Paraquat Lawsuit
Paraquat Lawsuit
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Paraquat Dichloride, commonly referred to as “paraquat,” is a widely used herbicide in the United States.
Paraquat is a toxic chemical that is used primarily for weed and grass control. It is also used for the desiccation of crops prior to harvest.
Paraquat is a cheap and fast-acting product. The herbicide allows farmers to plant or sow crops almost immediately after its application.
However, because it is so toxic, paraquat is a health risk to the people who use it.
Types of Paraquat Exposure
Paraquat applicators need to be trained on its use, and should wear protective equipment like gloves, a mask, and safety glasses. Even with these safety precautions, users can still be exposed to paraquat herbicide through the following means:
- Ingestion (swallowing) – this is the most common type of accidental exposure. Ingesting paraquat causes liver, lung, heart, and kidney failure.
- Skin contact – this type of exposure is common after prolonged direct skin contact or through an open wound.
- Inhalation – when a person inhales paraquat, the exposure can lead to lung damage.
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Paraquat causes damage when it comes into direct contact with the lining of the mouth, stomach, or intestines. The herbicide causes oxidative stress, which several scientific studies have linked to Parkinson’s disease.
Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a disabling neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor system. Sufferers of Parkinson’s disease experience the following symptoms:
- Tremors or shaking in the arms and legs
- Impaired coordination and balance
- Slowed movements
- Muscle rigidity
- Speech changes
Paraquat exposure has been linked to Parkinson’s disease as early as 2009.
Paraquat Lawsuits
Since 2017, personal injury lawsuits have been filed against the herbicide’s manufacturers.
Over 30 countries around the world have banned or phased out the use of paraquat herbicide.
But in the United States, paraquat use has actually increased over the last 25 years.
How a Paraquat Lawyer Can Help
A paraquat lawyer specializes in the handling of the type of lawsuits being pursued against the makers of paraquat.
If you or a loved one have been injured due to paraquat exposure, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Contact VanDerGinst Law for a free consultation.
We have the experience to gather the required evidence and build a strong case. We have represented thousands of injury victims and have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on their behalf.
We’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.