Paraquat Lawsuit & Parkinson’s Disease

For decades, agricultural workers throughout the United States have used the weed-killing Paraquat as one of the most widely used industrial herbicides. However, farmworkers with chronic Paraquat exposure have an elevated risk of Parkinson’s disease. Those who developed neurological disorders after pesticide exposure should contact our experienced attorneys and file a Paraquat Parkinson’s lawsuit to receive justice for their injuries.

As a result, many research studies have begun to document the connection between using Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease. Furthermore, the correlation has led to federal Paraquat Parkinson’s disease lawsuits brought on behalf of plaintiffs who have developed Parkinson’s disease.

Did your loved one have chronic exposure to this toxic herbicide and now present progressive nervous system disorder or poisoning symptoms? If so, you might be able to recover maximum compensation via a multi-district litigation lawsuit against the manufacturers of Paraquat.

The personal injury attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, LLC law firm, can help recover financial compensation for your damages due to Paraquat exposure. Contact us at (888) 424-5757 for a free consultation with a product liability lawyer today to discuss a potential Paraquat lawsuit.

Paraquat: A Long History of Exposure and Ownership

Over half a century, people have been exposed to Paraquat, the active ingredient in the herbicide Gramoxone.

Paraquat dichloride kills plants and remains in use despite its known toxicity due to its effectiveness as a weed killer, raising concerns about the health risks associated with its widespread application.

Since its approval in 1961, Paraquat has changed hands through various manufacturers, each responsible for the product during its ownership period.

Initially sold by Zeneca, the herbicide was transferred to Syngenta following the merger between AstraZeneca and Novartis in 2000, requiring the companies to divest their agricultural division.

In 2015, ChemChina acquired Syngenta for $43 billion, effectively assuming all liabilities for the herbicide, including legal responsibility for Paraquat exposure.

As a result, ChemChina became the latest in a long line of companies to be held accountable for any potential health risks associated with Paraquat.

Despite the ongoing concerns and lawsuits related to Paraquat exposure, the global herbicide market has expanded. In 2011, the market was estimated to be worth over $600 million, highlighting the enduring demand for this toxic weed killer.

This growth underscores the need for greater awareness of the potential health risks associated with Paraquat use and stricter regulations to protect those who come into contact with the chemical.

That said, a global paraquat settlement will likely not be reached in 2023 until after the initial Paraquat MDL bellwether trial.

At that point, the Paraquat Class Action MDL will resolve the accusation toward Chevron USA and Syngenta Crop Protection, finding for or against the plaintiff.

Paraquat: Strict Regulations and Safety Concerns

The extreme toxicity of Paraquat and its potential link to Parkinson’s disease has led to strict regulations governing its use. These involve the use of protective equipment, safe storage, avoiding usage around residential areas, and application only by a certified applicator.

However, these regulations may not be enough to fully protect agricultural workers, farmers, and others from the harmful effects of this dangerous herbicide.

Licensed Applicators and EPA Regulations

Due to the well-documented risks associated with Paraquat exposure, its use is restricted to licensed applicators who have undergone specific training in handling and applying the chemical following the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.

This restricted access is intended to minimize the potential for accidental exposure or misuse.

Continued Concerns and the Need for Further Action

Given the potential dangers of Paraquat and the growing body of evidence linking it to Parkinson’s disease, there is a pressing need for additional research and action to ensure the safety of those who come into contact with the herbicide.

While the current restrictions on Paraquat use are essential, further measures may be necessary to protect farm workers and the broader population from its harmful effects.

The Mechanism and Dangers of Paraquat Dichloride

Paraquat dichloride is an effective and potent herbicide that disrupts essential processes in plants, leading to their death.

However, this mechanism that makes it a powerful weedkiller also poses significant risks to human health, including the potential development of Parkinson’s disease.

While Paraquat is highly effective at killing weeds, its toxic properties pose significant risks to humans.

Research has suggested that Paraquat exposure can damage human cells, particularly those in the brain.

