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.
Freeman is a city in Hutchinson County, South Dakota, United States. The population was 1,317 at the 2000 census. Located in southeastern South Dakota - in the center of a triangle formed by Sioux Falls, Yankton and Mitchell - the city of Freeman has a population of about 1,300 and serves a community of about 8,000. Established as a railroad stop in 1879, Freeman quickly became a center for immigrants, primarily Germans from Russia, who had arrived in the mid-1870s. The town was not officially incorporated until 1893. By that time, however, Freeman had already become a center for residences, education, commerce and services. And that foretold the town's destiny. Today, Freeman enjoys a strong sense of history and tradition. Freeman's slogan "Rich Heritage, Bright Future" is more than just words. Three examples are the Freeman Area Veterans Memorial along Sixth Street, the Heritage Hall Museum Complex south of the Freeman Academy campus and Schmeckfest, the annual celebration of the ethnic foods and traditions held every spring. The community continues to reflect the agricultural base on which Freeman was established 130 years ago. But today this thriving city also reflects a broad-based economy that includes strong retail, professional services and manufacturing components. The community's commitment to education - as demonstrated by two strong schools - is balanced by its appeal as a retirement center. The comprehensive medical services and sense of community appeal both to families seeking a good environment for raising children and senior citizens wanting to retire in comfort and security.