Early observations by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources revealed that 3,500 small fish had died. Still, locals observed captive animals and livestock dying following the burn. Later statements from the Department of Natural Resources admitted that the toxic release of chemicals was the likely cause of more than 43,000 marine animals dying in the area. Material from the crash was observable as oily residue in creeks, streams, and rivers, which made the rounds on social media. All the while, state, federal, and Norfolk Southern officials insisted there was nothing to worry about and that life could continue as usual.
While gas pollutants generally dissipate in the air, some experts are more concerned with the dioxins produced during the burn. Dioxins have more staying power and are linked to many severe illnesses/
Residents who returned after being given the go-ahead soon began complaining of rashes, sore throats, nausea, and headaches, all of which are symptoms of phosgene gas exposure and other chemicals. Of course, this caused great alarm and concern, as it should. Unfortunately, our country has a long history of making people feel safe about toxic chemical spills when the reality is officials simply don't have enough information to make these calls, even if the scientific testing equipment says all is good. The issue is that because of the burn and the combination of chemicals, even experts aren't certain of the compounds produced. Thus, they don't really know what to test for, making it impossible for residents to trust the results and ignore obvious warning signs and symptoms they're experiencing firsthand and can see with their own eyes.
One resident began feeling ill within 30 minutes of returning home and decided that her family couldn't stay and risk their health. Rashes, nausea, and sore throats reported by many can't be a coincidence. Another issue is the lack of response from Norfolk Southern, especially in the early aftermath. The multi-billion dollar company offered $1000 to residents initially for the "inconvenience." But where are these people supposed to go on $1000? Another more pressing concern is the present-day and long-term health effects of toxic phosgene exposure. These people will now have the possibility of developing devastating and expensive health problems for the rest of their lives, along with lost property value and income.
Unfortunately, Morgan and Morgan have much experience dealing with big companies that want to avoid accountability for their negligence. We are determined to make Norfolk Southern pay for the harm they've caused to the innocent people of East Palestine. Since the February 3rd derailment, yet another Norfolk Southern derailment has taken place in Ohio, raising serious concerns about the railroad's commitment to the safety of citizens across this nation. Although no hazardous materials leaked in this derailment, how many malfunctions will it take for them to prioritize safety?
Sometimes making an example of a wrongdoer is the only way to make a dent in corporate greed, so Morgan and Morgan have filed a lawsuit against Norfolk Southern on behalf of the victims in East Palestine, Ohio. We are working hard to ensure those affected by the East Palestine derailment will be compensated for this environmental disaster. The damages we are seeking on your behalf include the following:
- Medical monitoring
- Injunctive and declaratory relief
- Damages related to injuries
- Loss of property value
- Emotional distress
- Increased risk of severe future health issues
- Punitive damages
The decision to burn off chemicals instead of completing a more lengthy and costly cleanup was likely the worst possible. However, it got their trains up and running quickly, which we might argue is what mattered most. We intend to make them pay.
If you or a loved one have suffered symptoms of phosgene exposure or have experienced financial losses due to the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment, contact Morgan and Morgan. We're here to help.