Earlier this year, an accident involving two locomotives and several of their trailer or container cars occurred, leading to a derailment. Photos shared on social media showed containers floating in the Lehigh River. Fortunately, government officials confirmed that no one was injured, and no toxic materials were released.
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The Lehigh River, a tributary of the Delaware River, is a source of drinking water for over fifteen million Pennsylvanians, according to a report by a local non-profit. Over ten freight train cars from three trains left the rails and plunged into the river, causing diesel fuel spillage and the release of plastic pellets. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) promptly arrived at the scene and determined that an eastbound train had collided with a stationary train on the track. The wreckage from the eastbound train spilled onto the adjacent track and was subsequently struck by a westbound train, resulting in a major derailment involving two separate trains moving in opposite directions.
The Northampton County Emergency Management Services and the Lehigh County Hazardous Materials (HM) team were the closest authorities in charge of managing the accident and handling hazardous materials. Both teams arrived at the scene, which was reportedly about 10 miles east of Allentown. They reported no evacuations, no container leaks, and no injuries. County Executive Lamont McClure stated, “Some of the derailed cars were marked as containing hazardous material. However, when opening them, they were empty.” He also mentioned that air monitoring systems showed normal air levels despite the diesel fuel and plastic pellets that spilled into the river.
Lower Saucon police chief Thomas Barndt reported at a subsequent news conference that containment booms had been set up to capture the spill. Train crew members stranded on the river shore were safely pulled back up to the road with ropes. Norfolk Southern, the company managing the trains and the Lehigh Line, dispatched contractors and crews to the scene to answer questions and clean up the area.
This incident highlights the potential dangers of train derailments, which can lead to significant environmental damage and pose serious risks to public health and safety. It reminds us of the importance of strict safety protocols and timely response measures to mitigate harm.
“Personal injury cases resulting from such accidents can be complex and challenging. It’s crucial for victims to understand their rights and seek legal representation to fight to receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses,” says Attorney Rich Godshall of Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers. Our firm is dedicated to advocating for those affected by such unfortunate events, helping them navigate the legal process and rebuild their lives.”
