Certified Paraquat Applicator Sues over Parkinson’s Disease
Much of the discussion surrounding paraquat involves how deadly it is to consume. Even the EPA writes that one sip is deadly. However, as researchers continue to dig into the herbicide’s safety, lawsuits against the manufacturers of paraquat say being exposed to the chemical causes Parkinson’s disease.
What is Paraquat
Paraquat is a herbicide designed to kill weeds and desiccate certain plants before harvest. It became available on the U.S. market in the 1960s, and its use continues to grow. Paraquat is sold under many different names, including Gramoxone, and made by several manufacturers, including Syngenta and Chevron. Paraquat is a highly toxic, restricted chemical that requires certification before it can be purchased, handled, or applied.
Paraquat Injury Lawsuit
Recently, an injury lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, Northern Division, in which the plaintiff alleges that even though he was professionally trained and certified to use the chemical, he was exposed to paraquat for decades by direct exposure, herbicide drift, and drinking water contamination.
The complaint states the plaintiff was exposed to paraquat when applying it by ground boom, mixing and filling the tanks, and by chemical drift when the chemical was used on farms that surrounded the plaintiff’s residence.
The plaintiff alleges that as a result of exposure to the toxic herbicide, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Even though the plaintiff was professionally trained and certified in the dangers of the chemical, he was not made aware of the risk of Parkinson’s.
The lawsuit alleges that the makers of paraquat knew or should have known that the chemical was highly toxic and could cause severe neurological impairment and injury but never warned the government or the public about the link between exposure and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Were You Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease After Being Exposed to Paraquat?
If you were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after being exposed to paraquat, you may be entitled to significant financial damages. All chemical manufacturers are obligated to warn of the dangers and risks with the use of their products. When they failed to warn, they may be liable for injuries caused by their product.
To find out if you are eligible to seek financial compensation for your paraquat-related Parkinson’s disease, contact us today.
