A former railroad engineer claims he developed lung cancer after he was exposed to asbestos throughout his career.
Gary W. Davis filed a lawsuit June 5 in the St. Clair County Circuit Court against Union Pacific Railroad Company.
In his complaint, Davis alleges he was diagnosed with lung cancer following a 38-year career as a hostler, fireman and engineer for Union Pacific. During that time, he was exposed to various toxic substances, including asbestos, diesel exhaust, environmental tobacco smoke, silica and creosote, which led to his disease, according to the complaint.
Because of his cancer, Davis suffered great pain and disability, lost his enjoyment of life and suffered mental anguish, the suit states. He also suffered extreme nervousness, incurred great costs and lost income, the complaint says.
He blames the railroad for causing his injuries, saying it failed to monitor the system to determine whether employees’ exposure to asbestos was below prescribed limits, failed to provide special clothing, failed to collect work environment samples and failed to implement proper engineering controls, among other negligent actions.
Davis is seeking a judgment of more than $100,000, plus costs. He is being represented by William P. Gavin of Gavin Law Firm in Belleville.
St. Clair County Circuit Court case number 14-L-477.
Railroad worker claims lung cancer due to asbestos exposure
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