This damage is believed to result in a deficit of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a crucial role in regulating movement and coordination.

The loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain can cause victims to develop Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor challenges, tremors, stiffness, and balance issues.

Several studies have found a strong association between Paraquat exposure and an elevated risk of Parkinson’s disease, highlighting the potential dangers of the herbicide to human health.

Heightened Awareness and the Need for Action

The link between Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease has gained attention recently, with numerous lawsuits and bellwether trials citing the scientific evidence supporting this connection.

The Mechanism and Dangers of Paraquat Dichloride

Paraquat dichloride is an effective and potent herbicide that disrupts essential processes in plants, leading to their death.

However, this mechanism that makes it a powerful weedkiller also poses significant risks to human health, including the potential development of Parkinson’s disease.

While Paraquat is highly effective at killing weeds, its toxic properties pose significant risks to humans.

Research has suggested that Paraquat exposure can damage human cells, particularly those in the brain.

This damage is believed to result in a deficit of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a crucial role in regulating movement and coordination.

The loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain can cause victims to develop Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor challenges, tremors, stiffness, and balance issues.

Several studies have found a strong association between Paraquat exposure and an elevated risk of Parkinson’s disease, highlighting the potential dangers of the herbicide to human health.

Heightened Awareness and the Need for Action

The link between Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease has gained attention recently, with numerous lawsuits and bellwether trials citing the scientific evidence supporting this connection.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Refuses to Have Paraquat Banned in the United States

The agency does continue to categorize Paraquat as a restricted-use herbicide and can only be used by a licensed pesticide applicator.

This EPA regulatory filing granted re-approval for commercially licensed users despite all the health consequences.

The toxic non-selective herbicide for unwanted weeds and grass growth is banned in 32 countries.

Regardless, the EPA has stood alone against the rest of the world when a chemical or pesticide increases the risk to farmers and agri-workers.

Even China, a country with a questionable environmental record and the home of Paraquat’s owner, has issued a Paraquat ban.

Paraquat Usage Continues in the US Despite Concerns

Although many countries have banned Paraquat due to health and environmental concerns, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not implemented a ban.

As a result, the herbicide continues to be widely used across the country, particularly in the Eastern United States.

Where Paraquat Is Banned

Some countries that have banned or restricted Paraquat include:

• Canada: Citing concerns over the risks to human health and the environment, Canada banned using Paraquat in 2009.
• Finland has also banned Paraquat to protect public health and the environment.
• Norway prohibited the use of Paraquat due to the potential for long-term health effects and environmental contamination.
• Sweden decided to ban Paraquat because of concerns about its toxicity and the potential health consequences for those exposed to the herbicide.
• Australia: In 2017, Australia banned the use of Paraquat due to its association with Parkinson’s disease and other health risks.

In addition to individual countries, the European Union (EU) has prohibited Paraquat use.

The European Commission decided not to renew the approval of Paraquat in 2007, effectively banning its use and sale within EU member states.

The Rising Tide of Paraquat-Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuits

The growing body of evidence linking Paraquat to Parkinson’s disease has increased lawsuits filed against companies responsible for the herbicide’s production and distribution.

With more plaintiffs joining the legal fight, the pressure is mounting on companies like Syngenta and Growmark to address the severe health consequences of Paraquat chemical exposure.

Emerging Research on Paraquat-Parkinson’s Disease Connection

As more studies reveal a correlation between Paraquat use and the development of Parkinson’s disease, the number of individuals seeking legal recourse is rising.

These lawsuits target significant companies involved in the production and sale of Paraquat, holding them accountable for the devastating health consequences experienced by those exposed to the chemical.

The Legal Battle Against Paraquat Manufacturers: Filing a Paraquat Parkinsons Lawsuit

The recent Paraquat lawsuit trial initiated by an Illinois crop duster highlights the ongoing battle against the herbicide’s manufacturers, holding them accountable for the severe health problems allegedly caused by toxic exposure.

