As a result of acute or long-term toxic exposure, individuals may experience a variety of health problems. Some toxins are found in common, everyday household products, and others are found in the workplace. Those who suffer injury as a result of exposure to dangerous toxins may be able to file an environmental claim in New York, with which New York personal injury lawyers on Long Island can help.
Illnesses Connected to Toxic Exposure to Harmful Substances
Among the more common toxic substances with which individuals may come into contact is asbestos, a fibrous mineral that is used infrequently today. However, it still may exist in older homes and buildings, and some manufacturers may continue to use it. It may be found in drywall, insulation and even in toys and can cause a cancer called mesothelioma. Complications of mesothelioma include breathing and swallowing difficulties, chronic pain, and neck and facial swelling.
Another type of toxin is Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used in plastic. It can be found in baby and water bottles, food packaging, and other food/beverage containers (plastic and metal). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expressed concerns for fetuses, babies and young children who may be exposed to BPA, specifically in regard to possible effects on the prostate and brain. The FDA has even banned use of BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups.
Benzene is another type of environmental toxin emitted via tobacco smoke, crude oil and gasoline. Waste sites, industries that manufacture this chemical and those who work with certain products such as paints and glues, could be exposed to high levels. Although it can cause symptoms with short-term exposure (such as convulsions, vomiting and irregular heartbeat), exposure over a long period of time can increase the risk of leukemia and blood disorders.
Liability for Injuries Caused by Toxic Environmental Exposure
In order to file an environmental claim against an individual or an entity, evidence of negligence must be present, such as knowingly exposing the victim to unsafe levels of a chemical or other substance or using banned substances in products.
Liability largely depends on the circumstances surrounding the exposure. For instance, someone who was harmed when exposed at work could file a workers’ compensation claim or a third party claim if a party other than the employer is responsible for the exposure. When exposure involves a product, the manufacturer could be liable, resulting in filing a product liability claim. Or if an individual becomes ill when exposed to toxins on someone else’s property, the owner could be held responsible.
A New York personal injury lawyer can review details of toxic exposure for Long Island clients to determine if they have valid environmental claims and to determine liability. In some situations, it might be possible to file an environmental claim against more than one party.
Consulting New York Personal Injury Lawyers in Long Island about Damages for Toxic Exposure Injuries
The type of toxin, duration of exposure and other factors will affect the severity of the injuries and ultimately the damages that may be recovered. Examples of damages include medical bills and lost wages. If exposure causes someone to lose his or her life, the family could be entitled to wrongful death damages.
Other types of damages that could be addressed in an environmental claim related to toxic exposure include pain and suffering, disability, mental anguish, reduced quality of life and more. To learn about the legal options that may be available, victims can review the details of the case with a New York personal injury lawyer in Long Island.
At Gacovino, Lake & Associates in New York, our personal injury lawyers can assist injured clients in Long Island who wish to pursue an environmental claim following toxic exposure to a harmful substance.
