What Are My Options if I Was Harmed by Exposure to Paraquat Herbicide?

 Posted on June 17, 2021 in Defective Products

Of the different types of dangerous products that can cause harm to people in the United States, herbicides are among the most toxic. Weedkillers are commonly used on farms throughout the U.S., and they often contain dangerous chemicals that can cause multiple health problems for those exposed to these substances. Paraquat, a chemical that is included in some widely-used herbicides, has been found to cause multiple health issues. Those who have suffered injuries after being exposed to these herbicides may be able to pursue compensation from a manufacturer by working with an experienced attorney.

Illnesses Caused by Paraquat Exposure

Herbicides that contain paraquat have been used since the 1960s. Even though this substance is highly toxic, the use of these herbicides has increased in recent years in response to weeds that have become resistant to other herbicides, such as Roundup. Paraquat is a “restricted use” chemical, and before using it, a person must receive training and obtain certification. Anyone who works with this chemical should use the proper protective equipment, including chemical-resistant gloves and aprons, safety goggles or face shields, and respiratory protection.

Exposure to paraquat can occur in multiple ways, including:

• Ingestion - Accidentally drinking paraquat can be fatal, even if a person only has one sip of the chemical. This may occur if the chemical is kept in an unlabeled container. Eating or drinking foods or beverages that are contaminated with paraquat can also cause severe or fatal illnesses.

• Inhalation - Breathing in herbicides containing paraquat can damage the lungs permanently, and it can cause the chemical to be absorbed into the body.

• Absorption through the skin or eyes - Exposure to herbicides may cause paraquat to enter a person’s system, and this is more likely to occur if a person has cuts, sores, or rashes. More serious injuries are likely if a person’s skin is exposed to concentrated herbicides, but paraquat may also be absorbed through the skin due to exposure to herbicides that have been diluted with water, including when chemicals are being sprayed on crops.

Exposure to paraquat can lead to multiple severe health issues, including heart failure, kidney failure, liver failure, and scarring in the lungs that affects a person’s ability to breathe and process oxygen. A person may also experience weakness in the muscles, fluid in the lungs, respiratory failure, or seizures. Long-term exposure to paraquat has also been linked to Parkinson’s disease and different forms of cancer.

Contact Our Palatine Herbicide Injury Attorneys

Multiple lawsuits have been filed against herbicide manufacturers based on injuries and illnesses caused by paraquat exposure. At Newland & Newland, LLP, we can help you determine whether you may be able to join an existing lawsuit or pursue a new claim that will allow you to recover compensation for injuries caused by paraquat. Our Illinois attorneys can meet with you in person and provide you with the legal help you need as you work to hold a product manufacturer responsible for your injuries. Contact our Arlington Heights product liability lawyers at 847-797-8000 to set up your free consultation today.

Sources:

https://emergency.cdc.gov/agent/paraquat/basics/facts.asp

https://www.farmprogress.com/herbicide/11-facts-know-about-paraquat-herbicide

https://files.michaeljfox.org/Paraquat_letter_FINAL.pdf