The lawsuit, filed in January 2021, accuses several defendants—including Syngenta AG, Syngenta Crop Protection, Chevron, Phillips Chemical, and Growmark—of being responsible for the plaintiff’s exposure to Paraquat, which allegedly led to the development of kidney disease and Parkinson’s.

The plaintiff claims that between 1969 and 1981, he worked in fields where Paraquat was extensively used as a weedkiller.

During this period, he experienced repeated exposure to the chemical, ingesting and inhaling it as it was sprayed on the crops.

Diagnosis and Health Consequences

In 2019, the plaintiff was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and kidney failure, which he attributes to his long-term usage of Paraquat.

In this case, one of the significant concerns is the potential for chemical drift, which occurs when the herbicide travels beyond the intended application area.

This drift can lead to increased risks of developing crippling Parkinson’s disease for those in neighboring fields who may not have been directly involved in the herbicide’s application.

The first Paraquat lawsuit trial mentioned is one example of the growing number of legal cases seeking to hold Paraquat manufacturers accountable for the severe health consequences of the herbicide’s use.

As more individuals come forward with claims of illness related to Paraquat chemical exposure, the pressure on these manufacturers to take responsibility for their products continues to mount.

Paraquat Class Action Lawsuits: The Fight for Justice Against Parkinson’s Disease

Paraquat Class Action Lawsuit: A United Front

While individual paraquat poisoning claims continue to be filed, paraquat class action litigation has also emerged.

A Paraquat class action MDL consolidates the cases of multiple plaintiffs who have had Parkinson’s disease due to exposure to the herbicide.

By joining forces in a Paraquat class action, affected individuals can strengthen their cases, share legal expenses, and streamline the litigation process.

The Importance of Paraquat Lawyers

Given the intricate nature of the paraquat dichloride litigation, affected individuals must consult with experienced Paraquat lawyers who can navigate the legal complexities and advocate for their rights.

Suitable legal representation can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome in Paraquat lawsuits, whether a Paraquat class action or an individual claim.

Paraquat Lawsuit Numbers Are Growing Throughout the United States

One of the first Paraquat lawsuit cases was filed in St. Clair County, Illinois.

The Paraquat claims that the manufacturers (Syngenta and Growmark) failed to warn them of the dangers of Paraquat dichloride as specified by the toxic pesticides act.

Since then, similar civil suits have been filed in various jurisdictions alleging Paraquat caused Parkinson’s disease.

Due to the similar fact patterns involving the same defendants and similar injuries, the Paraquat lawsuits have been consolidated into a Multi-District Litigation program in Federal Court (Paraquat MDL).

Consolidating Multiple Cases into a Single Jurisdiction

On June 7, 2021, the United States Judicial Panel on Multi-District Litigation ordered all civil suits filed in Federal Court to be consolidated into the Southern District of Southern Illinois (PARAQUAT PRODUCT LIABILITY LITIGATION Case No. 3:21-MD-3004-NJR)

All Paraquat lawsuits filed have been consolidated in one jurisdiction under Paraquat MDL Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel. She will oversee existing and future Paraquat litigation lawsuits as they will be centralized for discovery purposes, but cases will be tried individually.

MDL Judge Nancy Rosenstengel has selected six Paraquat Parkinson’s lawsuits for the forthcoming bellwether trials. The six Paraquat lawsuits were chosen from over 700 lawsuits filed into the MDL. Paraquat plaintiffs and defense lawyers each picked cases favorable to their respective sides.

In turn, the Paraquat MDL judge selected cases that would give both sides the best gauge of the science and alleged health consequences.

While these cases remain in the early phases of litigation, our Paraquat lawyers will monitor the cases’ progress and update this web page as Judge Rosenstengel makes substantive rulings.

Paraquat Lawsuit Updates and Bellwether Trials

As Paraquat suits grow, we will report on settlements and jury verdicts.

