Injuries that occur as a result of toxic substance exposure may be more common than one might think. Asbestos, one of the more well-known environmental toxic substances, may contribute to 10,000 deaths of Americans this year alone, according to the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. Meanwhile, a January 2014 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides that between the years 1999 and 2010, carbon monoxide was responsible for 5,149 deaths due to unintentional poisoning.
Because toxic substance exposure is so dangerous, it is important to understand possible risks and what to do if an injury or death results. Those harmed may file a toxic tort; an attorney at Gacovino & Lake can provide legal representation.
Environmental Toxicity
Although asbestos and carbon monoxide may be two of the most well-known toxic substances with which we may come in contact, there still are many others about which many are unaware. Our legal professionals represent clients who have come into contact with chemical oil spills, coal ash (also known as fly ash) and lead paint.
We also help clients who suffered injuries due to the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, and we can assist those who have been exposed to staph infections such as MRSA, as well as any toxic substances as a result of hydraulic fracturing (commonly referred to as “fracking”) in the area.
(Although we have experience dealing with injuries involving benzene, toxic mold and welding rod, we regret to inform potential clients that we no longer accept cases related to those toxic substances.)
Who is liable for injuries or illnesses due to toxic substance exposure?
Depending on the type of substance to which an individual is exposed, the resulting injuries or illnesses may vary significantly, although in many cases, they will require costly medical treatments. In order to recover compensation, an injured party must be able to identify the party liable for the substance.
Parties who could be liable for toxic substance-related injuries or illnesses include:
- companies that owned or transported the dangerous substance;
- construction companies responsible for using dangerous materials;
- landlords or property owners who failed to ensure that the premises were free of toxic substances such as lead paint; or
- a product manufacturer that may have failed to warn about the inclusion of a toxic substance.
Depending on the circumstances, there may be more than one party liable for an injury or illness, in which case, a toxic tort attorney can help an injured party name multiple defendants in a claim.
Call Gacovino & Lake Today for Help
If you suffer a personal injury, Section 214 of the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules affords you only three years to file a claim, after which you will be barred from filing an environmental toxic tort. The attorneys in New York at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. can help with your case. We can discuss specifics and help you file a claim to secure damages to help you recover. Call us today at 800-550-0000.
