Illinois Central Railroad named in FELA suit

Anthony Lynch of Clinton, Ill. filed a Federal Employers’ Liability Act suit in U.S. District Court in East St. Louis Nov. 23, alleging Illinois Central Railroad (ICR) failed to provide him a safe place to work.

Lynch, who has worked for ICR since 1979, claims the railroad required him to walk and work in large, oversize ballast and ride on locomotives over rough tracks on defective seats over the years. As a result, he claims permanent injuries to his back, bilateral knees and hands.

According to the suit, Lynch's injuries were a result of ICR’s failure to provide reasonably safe work conditions, safe methods, an ergonomics program or safe equipment.

Lynch also claims ICR failed to provide adequate protection from exposure to cumulative trauma, training, safety or personal protective equipment or adequate help. The suits states that Lynch was required to repetitively use his hands and arms in awkward positions.

According to Lynch, his injuries caused him to undergo x-rays and painful tests, sustain pain and suffering, lose wages and incur medical expenses.

“Lynch’s ability to work, labor and enjoy the normal pursuits of life have been impaired and lessened all to his damage in a sum to be determined,” the suit states.

Lynch also claims that ICR used a locomotive which was not in proper condition and which could not be safely operated without unnecessary peril of life and limb.

Represented by Patrick O’Brien of St. Louis, Lynch is seeking damages in excess of $150,000 plus costs of the suit.

The case has been assigned to District Judge Michael Reagan.

05-CV-00833-MJR-CJP