Paraquat is a highly toxic weed-killing herbicide for commercial use only. Since farmers come in close contact with this herbicide, they’re the most vulnerable.

However, people living near industrial farms also suffer from exposure to toxic herbicides.

The rate at which this Paraquat MDL has grown led Judge Rosenstengel to allow for master pleading forms. It enables many representative Paraquat plaintiffs to file Parkinson’s disease lawsuits directly into the Paraquat MDL.

Judge Rosenstengel has also pushed back the trial date of the first Paraquat lawsuit bellwether trial, initially slated for mid-November of 2022, to July 2023. Since then, many new Paraquat lawsuits have been filed in federal and state courts.

Some of these cases could soon be added to the Paraquat class action lawsuit.

Paraquat Exposure

The US agricultural sector has used Paraquat for nearly 50 years. Gramoxone is a famous brand name for Paraquat, marketed by Syngenta. Despite its apparent dangers, the herbicide is still used in the country.

Research has shown that occupational Paraquat exposure results in Parkinson’s disease. The Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council presented multiple studies and urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to prohibit Paraquat use in the country in 2017.

They claimed that people who experienced herbicide Paraquat chemical exposure in their young lives have a 200% to 600% higher risk of developing crippling Parkinson’s disease.

How Can You Be Exposed to Paraquat?

You can encounter Paraquat hazards in one of the following ways:

Inhalation: Paraquat exposure is dangerous, and inhaling hazardous herbicides can damage the lungs. Inhalation occurs when you breathe in the aerosolized chemical or smoke a plant tainted with Paraquat.

Inhaling particles during application carries the highest risk of health complications since there is no filter on the inhalation system.

Traces of Paraquat have been found in marijuana in the US, posing additional risks for those who use the substance.

Eating or Drinking: The toxic herbicide easily mixes into drinks and foods, making consumption through ingestion or drinking deadly.

Strong odor, dye, and vomiting agents are added to Paraquat in the US to minimize the risk of exposure through accidental ingestion.

However, despite these safety measures, there remains the possibility of unintentional consumption, leading to serious health consequences.

Skin Contact: If Paraquat comes into direct contact with the skin, it can cause harm, especially if the Paraquat chemical exposure has been ongoing for a long time.

Environmental Contamination: In addition to direct exposure, individuals can also be exposed to Paraquat through environmental contamination.

This can occur when the herbicide is sprayed on crops or plants and then spreads through the soil or water sources.

Those living near agricultural areas where Paraquat is used may risk exposure to contaminated air, water, or soil.

People must take special precautions like wearing protective gloves, respirators, and protective clothing when handling products containing this herbicide, especially for those most vulnerable such as pregnant women and young children.

Effects of Paraquat Exposure

When exposed to toxic Paraquat, an individual experiences a range of immediate and long-term side effects that can have severe implications on their health.

Immediate Side Effects of Paraquat Exposure

Upon exposure to these toxic chemicals, individuals may experience the following immediate side effects:

• Stomach pain
• Pain in the mouth and throat
• Swelling in the mouth and throat
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure
• Vomiting and nausea

These immediate side effects can be distressing and require prompt medical attention.

Short-Term Side Effects of Paraquat Exposure

Licensed applicators, farmers, and neighbors exposed to Paraquat for short periods may develop side effects that can present themselves in a few hours or days after ingestion or inhalation, such as:

• Fluid in lungs (pulmonary edema)
• Liver failure
• Seizures
• Heart failure
• Kidney damage
• General weakness
• Coma
• Confusion and emotional distress
• Accelerated heart rate
• Lung scarring (pulmonary fibrosis)

Short-term side effects can lead to serious health complications and require immediate medical intervention.

