Railroad worker injuries are covered under the Federal Employees Liability Act which requires that a railroad maintains their fleet, ensuring that their trains are in good working order and free of defects. If a railroad does not comply with these standards, they may be liable for injuries to their workers. Damages railroad workers may receive include medical treatments, present and future lost wages and mental trauma. An injury on the railway can range from a minor sprain to a spinal injury so severe that it leads to death. Some of the most common injuries that affect railway workers are head trauma, knee injuries, back injuries, neck injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, brain trauma or spinal cord injuries. The Federal Employees Liability Act protects railroad workers and others as diverse as clerical employees whose day-to-day functions do not directly involve trains or outdoor activity.
Alexander City is a city in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, United States. At the 2000 census the population was 15,008. According to the 2005 U.S. Census estimates, the city had a population of 14,957. Locals refer to Alexander City as "Alex City" . Alexander City is known for Lake Martin with its 750 miles (1,210 km) of wooded shoreline and 44,000 acres (178 km²) of crystal clear water. Lake Martin is located on the Tallapoosa River and offers boating, swimming, fishing, golfing, and camping. Many neighborhoods and luxury homes are located on the lake. Russell Corporation, maker of Russell Athletic, Cross Creek, Jerzees, and Country Cottons apparel, was founded in 1902 and is a large employer in the city. The company is headquartered in the city, but has shared this status with Atlanta since 1998, when the need for an office in a larger city was understood. Recently, the number of workers employed by Russell Corporation in Alex City has been on a steady decline due to Russell moving more and more production overseas. On April 17, 2006, Russell Corporation was bought by Berkshire Hathaway for an estimated $600 million. Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett's company, also owns such companies as Fruit of the Loom and GEICO. The company will continue to operate as Russell Corporation, but its workers and CEO will report to Fruit of the Loom.