U.S. railway company Norfolk Southern has agreed to pay $600 million to settle a lawsuit linked to a train accident in Eastern Ohio.

The accident took place in February 2023 on the outskirts of East Palestine, near the Pennsylvania state line. About 50 cars of the train derailed, some carrying hazardous materials. The accident led to an evacuation of 1,500 to 2,000 residents of the town, out of approximately 4,800 to 4,900 residents. 

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How Norfolk Southern Settles Lawsuit in Ohio Train Derailment

According to AP News, the settlement will cover claims within a 20-mile radius of the accident and personal injury claims within a 10-mile radius. Residents and businesses affected by the accident can use the compensation for various purposes, including healthcare needs and property restoration. 

The accident's impact is described as devastating, considering the evacuation, concerns about health consequences, and ongoing legal and investigative proceedings. The settlement, subject to court approval, is expected to begin payments later this year. 

Despite the settlement, Norfolk Southern doesn't admit any wrongdoing. 

The company has already spent over $1.1 billion on the accident response, including aid to affected communities. Railroad CEO Alan Shaw stated that the company will commit to becoming more efficient as the lawsuit proceeds. 

Meanwhile, federal officials stated that the accident aftermath didn't qualify as a public health emergency, although concerns remain about long-term health impacts. 

Investigations into the accident's cause are ongoing.

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