Long-Term Health Concerns of Paraquat Exposure

Individuals facing exposure to Paraquat chemicals for months or years are prone to the following health concerns:

• Weak immune system: Long-term exposure can compromise the immune system, making the individual more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
• Kidney damage: Prolonged exposure can lead to kidney damage, affecting the body’s ability to filter waste and toxins effectively.
• Liver failure: Liver damage can occur with long-term exposure, leading to life-threatening complications.
• Impaired movement: Paraquat may cause muscle weakness and impaired movement, leading to difficulties performing daily activities.
• Heart failure: Paraquat victims may experience heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently.
• Damaged brain cells: Paraquat has been linked to the damage of brain cells, particularly those related to Parkinson’s disease.
• Difficulty swallowing: Long-term exposure may cause difficulty swallowing due to muscle weakness and nerve damage.
• Lung scarring: Ongoing exposure to this toxic herbicide can cause lung scarring or pulmonary fibrosis, making breathing difficult.
• Difficulty breathing: Individuals with long-term exposure may experience difficulty breathing due to damage to the respiratory system.
• Risk of congenital disabilities: Pregnant women exposed to Paraquat may have an increased risk of giving birth to children with congenital disabilities.
• Inflammation of the skin: Paraquat can cause skin irritation and inflammation, particularly with direct contact over long periods.

Long-term health concerns resulting from toxic exposure can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and may require ongoing medical care and support.

Developing Parkinson’s from Paraquat Use

Most importantly, Paraquat allegedly results in Parkinson’s disease, a severe progressing neurodegenerative disorder affecting bodily movement.

Motor symptoms start appearing gradually, such as a tremor in the hands.

Here are some motor and non-motor symptoms Parkinson’s disease patients experience:

• Change in speech patterns and general speech
• Hunching forward
• Impaired balance and posture
• Stiff joints and muscles
• Frequent shaking and tremors in hands (dopaminergic neurons degeneration)
• Notably slow mobility

A 2018 study found that farmworkers using hazardous Paraquat were 2.5 times more likely to suffer serious health problems and develop Parkinson’s.

By 2019, the Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council informed the EPA of the link between Paraquat dichloride and people subsequently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Paraquat Can Kill Instantly

One study linked Parkinson’s disease in three of 544 Paraquat cases due to inhaling Paraquat. All three sufferers had a history of contact with the herbicide before their diagnosis.

Unlike other herbicides, this weed and grass killer can kill a subject instantly when swallowed or cause Parkinson’s disease through chronic exposure.

Risk of Being Exposed to Paraquat

This report revealed scientific studies that “Paraquat increases the likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease.”

In addition, the study found a correlation between the toxic substance and the elevated risk of Paraquat poisoning and oxidative stress.

In other research by the same team, farmworkers had an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s if exposed to Paraquat herbicides for five or more years.

A study conducted in New York as part of the Agricultural Health Study (AHS) concluded that although there was an association between using the chemical and contracting Parkinson’s disease, other factors might contribute to this link.

However, that evidence was insufficient to implicate the dangerous chemical as the cause of Parkinson’s disease in humans.

Seeking Compensation for Paraquat Exposure: Holding Manufacturers Liable

If you or a close relative have been exposed to the highly toxic substance Paraquat and suffered adverse health consequences, you may be eligible to file a Paraquat lawsuit against the responsible companies to seek compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and other damages.

This process is known as a Paraquat settlement.

Syngenta, a company that manufactures hazardous chemicals, is one such entity being held liable in numerous Paraquat Parkinson’s disease lawsuit claims.

The Paraquat lawyers argue that the company should be held accountable for several reasons:

• Syngenta should have known – due to extensive testing before product release – or known about the toxic effects of Paraquat and its link with Parkinson’s disease.
• The company failed to warn chemical users about the herbicide’s potential health consequences.
• Syngenta negligently marketed and designed the product.
• The company failed to protect users by not taking responsible steps to minimize exposure risks.

The estimated Paraquat settlement values can be inferred by examining settlement payouts in prior consolidated mass torts, similar to the Paraquat case litigation.

A recent example to draw from is the Roundup Paraquat lawsuit, which resulted in a large settlement.

