You could deserve compensation if you developed Parkinson’s disease from exposure to Paraquat, a toxic chemical used as an herbicide. Agricultural workers and commercial farmers have used it in the United States since 1964. Due to its toxicity, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers it a Restricted Use Pesticide (RPU). Only certified, trained applicators can use it. If Paraquat has injured you, call our experienced personal injury attorneys to file a Paraquat lawsuit.
Research shows a link between Paraquat exposure and the development of Parkinson’s disease, a severe nervous system disorder. Early symptoms include hand tremors, which eventually worsen into slowed movement, stiff muscles, and loss of automatic movements such as blinking. Performing routine tasks is increasingly challenging as the disease progresses.
Despite knowing about the harmful effects of exposure to the chemicals in Paraquat, manufacturers did not disclose the risks. Syngenta, Chevron Chemical Company, or another negligent manufacturer might be liable for your diagnosis.
For decades, Hach & Rose, LLP has represented clients harmed by others’ wrongdoings, helping them get accountability and compensation for their suffering. Our Paraquat lawsuit lawyers can review your case and see if you’re eligible to join a mass tort lawsuit. Call us at (212) 779-0057 today or reach out to us online for your free consultation.
Why Do I Need a Paraquat Lawsuit Lawyer?
The companies manufacturing the popular herbicide have deep pockets and teams of experienced attorneys to defend them from civil lawsuits. Holding them accountable for their misconduct is a time-consuming and complicated process. Pursuing legal action alone will likely lead to a negative outcome.
After seeking legal representation, you should only bring a case against a Paraquat manufacturer. Hach & Rose, LLP knows how to investigate legal matters involving defective products and can gather the evidence to prove you developed Parkinson’s disease from Paraquat exposure. Our team will create a strategy to recover the money owed to you and fight for the justice you deserve.
Why Hire Hach & Rose, LLP?
The attorneys of Hach & Rose, LLP have more than 100 years of combined legal experience and have secured more than a billion dollars for our clients to date. Many prestigious organizations have recognized our work, including the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Super Lawyers, and New York magazine. We also hold an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest peer rating awarded to the leading attorneys in the country.
Hach & Rose, LLP understands the financial strain of treating a disease like Parkinson’s. You might worry that you can’t afford an attorney while paying your medical bills. However, there are no upfront fees or costs to engaging our services. We take cases on contingency, which means we don’t collect our legal fees unless we secure compensation for our clients.
What is Paraquat and How Does it Cause Parkinson’s Disease?
Paraquat is an herbicide used to kill unwanted weeds and grass. Approximately 377 companies manufacture the product for licensed applicators. Gramoxone is one of the most popular brands manufactured by Syngenta.
Although Paraquat effectively controls weeds’ growth, it contains highly toxic chemicals that can have adverse health effects. Licensed applicators are at the greatest risk of exposure.
Researchers believe long-term exposure damages the brain’s neurons responsible for producing dopamine. The loss of dopamine impairs fine motor skills, one of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder affecting the nervous system. Tremors are typical in the beginning stages of the disease. Eventually, the tremors worsen, and other symptoms start to develop, such as:
- Rigid muscles
- Slurred speech
- Slow movement
- Trouble writing
- Reduced ability to blink, smile, and perform other unconscious movements
- Changes in posture and balance
Compensation for Exposure to Paraquat
If you developed Parkinson’s disease after exposure to Paraquat, you might qualify for a mass tort lawsuit against one of its manufacturers. The compensation you receive could cover your:
- Prescriptions, hospitalization, and other medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Incidental out-of-pocket expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional or mental anguish
Punitive or exemplary damages may also be recoverable. This financial award punishes the defendant for their actions rather than compensating her for a particular loss. You must show clear and convincing evidence of the defendant’s gross negligence or egregious conduct to get these damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hach & Rose, LLP knows how overwhelming it can be to navigate the complexities of a mass tort case. Below are answers to our most commonly asked questions. You should review them to better understand eligibility for a Paraquat lawsuit and what to expect during your case.
What are the symptoms of Paraquat exposure?
Paraquat exposure can occur in various ways, such as:
- Accidental ingestion
- Inhalation
- Direct skin contact
- Drinking contaminated water
Exposure to the dangerous chemicals in Paraquat can cause multiple signs and symptoms, including:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Kidney failure
- Dehydration
- Diarrhea
- Electrolyte abnormalities
- Low blood pressure
- Vomiting
- Heart failure
- Lung scarring
Is There a Deadline to File a Paraquat Lawsuit?
You must adhere to the statute of limitations in your state if you want to sue a manufacturer for Paraquat exposure. The statute of limitations allows a specific timeframe to file a lawsuit against another party. Typically, the timeframe is between one and five years, depending on where you live.
What Is a Mass Tort Lawsuit?
A tort is a civil wrong that causes someone harm. A mass tort involves a group of people who have suffered harm because of the same underlying civil wrong. You can combine individual lawsuits from multiple plaintiffs into a single action against one defendant.
Each plaintiff must have injuries due to similar circumstances caused by a defendant’s misconduct. In a Paraquat mass tort, the common action is a manufacturer failing to warn consumers of the risk of Parkinson’s disease.
Plaintiffs can work together on parts of the case that apply to everyone. However, working separately is necessary if certain aspects differ from one person to another. The financial award is not the same for all plaintiffs. The court will determine an appropriate compensation based on every lawsuit’s unique circumstances.
Contact an Experienced Paraquat Lawsuit Lawyer Today
The Paraquat exposure attorneys of Hach & Rose, LLP are ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve. Don’t let the company that hurt you get away with the suffering it caused. It is your right to pursue legal action to have the financial security you need to live your life to the fullest.
If you developed Parkinson’s disease or another medical condition from Paraquat exposure, call the New York defective product attorneys of Hach & Rose, LLP at (212) 779-0057 immediately for your free consultation.