rule.”
Because timing can be complicated in RSI cases, it’s important not to wait too long to take action.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A FELA claim allows you to pursue compensation beyond what traditional workers’ compensation provides.
You may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or impairment
When Should You Contact a FELA Lawyer?
If you’re experiencing ongoing pain from your railroad job, don’t ignore it—or assume you don’t have a case.
You should speak with a lawyer if:
- Your symptoms are getting worse over time
- Your job involves repetitive physical tasks
- Your employer has not addressed safety concerns
- You’ve been diagnosed with a work-related condition
Talk to a FELA Lawyer About Your Case
Repetitive stress injuries can be just as serious—and just as life-changing—as sudden accidents. If your condition is connected to your work, you may have the right to file a FELA claim.
At Kujawski & Associates, we help injured railroad workers understand their rights and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Don’t wait to get answers.
If you’ve been hurt at work, contact our team today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options.