In the Roundup litigation, Paraquat defendants Bayer agreed to pay around $10 billion to settle approximately 100,000 cases and set aside another $6 billion for future Paraquat lawsuit settlement claims.

While the settlement amounts in Paraquat lawsuits may vary, this example illustrates the potential compensation scale for those exposed to the toxic herbicide.

The Importance of Filing a Paraquat Lawsuit

If you or a close relative have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s due to dangerous chemical exposure, you may wonder why you should consider filing a lawsuit.

There are several reasons to pursue a Paraquat claim, such as receiving compensation for your suffering and holding the manufacturers accountable for their negligence.

Seeking Compensation for Medical Bills and Lost Wages

Individuals who have developed Parkinson’s disease due to prolonged occupational exposure to Paraquat often face significant financial burdens.

Medical bills for ongoing treatment can be overwhelming, and patients may lose wages due to taking time off from work or being unable to work altogether.

By filing a Paraquat Parkinson’s lawsuit, plaintiffs can receive financial compensation for the following:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of good quality of life
• Medical costs
• Lost wages

An experienced lawyer can help you receive maximum compensation through Paraquat settlements, multidistrict litigation (MDL), or a Paraquat class action lawsuit.

The Paraquat litigation process, including new Paraquat lawsuits and existing Paraquat-Parkinson disease lawsuits, can identify the value of individual claims and potentially shorten the legal process.

Recent Developments in Paraquat Litigation: First Bellwether Test Trial Set

In the Paraquat MDL, six Paraquat civil lawsuits were selected for bellwether test trials.

Each Paraquat bellwether trial will help shape the litigation strategy and potential settlement amounts for future cases.

In a recent Paraquat lawsuit, an Illinois crop duster filed a claim against multiple defendants involved in the manufacture and sale of the chemical. The Paraquat lawsuit alleges he developed Parkinson’s disease and kidney failure from exposure to toxic chemicals.

As new Paraquat lawsuits continue to emerge, it is crucial for those affected by toxic exposure to seek legal representation and join the fight for justice.

By doing so, you can contribute to holding manufacturers accountable and potentially receive compensation to ease the financial burden of living with Parkinson’s disease.

Navigating Paraquat Lawsuits: The Importance of Legal Representation

Filing a Paraquat lawsuit can be a complex and challenging process.

To increase your chances of success and ensure adequate compensation for your damages, having knowledgeable and experienced Paraquat lawyers is crucial during litigation.

A dedicated Paraquat attorney can help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights. In many Paraquat cases, defendants may work aggressively to minimize compensation for damages caused by the toxic substance.

An experienced Paraquat lawsuit attorney can advocate for your best interests, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your suffering.

Who is Eligible to File a Paraquat Lawsuit?

Various individuals may be eligible to file Paraquat lawsuits, including those exposed to the herbicide and subsequently diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Potential claimants include:

• Individuals who have worked with or around commercial pesticides
• Residents living in areas near farmlands where Paraquat is used on crops
• Farmworkers, growers, landscapers, and pickers
• Individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s while working or visiting farmland sprayed with the herbicide
• Surviving families who lost a loved one the Paraquat exposure

It is crucial to file a Paraquat lawsuit as soon as possible to ensure your claim is within the applicable statute of limitations.

Delays in filing your lawsuit can result in losing your right to seek compensation for your damages.

By engaging skilled Paraquat lawyers, you can ensure that your case is filed promptly and your legal rights are protected.

Paraquat Settlement Amounts: A Glimpse into Recent Resolved Cases

As the number of Paraquat lawsuits increases, several cases have been resolved or are in progress, shedding light on the potential outcomes for plaintiffs in Paraquat litigation.

