No company created under and by virtue of the laws of this state or of any other state or country, having and operating a railroad in this state, shall establish, maintain, or assist in establishing or maintaining a relief association or society, the rules or bylaws of which require a person or employee becoming a member of such association or society to enter into an agreement or stipulation, directly or indirectly, whereby he stipulates or agrees to surrender or waive a right of damages against any railroad company for personal injuries or death, or to surrender or waive any right in case he asserts such claim for damages.
R.C. § 4973.01