Law Firm Offers Legal Options After Derailment

Residents in East Palestine are feeling frustrated with the slow progress of the $600 million settlement with Norfolk Southern following the 2023 train derailment. Just Well Law, an Austin-based firm specializing in environmental toxin cases, recently held meetings in Columbiana to discuss individual action against the railroad for those who opted out of the class action lawsuit. They also talked about options for those who did opt-in.

The firm is investigating claims against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and will be filing SF-95 forms for all clients as required under the Federal Tort Claims Act. Just Well Law wants to represent families and individuals impacted by the hazardous materials released during the derailment. They are working on claims related to both the derailment itself and the cleanup process, focusing on each client individually rather than as part of a class action.

While many residents opted into the class action lawsuit, Just Well Law wants to make it clear that filing an individual claim does not interfere with the class action process or personal injury payments. The firm believes that there may be additional avenues for compensation beyond the settlement agreement.

The payout process from the settlement has been slow and confusing, with some residents receiving amounts below expectations. Just Well Law’s founder, Kristina Baehr, expressed concern that the class action may have fallen short in helping residents who are still struggling with health issues and contaminated surroundings.

With just one more week to sign up potential clients, the firm acknowledges that they were focused on other litigation, including a mass tort lawsuit involving a fuel spill in Hawaii. Baehr herself has personal experience with toxic exposure, leading her to establish Just Well Law to help others in similar situations.

Residents impacted by the train derailment can reach out to Just Well Law through their website, email, or phone to discuss potential claims and options for seeking compensation. The firm is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the legal process and seek justice for the harm they have experienced.