Is Ohio River Water Safe?

On February 3, 2023, a train derailed near the town of East Palestine, Ohio. The Norfolk Southern train derailment involved around 50 railcars. 

Some of these cars were carrying a toxic chemical called vinyl chloride—a compound used primarily to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC is a common plastic material used in a variety of applications, including construction materials, piping, electrical cables, and medical devices. 

Vinyl chloride can also function as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals, including chlorinated solvents found in various industrial processes.  

However, the use of vinyl chloride in these applications has declined due to concerns about its toxicity and potential health effects. Vinyl chloride is a hazardous substance, and exposure to high concentrations can cause serious health effects. 

When the Norfolk train derailed, significant amounts of vinyl chloride and other toxic contaminants poured into the Ohio River. Other types of pollutants were released into the air near the crash.  

This terrifying mishap has left many people wondering, “Is Ohio River water safe?” Agencies in several states are currently exploring the safety of the water in the Ohio River. 

If you believe that you have suffered harm because of the Norfolk Southern train derailment, you should speak with a legal professional promptly. One of the skilled attorneys at Morgan & Morgan will determine the validity of your case.  

We will not rest until you receive the compensation you are entitled to as a victim. Complete the form on the Morgan and Morgan website to schedule a free consultation. 

Outcomes of the Train Derailment in East Palestine, Ohio

Many residents near the train crash were concerned about their water quality afterward. 

One of the contaminants that spilled into the Ohio River is known as butyl acrylate. This chemical is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive fruity odor. It is a member of the family of acrylate monomers, which are used to make polymers and copolymers. 

Butyl acrylate regularly serves as a component in the production of homopolymers and copolymers. These compounds are useful in the manufacturing of coatings, adhesives, sealants, and textiles. 

Butyl acrylate is highly flammable and can pose health hazards when inhaled or ingested. This is because it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It’s important to take safety precautions while handling, storing, or transporting the chemical. 

The Norfolk Southern train derailment resulted in large amounts of butyl acrylate filtering into the Ohio River. Over five million U.S. citizens source their drinking water from the Ohio River. 

This chemical spill has the potential to affect larger cities in the region, including Cincinnati and Louisville. Numerous smaller communities could suffer as well. 

If you believe that you have sustained damage as the result of the Norfolk Southern rail accident, reach out to Morgan & Morgan today.

Is Ohio River Water Safe to Drink in My Area?

Local water utility agencies are monitoring the situation regarding the safety and potability of water from the Ohio River. It is critical to ensure that people do not ingest any meaningful amounts of the toxins that spilled in the derailment. Doing so could result in long-term, consequential health conditions. 

For example, drinking butyl acrylate can cause the following medical concerns:

Gastrointestinal Problems

Drinking butyl acrylate can cause victims to suffer serious gastrointestinal issues. The victim’s digestive system may become seriously inflamed or irritated, resulting in the following symptoms: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain  

If you have suffered these signs or symptoms and you live in an area affected by this train derailment, speak with a medical professional. You may be owed significant compensation if another party’s negligence caused the physical harm you are experiencing.

Eye and Skin Irritation

When people come into contact with butyl acrylate, they may experience significant eye and skin irritation. The effects of this contaminant on a victim’s skin can include: 

• Blisters
• Irritation
• Redness  

If water containing butyl acrylate gets in a person’s eyes, they can suffer: 

• Redness
• Severe discomfort and irritation
• Blindness—in extreme cases 

These medical issues can cause victims to miss work, accumulate medical bills, and experience other negative consequences. Do not allow a negligent party to go unaccountable for this type of physical and financial damage.

Central Nervous System Issues

Drinking butyl acrylate and other contaminants can cause long-lasting damage to victims’ central nervous systems. These outcomes can be life-changing and devastating. 

Some of the resulting nervous system effects caused by ingesting butyl acrylate include: 

• Loss of coordination
• Recurring headaches
• Confusion and cognitive deficiencies
• Persistent dizziness and loss of balance

No matter what medical issues you have developed as a result of the Norfolk Southern train crash spill, it is critical to seek care. A medical professional will provide you with an accurate diagnosis and help you secure the care you need. 

It’s also important to speak with a legal professional as soon as you can. You may be entitled to significant financial compensation for the losses you experienced.

Claims Against Norfolk Southern

Victims of the Norfolk Southern train derailment may have valid claims for financial damages. This will depend on the nature of the harm they sustained.  

The health impacts of the spill are unknown so far. However, those who develop long-lasting and costly medical issues may be entitled to compensation. 

Skyrocketing medical bills should not be the responsibility of the victims. Instead, any negligent party responsible for their costs and losses should compensate those affected. 

The specific medical costs from butyl acrylate ingestion will depend on the severity of the exposure and the resulting health effects. If a victim’s exposure is minimal, the medical costs may be relatively low. However, significant exposure could result in severe symptoms and substantial medical bills. 

For example, suppose someone ingests butyl acrylate as a result of drinking Ohio River water after the Norfolk Southern train derailment. In this case, they may need emergency medical treatment to curb the resulting effects.  

This may include gastric lavage, administration of activated charcoal, or other costly medical treatments. The victim may also require monitoring for a period to ensure their recovery.  

The cost of these interventions can be significant, and victims deserve justice. Other medical expenses from this type of injury typically include bills from: 

• Hospitalization
• Ambulance rides
• Emergency room visits
• Prescription medication
• Follow-up care 

If the ingestion of dangerous chemicals leads to long-term health effects such as respiratory or neurological damage, the victim may need ongoing care. They may also require medication and rehabilitation. 

The total cost will depend on the individual circumstances and can vary widely. When victims of corporate negligence suffer significant medical bills, they should not have to bear the costs.  

Fortunately, the accomplished legal specialists and Morgan & Morgan know how to effectively recover the money our clients are due. When you speak with a member of our team, we will help you determine the best path forward.