Below is a bullet list of recently resolved and ongoing cases involving chemical exposure and its link to Parkinson’s disease:

• Case 1: While specific Paraquat settlement amounts are often confidential, the Roundup case is a recent example of a large-scale settlement involving similar herbicide litigation. Bayer, the manufacturer of Roundup, agreed to pay over $10 billion to settle approximately 100,000 cases, setting aside another $6 billion for future claims. The resolutions of Roundup lawsuits can be a reference point for potential outcomes in the Paraquat litigation.
• Case 2: In the ongoing Paraquat MDL, six bellwether trials have been selected to help determine the value of individual claims and set the stage for potential future Paraquat lawsuit settlements. The outcomes of each bellwether test trial will provide valuable insight into the direction of Paraquat litigation and potential settlement amounts.
• Case 3: A recent Paraquat lawsuit in Illinois involved a crop duster who claimed he was sickened with kidney disease and Parkinson’s after exposure to the herbicide.
• Case 4: A new wave of Paraquat lawsuits is emerging, with plaintiffs alleging that manufacturers knew or should have known about chemical exposure risks yet failed to warn users or take adequate precautions.

While it is difficult to predict the exact outcome or Paraquat settlement amounts for individual Paraquat lawsuits, these recent cases illustrate the potential for plaintiffs to secure significant compensation for their damages.

As the Paraquat litigation landscape evolves, more information will become available about the possible settlement amounts for those affected by toxic exposure and its link to Parkinson’s disease.

Paraquat Lawsuit FAQs

Our personal injury lawyers understand that many victims who have experienced Paraquat poisoning and had toxic chemical reactions have unanswered questions about who to hold financially accountable.

Some family members have lost a loved one exposed to toxic Paraquat and have lost their weekly earnings necessary to pay bills and funeral expenses.

Our Paraquat lawyers have answered the most commonly asked questions below. Contact us at (888) 424-5757 for additional information on filing a Paraquat Parkinson’s lawsuit or to schedule a free consultation to discuss compensation.

What are the Risks of Exposure to Paraquat Weed Killer?

Long-term exposure to this weed killer has been associated with an elevated risk of developing the disease and various neurological symptoms.

Victims could be exposed to toxic Paraquat by ingesting or breathing it in or through contact with skin that has had direct contact with the product.

Even short-term exposure can lead to more severe symptoms if contact is sustained over extended periods.

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Seizures

Given the potential health consequences posed by Paraquat, people should exercise caution when using or coming into contact with it. Government safety guidelines need to be considered when handling any form of toxic substances like Paraquat.

Is There a Link Between Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease Through Exposure?

Recent research has established a link between Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease.

This connection has been observed in both short and long-term studies, suggesting that even brief exposure can harm health. Studies have found that those exposed to toxic Paraquat are twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s disease over time than those without contact with the chemical.

The mechanism by which Paraquat causes harm is still being studied. Still, it is thought that the compound impairs dopamine pathways in the brain leading to neurodegenerative changes similar to those observed in Parkinson’s patients.

Has The US Justice System Consolidated the Hundreds of Paraquat Lawsuits Into a Single Paraquat Class Action Lawsuit MDL (Multidistrict Litigation)?

The magnitude of Paraquat lawsuits is so large that the government has consolidated the hundreds of cases into a single Paraquat class action lawsuit.

This consolidated Paraquat lawsuit provides a unified venue for plaintiffs with similar claims against a single defendant. It allows discovery, discovery management, and general case management to occur in one court simultaneously, making the process more economical for all involved.

Additionally, it allows claimants to resolve their claims simultaneously instead of pursuing each case separately. While this MDL consolidation helps streamline proceedings, it also carries certain risks.

Has the US Justice System Started the First Bellwether Trials to Resolve the Hundreds of Paraquat Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuits in Multidistrict Litigation?

The first trial in the Paraquat MDL cases started on January 11, 2021. The first trial was heard in federal court in St. Louis, Missouri, involving three of four Paraquat lawsuit plaintiffs selected for this initial round of bellwether proceedings.

In an MDL, diverse claims against a single defendant are consolidated to manage discovery, manage pretrial proceedings, and provide efficient case management.

The bellwether trials can gauge how juries respond to specific types of evidence presented in the cases associated with Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease. The mass tort litigation outcomes may influence how other Paraquat Parkinson’s disease plaintiffs decide to proceed with their claims.

