;)
March 3rd, 2023
It’s been one month since a Norfolk Southern operated freight train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, and released more than 100,000 gallons of toxic chemicals. A total of 38 train cars derailed in the incident. 11 of those cars carried hazardous materials. 12 more cars were damaged by fire. Amongst the escaping chemicals discovered was vinyl chloride – a chemical that has been associated with liver cancer. More than a dozen lawsuits in federal court on behalf of local residents have already been filed.
The lawsuits being pursued so far focus on damages for acute injuries from inhalation or exposure to these chemicals along with trying to establish a long-term medical monitoring program where residents can receive medical testing and screenings in an effort to catch any exposure-related conditions early and at a stage where they could potentially be more successfully treated. In addition, claims are being pursued for acute damage to property, losses of business revenue, and the long-term loss of property values in the contaminated area.
The cases filed so far include four class action lawsuits relating to these damages categories. But more are likely to follow in the coming days. If you believe you have been impacted by this disaster, you should contact an experienced law firm with a track record of experience in handling toxic tort, environmental, and medical monitoring cases to explore your rights. Learn more here.
