While workers’ compensation is governed by and processed under state law, FELA claims are governed by and processed under federal law. Injured railroad workers can bring a lawsuit against their employer and other at-fault parties in state or federal court, and they have a right to a trial by jury. Workers’ comp, on the other hand, is processed through the railroad company’s insurer, and the employee usually waives their right to a lawsuit by accepting these “no-fault” benefits.