Best Toxic Chemical Lawyers Near Me

East Palestine Ohio Train Derailment Lawyers

The recent train derailment on February 3, 2023,  in East Palestine, Ohio, has exposed residents to toxic chemicals and has left many feeling uncertain about the future. Many of the residents of East Palestine have lived in the area their whole life. They will suffer the implications of this catastrophic train derailment and toxic chemical exposure for years.

Helping the Hurt is dedicated to holding the parties that caused this disaster accountable for their negligence. Please click the link below to get a free case evaluation. 

Knowing Your Rights During Toxic Exposure

When it comes to toxic chemical exposure, being aware of your rights is crucial to getting the compensation you deserve. You have the right to seek compensation if:

  • Rent or own property in East Palestine
  • Experience a medical issue now or in the future from Chemical Exposure
  • Lost Wages due to evacuation
  • Mental anguish resulting from the accident
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The release of chemicals in East Palestine, Ohio, has put toxic chemicals into the local air, water, and soil. This event has contaminated farmland and killed local wildlife, including 3,500 fish.

After returning from the evacuation, residents reported a burning sensation in their eyes and foul order. While some symptoms of chemical exposure may manifest right away, others can take months or years to manifest into issues.

If you believe that your health and safety were jeopardized due to this toxic chemical exposure, you should seek immediate legal advice from a qualified lawyer who specializes in this area. You can receive a  free consultation from Helping the Hurt for your chemical exposure lawsuit by clicking the button below.

We will only take your case if we believe you have a valid chemical exposure lawsuit, and we will only get paid if you win. This means you pay nothing until your case reaches a fair settlement.

Toxic Chemical Release Timeline

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February 3 - At 9 pm, a Norfolk Southern freight train experienced a catastrophic break failure which led to the derailment of 100 train cars. 10-20 of these cars carried highly flammable chemicals, including butyl acrylate, benzene residue, and vinyl chloride.

February 5 - Governor Mike Dewine orders an evacuation of residents within one mile of the derailment due to a risk of explosion.

 

February 6 - Norfolk Southern launches a "controlled burn" of the vinyl chloride to prevent an explosion releasing approximately one million pounds of contaminants into the air.

February 8 - The evacuation order is lifted, and residents can return to their homes.

February 10 - Multiple residents that return home experience a rash and nausea. 

February 21 - The state of Ohio opens a health clinic for residents who worry that their symptoms, such as trouble breathing, rashes, and nausea, might be linked to the derailment.

How Toxic Are These Chemicals?

The train that derailed in East Palestine was carrying a combination of different carcinogenic (Cancer causing) substances.

The worst of these substances is Vinyl Chloride. Immediately after exposure, symptoms can include fatigue, dizziness, eye irritation, and respiratory irritation.  

Long-term exposure can lead to 

  • Liver cancer:
  • Brains and Lung Cancers:
  • Lymphoma
  • Leuikema

Approximately one million pounds of Vinyl Chloride were incinerated into the air of East Palestine, Ohio, and surrounding areas.

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You are Not Forgotten

After a traumatic event like this, you may feel like there is no hope and that the systems put in place to protect you have failed you.

We're here to tell you there is hope. Helping the Hurt is here to help get the compensation you are entitled to and hold the guilty parties accountable.

For too long, companies have put profit in front of safety. According to railroad employees, the train's excessive weight and length were leading factors in this crash. Another incident of greed being put in front of public safety.

Clicking the button below will connect you with one of our chemical exposure lawyers, who will fight on your behalf to right the wrongs done to you.

Free, No-Obligation Consultation

Beware of Offers Too Good To Be True

Toxic exposure lawsuit claims can have a vast range of complexity, with no two cases being the same.

Cases dealing with toxic chemical exposure can be highly unpredictable, requiring extensive background research and a thorough understanding of the laws.

An experienced toxic chemical exposure lawyer is often essential to navigate these complex cases and ensure that victims of chemical exposure receive the compensation they deserve.

What matters most is that those responsible for any injuries caused by toxic chemical exposure are held accountable for their actions or lack thereof. 

A sound legal strategy and evidence-based information will be necessary to achieve a successful outcome in these cases.

While taking compensation for this accident without filing a lawsuit may be tempting, it is essential to talk to an attorney before accepting any payment or signing any kind of document.

Otherwise, you may unintentionally waive your rights at compensation!

Getting Started with a Toxic Exposure Lawyer

A Toxic Chemical Exposure Lawyer will review the information obtained during the investigation process to file a lawsuit. Your attorney will include the following in your claim:

  • Injuries
  • Damages
  • Negligent Behavior 
  • Request Compensation

With solid legal representation and effective preparation, plaintiffs can maximize their chances of obtaining satisfactory compensation.

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Our team of committed attorneys will help you receive the compensation you deserve for your chemical exposure case. You should never have to handle a legal issue alone. 

If you or a loved one needs help after the chemical exposure incident in East Palestine, Ohio, please click the button below for a free case review with one of our expert chemical exposure lawyers. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Toxic Exposure

What compensation is available for victims of the East Palestine train derailment?

The compensation available for victims of the East Palestine train derailment and toxic chemical exposure could vary but generally compensation will include the following:

  • Medical and health-related expenses
  • Lost income
  • Damage to property or possessions.

Victims may also seek compensation for emotional distress, such as fear, anxiety, depression, shame, and alienation from their exposure.

Furthermore, punitive damages may be available if the responsible party knowingly or recklessly exposed the victim to a toxic chemical.

Finally, lawyers specializing in this area of law may be able to help victims obtain compensation for attorneys' fees and other costs associated with their legal claims.

Who is legally liable for exposing people to toxic chemicals in East Palestine, Ohio?

Generally speaking, the legal liability for exposing people to toxic chemicals can lie with various parties.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to who is legally liable for exposing people to toxic chemicals. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident, more than one party may be responsible, and all involved parties should be held accountable for their role in the harm caused by exposure.

What resources are available for the victims of the East Palestine train derailment and toxic chemical exposure?

There are a variety of resources available for victims of toxic chemical exposures, including legal assistance and support services.

Legal assistance can provide individuals with the guidance they need to seek proper compensation for the damage done by toxic chemicals.

A good toxic chemical exposure lawyer may be able to help victims access court systems and guide them through the process of filing a lawsuit or preparing insurance claims. Additionally, legal professionals can provide resources such as factsheets, research articles, and other material about relevant laws and regulations that victims may need for their case.

Support services are also available for victims of toxic chemical exposure. These may include social workers, therapists, and support groups who can provide guidance and advice throughout the recovery process. Additionally, many health organizations and nonprofits offer information on health concerns related to toxic chemical exposure—everything from condition management to mental health and educational programs—to help victims get back on their feet.

What is the statute of limitations for toxic chemical exposure?

The Statute of Limitations is a rule stating that you have a certain amount of time to bring forth a claim of injustice.

In the case of Chemical Exposure, a plaintiff has three years from the time of discovery of injury to file a lawsuit.

Depending on where you live, the statute of limitations could vary drastically.