Paraquat is a weed-killing herbicide that has been restricted to commercial use only due to its high toxicity level. Despite the well-known and medically documented health dangers of the commercial-grade chemical, the toxic herbicide continues to be manufactured, sold and utilized regularly throughout the United States.
Although farmers and agricultural laborers are mostly at risk for exposure to this dangerous chemical, those who live near industrial farms may also be at risk of paraquat exposure. The toxic chemical has been medically linked to a number of different side effects, especially Parkinson’s disease.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you may be eligible to file a paraquat lawsuit that can provide financial compensation. Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. is now accepting injury claims of farmers, agricultural workers, groundskeepers, and others exposed to paraquat who are suffering from Parkinson’s disease.
Paraquat has Risen in Popularity
Paraquat has risen in popularity, filling the gap for farmers and landscapers as other herbicides, like Roundup, have seen significant decline in use due to the potential health risks. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), paraquat is one of the most widely used herbicides on U.S. crops. Approximately 11 million pounds of this toxic herbicide is sprayed across a vast array of American crops each year, even against mounting evidence linking exposure of the chemical to a higher risk of Parkinson’s Disease.
More than 35 countries worldwide have banned the use of paraquat, including the entire European Union and China. However, there is no such ban in the U.S. In fact, the use of this dangerous chemical has actually increased in the United States in recent years, more than doubling since 2013.
Medical Studies Link Paraquat to Parkinson’s Disease
According to the EPA, “paraquat is highly toxic.” This dangerous chemical is similar to poison and even the smallest accidental ~~ingestion can result in severe illness and death. The EPA notes that “One small sip can be fatal and there is no antidote.”
Ingestion, however, is not the only way victims can be subject to paraquat poisoning. Other ways you can be subjected to paraquat poisoning include:
- Coming into close proximity with recently sprayed plants
- Accidentally getting paraquat on your skin or hair
- Mixing, loading or applying paraquat
According to the Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council, chronic exposure to paraquat can increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease by 200-600%.
Finding a Paraquat Lawsuit for Parkinson’s Disease
If you or a loved one has been exposed to paraquat and have subsequently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you may have the ability to file a legal claim. Monetary compensation may be available to help you and your loved ones cover the costs of medical treatments, lost wages and more.
Call Us Now!
The legal team at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. is investigating and accepting paraquat injury cases. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after being exposed to paraquat, you should immediately contact our attorneys for a free case consultation. For more information, please call us at 212.385.4410.
