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.
Chester is a city located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River Valley in Randolph County, Illinois. The population was 8,400 at the 2000 census. It is the county seat of Randolph County and is located 63 miles (101 km) south of St. Louis, Missouri. With Chester being the county seat, the elected county officials are Terry Luehr-Board Member, Terry Moore-Chairman, Ken Slavens-Board Member, Randall Rodewald-State's Attorney, Randy Dudenbostel-Coroner, Fred Frederking-Sheriff, Shirlie Robinson-Treasurer, Wayne Voss-County Supervisor Of Assessments, Pat Laramore-County Clerk, and Barbara Brown-Circuit Clerk </ref>