East Palestine Train Derailment – Are You At Risk?

Ohio Governor’s Office

Vinyl Chloride Exposure & Contamination – What You Should Know

What is Vinyl Chloride?

Vinyl Chloride is a regularly used chemical in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic and vinyl products.

Symptoms of Vinyl Chloride Exposure

“The most common signs of vinyl chloride inhalation affect the nervous system. Individuals with exposures can experience dizziness, difficulties with balance and walking, fatigue, numbness and tingling of the extremities. In extreme circumstances, exposures can lead to coma and death. There are also symptoms not related to the nervous system. These include eye irritation, irritation of mucous membranes (mouth, tongue, nostrils), and respiratory tract irritation resulting in wheezing and/or cough. Skin exposure can lead to frostbite.” explains Dr. Allison Kreiner, MD of Plakas Mannos.

On February 3rd, 10 cars of a Norfolk Southern train carrying hazardous materials, including vinyl chloride, derailed in East Palestine, Ohio causing a massive chemical fire that continues to burn. Originally, individuals residing within a one-mile radius of the crash site were ordered to evacuate; however, because of a growing concern that an explosion may be imminent, Governor Mike DeWine and local officials have expanded the evacuation area and have begun a “controlled release” to vent the chemicals from the cars in an effort to avoid explosions.

The Potential Environmental Impact

The United States EPA is currently monitoring air and water contamination. Air monitoring sample results are expected February 8^th. Water runoff samples were also taken and the results are expected February 7-8^th. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is on sight and assessing the impact on aquatic life.

You can take the following steps if you believe you have been exposed:

• If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911
• Contact a medical provider if you experience the symptoms above.
• Document symptoms in a diary or timeline.
• Notify your primary care provider of your exposure.
• Consider visiting an occupational and environmental health clinic. These clinics “specialize in recognizing, evaluating, and treating illnesses from exposure to hazardous substances,” including vinyl chloride. CDC Source.

• Contact Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (“ATRSD”) Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences to report or get information about an exposure.
• Contact an attorney at Plakas Mannos to inquire about your rights.

Resources:

• People that need help evacuating their homes should call the East Palestine Police Department at 330-426-4341
• Columbiana County General Health District is keeping their website up to date. They encourage residents to call 211 for updates.
• East Palestine Information Facebook Page
• ATRSD – Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
  • Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences
    4770 Buford Highway
    Chamblee, GA 30341-3717
    Phone: 1-800-CDC-INFO 888-232-6348 (TTY)
    Email: Contact CDC-INFO
• United States EPA response

March 13, 2024 Ruling

On March 13, 2024, motions filed by Norfolk Southern and other Defendants seeking to dismiss the East Palenstine residents' class action lawsuit were denied. Read the latest orders:

• Order Denying New Party Defendants motion to dismiss
• Order Denying NS Motion to Dismiss

The Experienced Trial Attorneys of Plakas Mannos are Available to Answer Your Questions.

If you concerned that you or a loved one may have been affected by the toxic chemicals released during the derailment catastrophe in East Palestine, and have questions about your rights, please reach out to us. Plakas Mannos includes experienced trial attorneys and medical analyst, Dr. Allison Kreiner, MD. We can provide you with the support and assistance you need during this difficult and worrisome time.

Call 330-453-LION to speak with our team at Plakas Mannos.