In early February of 2023, a disastrous train derailment at the Ohio-Pennsylvania border jeopardized the health of thousands. The train was carrying several hazardous materials on board when it crashed. To avoid a possible explosion, crews slowly released and burned carcinogenic chemicals that polluted the air. Ohio train derailment lawyers are helping residents file claims for illnesses and injuries related to the toxic chemicals released. If you or a loved one was affected by the East Palestine disaster, we can help you. Contact The Lake Law Firm today to speak with one of our Ohio train derailment attorneys.
Our law firm is currently investigating claims of injuries caused by toxic exposure in East Palestine, Ohio. Have you experienced illnesses or respiratory problems? Don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about how The Lake Law Firm can support you in an Ohio train derailment claim.
On February 3, just before 9 pm ET, a train derailed near East Palestine, Ohio. The town, located near the border of Pennsylvania, has a population of about 4,800 people. While the train was carrying mostly safe cargo, several cars contained toxic materials. No one was injured, and investigators believe a mechanical issue with the rail car’s axle was to blame.
Two days later, officials started evacuating residents out of fear of an explosion. Crews began releasing combustible chemicals into nearby trenches and burning the substances to get rid of them. Shortly after the controlled burn, on February 8, officials lifted evacuation orders and allowed residents to return.
Unfortunately, residents returned to nightmarish conditions. Residents reported thousands of dead fish in the waterways and other dead animals throughout the area, such as chickens, opossums, dogs, and more. The EPA has assured residents that the remaining chemicals are not at levels that are a risk to public health. However, residents describe a lingering chemical odor and persistent symptoms of toxic exposure like coughing, nausea, and headaches.
11 of the 20 cars containing hazardous materials derailed. The dangerous chemicals released into the environment of East Palestine, Ohio, include:
The volatile cargo spilled into the area of East Palestine poses a serious risk to public health. All of the chemicals listed above are associated with a range of various acute or chronic side effects. Residents may experience a variety of symptoms caused by exposure to these chemicals, such as:
You should seek medication attention if you notice any signs of toxic exposure. Communicate with your doctor if you believe you inhaled the chemicals released at East Palestine. Once you have received the appropriate medical care, speak with a lawyer to find out what your legal options are going forward.
Some health experts recommend future monitoring for residents of East Palestine, Ohio. It is uncertain how these harmful chemicals will react with one another, and inhalation is not the only problem. These chemicals may have leeched into the soil and water supply, leading to long-term exposure. Extended exposure to the chemicals involved in Ohio train derailment lawsuits may cause:
Overall, the long-term health impacts of the train derailment are unknown. This has left residents feeling unsafe in their own homes and communities. The Lake Law Firm is here for you during these frustrating and frightening times. Our Ohio train derailment lawyers are available for a free case evaluation to determine if you qualify to file a claim.
Individuals are pursuing claims against Norfolk Southern, the rail company responsible for the train. Ohio train derailment lawsuits allege the company exposed residents to cancer-causing agents. Furthermore, residents argue Norfolk Southern’s efforts to clean up the spill only made matters worse for public health. Plaintiffs claim they face severe health threats due to the toxic exposure and Norfolk Southern’s poor response.
One class action lawsuit filed on February 15 accuses Norfolk Southern of doing a controlled burn rather than choosing a safer containment method to save on costs. The burning released phosgene (used as a chemical weapon in World War I) and hydrogen chloride into the atmosphere. Plaintiffs demand medical screenings for individuals near the East Palestine area and undetermined damages.
Has your life been impacted by the train accident? Contact the Ohio train derailment lawyers at The Lake Law Firm immediately to discuss how we can fight for you.
If the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment affected you, you may recover compensation for any or all of the following:
In addition to bodily harm and ailments from toxic fumes, the incident has placed financial stress on residents. Some business owners lost significant revenue during the evacuation since they could not operate. Furthermore, other residents are paying for soil and water testing at their properties out of pocket.
The aftermath of the train crash has brought physical and economic devastation to the people in and near East Palestine, Ohio. One of our Ohio train derailment lawyers can walk you through the steps to seeking justice for this preventable catastrophe.
Since these claims are relatively new, there is currently no Ohio train derailment settlement or verdict. We could see substantial settlement amounts due to the high levels of dangerous chemicals released. However, many factors can influence how much you collect in an Ohio train derailment settlement or verdict, such as:
The Lake Law Firm offers free case evaluations to help you understand how much your case might be worth. You can contact us today to find out if you are eligible for a lawsuit at no cost to you.
The Lake Law Firm was founded by Edward J. Lake, Esq., a personal injury lawyer for over 25 years. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who have suffered injury or death due to the negligence of others. Our experienced attorneys handle many different types of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and other defective products. The lawyers in our firm have helped collect millions of dollars for their clients. An Ohio train derailment lawyer from The Lake Law Firm will advocate for you and your rights. Please contact us for a free confidential case evaluation at (888) 525-3529 or submit an inquiry on this page.
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