Bunnell v. Burlington Northern Railroad

Roger Bunnell brought an action in the district court under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, 45 ILS.C. § 51 et seq. (1988), against Burlington Northern Railroad Company (Burlington) seeking damages for bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome allegedly suffered as a result of Bunnell’s employment at Burlington’s Alliance, Nebraska, facility. The jury returned a special verdict in favor of Burlington, and Bunnell appeals. Burlington cross-appeals the court’s denial of costs for deposition expenses incurred by Burlington.

Bunnell was employed as a machinist for Burlington for 14 years prior to his…