TRAIN DERAILMENT LAWYERS
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Injured Due to The Recent Train Derailment? Call the Best Injury Lawyers in Ohio
Were you impacted by the recent toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, near Pennsylvania? The nation’s attention has turned to eastern Ohio since the derailment occurred on February 3.
Since then, more questions have been raised than answers provided about how the derailment occurred and, more importantly, how the resulting toxic chemical spill will affect the health of East Palestine residents.
What Is Known About the East Palestine Train Derailment
On February 3, 2023, at approximately 9 p.m. local time, a train pulling approximately 150 cars derailed near the town of East Palestine, Ohio. About 36 of the train’s cars derailed, including 11 that were believed to be carrying toxic substances. These harmful substances included vinyl chloride, an ingredient found commonly in PVC plastic resin.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has not concluded its investigation into the cause of the derailment, but preliminary reports suggest a faulty wheel bearing may be the culprit behind the crash. No person on the train or on the ground was physically injured in the initial derailment.
Toxic Substances and Symptoms That Have Emerged
Several harmful substances were identified as having been spilled into the air and water of East Palestine.
Vinyl chloride is a colorless gas that is often transported in a compressed, liquid form. Butyl acrylate is a clear toxic liquid that is used to manufacture paints, caulking materials, and adhesives. Other hazardous chemicals identified in the train’s manifesto included ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, isobutylene, and ethylhexyl acrylate.
Exposure to these substances is known to cause a variety of physical symptoms, including the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Nose, throat, and lung irritation
- Headaches and dizziness
- Nausea
- Chemical burns from coming into contact with the toxic substances
Long-term exposure to vinyl chloride has been linked to liver damage and certain forms of cancer.
Is the Air and Water Safe in East Palestine?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has assured the public that the air and water in East Palestine are safe for residents. The only individuals who have been cautioned to use bottled water are those who draw their water from a private well.
The chemicals that have been detected in the air and water in and around East Palestine are believed to be at safe levels, according to federal authorities.
Rights of East Palestine Residents Impacted by the Train Derailment
If initial impressions are correct and a faulty wheel bearing is the cause of the train derailment, then East Palestine residents who are experiencing health complications may have legal rights.
Careless inspection of rail cars or negligent maintenance of rail cars that leads to a derailment and spill can expose various companies to legal liability for injuries and losses.
Through a successful personal injury lawsuit, residents may be able to recover the costs associated with medical care, clean-up of impacted private property, lost wages due to missed work, and emotional pain and suffering. Compensation may also be available for residents later if long-term health complications are linked to this derailment and exposure.
Call our Ohio Train Derailment Lawyers Today!
Since 1982, Schiff & Associates’ experienced attorneys have provided Columbus with trusted legal representation in personal injury and wrongful death cases. We understand that financial recovery from an accident is just as important as physical recovery, and we have a history of getting clients the results they deserve. Our team of experienced Columbus train derailment attorneys can help you and your family get the rightful compensation that you deserve. Contact us today to get the best train derailment attorneys working for you.
The trusted team at Schiff & Associates has offered the Columbus, Ohio area experienced legal representation in cases of personal injury and wrongful death since 1982. Recognizing that financial recovery from an accident is just as important as a physical recovery, we have a record of successfully getting our clients the settlements they deserve. If you have been in an auto accident that resulted in injuries, please contact the area’s top car accident lawyer.