Have you been, or do you believe you were exposed to paraquat? Were you diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease? If so, do not hesitate to contact the Dallas drug injury lawyers of The Benton Law Firm. We can review your case and advise you whether you can pursue compensation from the manufacturer. It is your right to file a lawsuit against the negligent company and hold them liable for their actions.
The Benton Law Firm knows how much you have suffered since paraquat exposure. Your diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease likely disrupted your life and caused a range of debilitating symptoms.
Parkinson’s disease is a serious nervous system disorder that interferes with the body’s ability to move correctly. It can impair physical functioning while walking, talking, writing, and performing other routine tasks. It’s possible to manage your symptoms with medications, but it can be expensive and lead to financial strain.
You should reach out to The Benton Law Firm right now to discuss the available legal options. We could represent you against the manufacturer to seek the money you’re owed for the adverse effects of paraquat on your body and your life. Call us right now at (214) 777-7777 for your free consultation.
How Paraquat Exposure Can Occur
Classified as a “restricted use” chemical by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, only licensed applicators, such as agricultural workers and farmers, are permitted to use paraquat. The herbicide is a popular choice for killing weeds and preventing more from growing. However, it contains a toxic chemical that can cause severe medical problems if someone ingests or inhales it.
The form of paraquat marketed in the United States has the specific characteristics below to prevent accidental poisoning:
- Made with a blue dye to differentiate from beverages
- Emits a strong odor
- Contains an agent to induce vomiting if ingested accidentally
Paraquat poisoning and exposure can occur under various circumstances, including:
- Inhaling particles from the substance in the air
- Accidental ingestion
- Direct contact with the skin
- Swallowing food or water contaminated by the chemical
- Paraquat spilling on the body and entering an open wound
Exposure can happen even if you take all necessary safety measures. You don’t have to work with paraquat to be at risk of poisoning. If you live near a farm or another location where licensed applicators use the herbicide, your drinking water could become contaminated.
Warning Signs of Paraquat Poisoning
Whether you touch, inhale, or ingest paraquat, you could suffer various symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening. Swelling is common immediately after direct physical contact.
If you believe you encountered paraquat, the warning signs you should watch for include:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea that might contain blood
- Abdominal pain
Swallowing paraquat can damage the gastrointestinal system. High levels of the dangerous chemical in the body can lead to low blood pressure, breathing problems, dehydration, and nosebleeds. You could suffer paraquat poisoning even if you only ingest a small amount.
Consuming large amounts of the herbicide can cause severe symptoms, such as:
- Weak muscles
- Increased heart rate
- Respiratory failure
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Coma
Poisoning can even lead to death.
Common medical issues reported after inhaling paraquat include:
- Acute kidney failure
- Lung scarring
- Respiratory failure
- Liver failure
- Pulmonary edema
You should seek immediate emergency care if you notice any warning signs of paraquat exposure or poisoning. The doctor should examine you and run urine or blood tests to check for the presence of the substance. Prompt treatment could remove the chemical from your body and prevent further damage to your internal organs.
Paraquat Exposure Linked to Parkinson’s Disease
Although researchers agree paraquat is toxic, they haven’t yet shown a direct link to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Multiple studies found individuals with Parkinson’s disease have been exposed to the herbicide, but the results don’t conclusively prove anything.
The National Institutes of Health performed a study showing farmers who apply paraquat are at a higher risk of developing the nervous system disorder. The Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council also studied the effects of paraquat exposure. They discovered a 600 percent increase in developing Parkinson’s from exposure to paraquat and a common pesticide.
Common Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms
Parkinson’s disease is a nervous system disorder that typically affects a person’s movement in the beginning stages. Symptoms can be minor at first but gradually become more apparent as the disease progresses.
The most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:
- Slow movement
- Hand tremors
- Rigid muscles
- Decreased ability to smile, blink, and perform other unconscious movements
- Changes in balance and posture
- Difficulty writing
- Slurred speech
Multiple complications could arise, resulting in problems, such as:
- Sleep disorders
- Constipation
- Change in mood and diagnosis of depression
- Trouble swallowing
- Bladder dysfunction
- Cognitive impairment
Call The Benton Law Firm today if you think the symptoms you’re experiencing are due to exposure to paraquat. We can help you obtain a proper diagnosis from a doctor and pursue legal action against the manufacturer.
Compensation for Parkinson’s Disease After Paraquat Exposure
You could file a lawsuit against the makers of paraquat and seek compensation to cover various losses, such as:
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket costs
Although losing a loved one is devastating, you could hold the paraquat manufacturer liable for the death. When you file a wrongful death claim, the compensation you receive could compensate you and your family for the losses you suffered, such as:
- Lost companionship or consortium
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support the deceased could have provided if they survived
- The value of lost household services the deceased would have been able to perform
- Medical bills and other expenses associated with the disease
Contact Us
The Benton Law Firm has a team of award-winning paraquat lawsuit lawyers ready to fight for you. We have been recognized by prestigious organizations, including the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Our reputation shows our level of commitment and dedication to each case we take.
If you were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or suffer from complications of paraquat exposure, contact The Benton Law Firm immediately. We will be happy to discuss what happened with you during a free consultation and determine how we can help. We will be by your side every step of the way to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. Call us today at (214) 777-7777.