Toxic chemical exposure often occurs in the workplace, and can affect workers, as well as people who use the products that contain the toxic materials or live nearby to the manufacturing facility. We all expect that our employers have our best interests at heart, but unfortunately, many employers allow workers to be exposed to substances that can result in increased risk of devastating illnesses and conditions. Not only that, you may not have initially realized that you were exposed to those chemicals and substances, which means it has a higher likelihood of occurring more often over time.
When someone else’s negligence caused your exposure to harmful chemicals, a Fort Washington toxic torts lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your losses. At Friedman Schuman Layser, our exceptional personal injury attorneys manage toxic chemical exposure cases across Pennsylvania.
Damages Caused by Toxic Substance Exposure
Toxic substance exposure can have some immediate effects, including making it difficult to breathe or even causing chemical burns. The worst symptoms, however, often do not show up until years after the initial exposure. The specific illness or diagnosis each individual faces will depend on several factors, including the chemical they were exposed to. However, there are conditions that our lawyers see more frequently than others:
- Mesothelioma from asbestos exposure
- Organ damage
- Cancer
- Allergies and asthma
- Reproductive damage
- Birth defects
- Mental or emotional health concerns
- Developmental challenges in children
Working with a Fort Washington toxic torts lawyer can help you establish not only the damages you experienced, but the link between them and their toxic chemical exposure.
Liability for Toxic Substance Exposure
One of the most important things our toxic tort lawyers do for injured people in Fort Washington is identify who should be held liable for paying out damages. While compensation may not change the suffering you have faced, it can make it easier to cover the financial challenges that follow a devastating diagnosis. Common liable parties include:
- Manufacturers of products that contain toxic chemicals, or the manufacturers of toxic chemicals, who fail to take safety precautions or warn users about potential dangers.
- Property owners who do not address known hazards on the property, including asbestos, mold, and lead.
- Employers that do not provide adequate safety equipment and training for workers who need to work around toxic chemicals or substances.
- Employers who require employees to work in hazardous environments despite known dangers.
By working with a lawyer, you can identify all parties that hold some responsibility for the toxic exposure, which can significantly increase the compensation you can recover. Let us handle the legal specifics while you focus on family and recovery.
Damages in Toxic Exposure Claims
When you develop a serious health condition because of exposure to toxic chemicals or substances, you may have the right to file a claim for compensation. Each individual’s claim will look different based on their specific losses and their condition. However, claims commonly include compensation for the medical bills, the income you missed out on because of an illness, and any pain and suffering experienced.
When a family loses a loved one due to toxic exposure, a wrongful death claim may include compensation for funeral and burial expenses, the loss of a loved one’s income and the services they performed for the family, and the family’s suffering due to the loss of their presence.
Contact a Fort Washington Toxic Torts Attorney to Get Help Today
Toxic exposure can cause serious health issues that may impact many areas of your life, including your health and your finances. While a toxic exposure claim cannot restore your health, it can help you manage your financial needs while dealing with the symptoms of illness. Reach out to a Fort Washington toxic torts lawyer at Friedman Schuman Layser today to discuss your next steps. Schedule a consultations today.