Chemical exposure can leave you with lasting negative effects, leading to many questions about how to obtain compensation for the medical expenses and clean-up costs. Exposure to toxins can result in especially complex legal cases, as it is often unclear which exposure caused specific medical issues. Additionally, it may take years for the effects of the exposure to become apparent, and two individuals exposed to the same toxin at the same time may have completely different experiences.
An experienced Indianapolis toxic chemical exposure lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the laws surrounding these cases, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our local premises liability attorneys know what you need to do next.
Toxic chemical exposure can occur in various environments and settings, but certain situations are more likely to lead to toxic exposure.
Many industries use chemicals that can be harmful to workers. When accidents happen, safety measures can fail, resulting in spills, explosions, and leaks that expose workers to toxic substances, potentially leading to long-term health concerns.
Water and soil sources can become contaminated with dangerous toxins. Individuals exposed to toxins can be negatively impacted through a range of health issues, including cancers, neurological disorders, and breathing conditions.
While many consumer products used at home contain toxic chemicals at lower rates than those found in industrial settings, certain items such as cleaners, glues, and beauty products can contain unsafe levels of toxic chemicals.
Many known toxic chemicals are regulated by entities like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) for workplace compliance and IDEM (Indiana Department of Environmental Management), along with legislation like the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Clean Water Act. While the lists of these substances can be extensive, there are common chemicals that appear frequently in toxic chemical exposure lawsuits.
Asbestos has historically been used in products such as brakes, insulation, and construction materials found in older buildings. It is now known to cause severe health issues such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Factory workers, veterans (especially those who served on ships), shipyard workers, and individuals involved in old home renovations without proper precautions are among those most likely to face exposure.
Benzene is a substance commonly found in gasoline, industrial solvents, rubber, and paint. Exposure to benzene can lead to serious health issues like leukemia and bone marrow disease. People working in oil refineries and chemical plants are also at risk of workplace exposure.
Glyphosate is an active ingredient in many weed killers and has been linked to the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While homeowners who use these products heavily may face exposure levels, those most often affected are landscapers and agricultural workers who are exposed to high quantities over extended periods.
A toxic chemical exposure lawyer begins by evaluating the case and determining what investigations are necessary to build a strong case. These investigations will typically include subpoenaing documents from workplaces and manufacturers, collecting medical records, interviewing co-workers and experts, and establishing a clear timeline of exposure. Using the collected evidence, the lawyer will put forward an argument for compensation that takes into account medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and the impact of long-term disability.
At this stage, an Indianapolis toxic chemical exposure lawyer will negotiate on their client’s behalf to secure settlement offers, potentially from multiple responsible parties if the exposure originated from more than one source. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may take the trial to court and argue the case before a jury.
If you are facing the serious health consequences of a chemical exposure in Indianapolis, you do not have to fight alone. At McCready Law, our seasoned personal injury attorneys are dedicated to providing the support, resources, and experience that you need to address your concerns effectively. Do not hesitate to reach out. We encourage you to take the first steps towards regaining control of your health. Call us today to get started with a consultation.