A bellwether trial also allows parties involved in an MDL to assess the potential risks of pursuing further litigation. As each trial progresses, crucial evidence can be evaluated. Both sides can better understand how much monetary damages may be at stake before the settlement or trial of their Paraquat cases.

How Can Paraquat Lawyers Maximize a Personal Injury Claim or Wrongful Death Lawsuit When Someone Is Injured or Killed by a Deadly Chemical?

Were you diagnosed with developing Parkinson’s disease from exposure to Paraquat? Our lawyers specialize in maximizing Paraquat lawsuit settlements for those injured or killed after exposure to the deadly chemical.

Experienced Paraquat lawyers are familiar with the legal resolution process, from filing suits and gathering evidence to negotiating for a fair settlement.

They have an in-depth knowledge of the law, including statutes and regulations surrounding exposure and damages that may be collected.

Competent lawyers develop strategies to maximize recovery in a Paraquat case and understand that each circumstance is unique.

They will consider factors such as emotional distress, future medical care needs, or lost wages resulting from an injury or death caused by Paraquat poisoning. Attorneys also ensure that all avenues of compensation are explored, such as governmental agencies or insurance companies that may be liable for some degree of damages.

Are There Any Long-Term Health Problems Associated With Exposure to Paraquat?

Long-term health issues associated with exposure to Paraquat can range from mild symptoms such as headaches and stomach pains to more serious ailments, including tremors, memory loss, paralysis, and death.

One of the most concerning long-term effects of long-term exposure is Parkinson’s disease.

Researchers have found that individuals exposed to the chemical are likelier to develop the condition than those not.

Other long-term impacts linked to Paraquat-related poisoning include:

• Respiratory and circulatory diseases
• Impaired brain function and kidney damage

Those exposed to this deadly chemical must seek medical treatment immediately if they experience strange or unusual symptoms.

How Much Is a Paraquat Lawsuit Worth if the Victim Suffered Severe Injuries or Died?

The value of a Paraquat lawsuit is determined by the number of damages a plaintiff has suffered. In cases involving severe injuries or death, a victim or the victim’s family may be entitled to compensation for damages, including:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Future lost earnings
• Temporary/permanent disability benefits
• Workers’ compensation benefits
• Pain and suffering
• Funeral expenses

Additionally, if an individual was wrongfully killed due to toxic chemical exposure, in that case, the family may also seek punitive damages from the responsible party to seek justice for their loved one.

The Paraquat lawsuit settlement amounts can vary depending on each case’s circumstances.

In cases where a fatal injury occurred due to toxic exposure, families may be eligible for punitive damages in addition to those mentioned above.

Punitive damages are monetary awards intended to serve as punishment against those responsible for causing harm through their careless or intentional actions.

This type of Paraquat exposure lawsuit award is available only in extreme cases where it is found that a defendant acted willfully and recklessly by disregarding standards imposed by law or agency regulations governing hazardous materials such as pesticides containing Paraquat.

Hiring a Paraquat Lawsuit Lawyer to Resolve a Paraquat-Caused Parkinson’s Disease Case

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our Paraquat attorneys have a proven track record of representing injured victims harmed by the popular herbicide.

Our personal injury lawyers will review your Paraquat lawsuit case and advise you of your legal options.

Contact our defective product lawyers at (888) 424-5757 or use the contact form to schedule a free consultation.

All confidential or sensitive information you share with your Paraquat lawyer remains private through an attorney-client relationship.

Our law firm accepts all personal injury cases and wrongful death lawsuits on a contingency fee basis.

This agreement ensures you do not pay the legal fee until your Paraquat lawyer successfully resolves your legal issue through a negotiated settlement or jury award.

Contact our legal team today to file a Parkinson’s disease-Paraquat exposure lawsuit.

Resources:

• About Paraquat | CDC
• Paraquat Side Effects | Medline Plus