The Buffalo Creek Disaster: How the Survivors of One of the Worst Disasters in Coal-Mining History Brought Suit Against the Coal Company- And Won - Book reviews of The Buffalo Creek Disaster: How the Survivors of One of the Worst Disasters in Coal-Mining History Brought Suit Against the Coal Company- And Won

'The Buffalo Creek Disaster: How the Survivors of One of the Worst Disasters in Coal-Mining History Brought Suit Against the Coal Company- And Won' book reviews

Review for'The Buffalo Creek Disaster: How the Survivors of One of the Worst Disasters in Coal-Mining History Brought Suit Against the Coal Company- And Won'

"The Buffalo Creek Disaster: How the Survivors of One of the Worst Disasters in Coal-Mining History Brought Suit Against the Coal Company - And Won" by Gerald M. Stern is a gripping and poignant account of a tragic event that not only devastated a community but also fundamentally changed how corporate negligence is legally addressed in the United States.

On February 26, 1972, a coal slurry impoundment dam owned by the Pittston Coal Company in Logan County, West Virginia, burst, unleashing 132 million gallons of black wastewater upon the residents of Buffalo Creek Hollow. The flood obliterated homes, claimed the lives of 125 people, and left thousands more injured and homeless. Stern, a young lawyer at the time, took on the monumental task of representing the survivors in a legal battle against the coal company, seeking justice and compensation for the unimaginable losses they endured.

Stern’s narrative is both an engrossing legal drama and a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of the Buffalo Creek community. The book meticulously details the events leading up to the disaster, offering a chilling look at the corporate negligence that allowed such a catastrophe to occur. Stern exposes how Pittston Coal Company ignored repeated warnings about the stability of the dam, prioritizing profit over safety. This negligence is laid bare through Stern’s meticulous documentation and compelling storytelling.

The heart of the book, however, lies in Stern’s recounting of the legal battle that followed the disaster. The author takes readers through the arduous process of gathering evidence, interviewing survivors, and navigating the complexities of the legal system. His determination to hold Pittston accountable is palpable, and his narrative sheds light on the broader implications of the case for corporate accountability and environmental justice.

Stern doesn’t shy away from depicting the emotional toll of the disaster on the survivors. Through interviews and personal anecdotes, he brings to life the stories of those who lost loved ones, homes, and a sense of security. These personal accounts are interwoven with the legal proceedings, creating a powerful juxtaposition between the human cost of the disaster and the often cold, bureaucratic world of the courtroom.

One of the most striking aspects of Stern’s book is its exploration of the legal concept of "psychic impairment," which was used to argue that the survivors deserved compensation not only for physical injuries but also for the emotional and psychological trauma they endured. This innovative legal strategy set a precedent and underscored the importance of recognizing the full spectrum of harm caused by such disasters.

"The Buffalo Creek Disaster" is more than just a legal thriller; it is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of fighting for justice. Stern’s eloquent prose and unwavering commitment to his clients make this book an unforgettable read. It serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of corporate negligence and the crucial role of the legal system in holding companies accountable. For anyone interested in environmental law, corporate ethics, or the resilience of communities in the face of disaster, Gerald M. Stern’s book is an essential and enlightening read.

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