In an ideal world that might make some sense. In the real world, it is simply not the case. Here's why: The moment an injury occurs, the machinery of the railroad claims and law departments moves quickly to establish evidence minimizing the railroad's financial responsibility to the worker and his family. They take statements and photographs trying to blame the injured worker and make the railroad look innocent.
Railroads often act "two-faced" in injury situations. They will talk about how the railroad is one big "family" and how you need to stick with them at times of crisis. They might offer to pay medical expenses (which is something they are already obligated to do under the insurance contracts) and put the injured worker's family up at a nice hotel and agree to take care of living expenses. While they are doing this, an army of investigators and lawyers are researching all aspects of the claim to deny compensation.
Who at this crucial time is actually looking out solely for the injured railroad worker? No one; unless you have talked to knowledgeable designated counsel.
Designated legal counsel acts exclusively for the injured railroader, protecting and aggressively promoting the rights of the injured worker and the worker's family against the power and might of the giant railroad corporations. A knowledgeable FELA attorney works with you and union officials to develop evidence establishing the railroad's liability and maximizing the compensation owed by the railroad.
It must always be remembered that however nice a claim agent might be, the claim agent's responsibility is to the corporation, not to the injured individual's family. It is the claim department's job to keep settlements as low as possible for the financial benefit of the corporation. They employ a wide range of tactics, but the key is to gain your trust when you are especially vulnerable.
Immediate legal advice from trusted designated counsel assures knowledge. And "knowledge is power". If an injury is minor, such as a sprained ankle, it might not be necessary to hire a lawyer. But it is always wise to talk to a knowledgeable attorney to know your rights because even a minor ankle sprain may lead to complexities concerning sickness benefits, health coverage, railroad investigations, pain and suffering, future problems, contract release language, etc. It is, therefore, best to contact designated counsel for a free consultation so that you can make informed decisions.