Paraquat

Paraquat

Jackson Attorneys Helping Victims Injured by Dangerous Products

Paraquat is an herbicide used to kill weeds. Its use is restricted to commercial purposes only due to its high level of toxicity. Despite being banned in many other countries, paraquat is not only allowed, but its use in the United States has continued to rise. Recent studies have linked exposure to paraquat to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease following exposure to paraquat, you may be entitled to compensation. Jackson, Mississippi product liability lawyers at Coxwell & Associates are available to assist you in determining what your legal rights are and what steps should be taken next. The manufacturers of dangerous paraquat products should be the ones who bear the financial burden of your injuries. Our experienced and knowledgeable lawyers can help you throughout every stage of your claim, making sure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. If you have questions about your legal options following a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, or other side effect, after exposure to paraquat, contact our office today.

Link Between Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease

Paraquat dichloride (commonly referred to as paraquat) was first used in the 1960s as a highly toxic herbicide. It is still used commercially to prevent weed and grass growth near farms and crops. Paraquat is extremely toxic – ingesting a single sip could lead to death. In addition to the potential for lethal poisoning, numerous studies have concluded that prolonged exposure to the herbicide increases a person’s risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council has suggested that this increased risk is between 200 and 600 percent higher than for individuals without such exposure. Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that results in restrictions to a person’s movement. In addition to movement symptoms such as tremors and limb rigidity, it can also result in cognitive impairment as well as depression or sleep disorders. Aside from Parkinson’s disease, other long-term health effects that have been associated with paraquat poisoning include multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy as well.

Injury Claims Arising Out of Paraquat Poisoning

In 2017, the first lawsuit was filed against paraquat herbicide manufacturers, Syngenta Growmark and Chevron U.S.A., Inc., in relation to the causal link between their products and Parkinson’s disease. Since then, more and more claims are being pursued, as it continues to be used to treat farm areas and crops. Jackson Mississippi victims who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease due to paraquat exposure may have a claim against these companies, or others.

A product liability claim may be filed against those responsible for allowing a harmful product to be released on the market. To prevail in these cases, a plaintiff must show that a defect existed in the product at the time it left the manufacturer’s control. Of the three types of defects recognized under Mississippi law, a design defect and failure to warn are likely to be present in the herbicides containing paraquat. A design defect exists when a product has an inherent flaw rendering it unsafe to consumers. Failure to warn refers to a product failing to contain information about any risks or danger involved in its use. In paraquat cases, there is evidence that the product’s manufacturers knew of the herbicide’s link to a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease if exposed yet failed to make their products safer or disclose that danger.

These types of claims require the experience of a seasoned attorney who can engage in the appropriate in-depth investigation, file within the necessary deadlines, and make sure the proper evidence supporting your case is collected. Victims who have shown a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, or another injury, as a result of paraquat exposure may be compensated for medical costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, as well as pain and suffering.

Legal Representation for Injury Victims in Jackson and Surrounding Areas

At Coxwell Law & Associates, we are looking into cases involving a Parkinson’s diagnosis following prolonged contact to herbicides containing paraquat. Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder which gets worse over time. With no cure, those who suffer from the disease are faced with adjusting to a new way of life. Our attorneys are dedicated to making sure those who contributed to causing such harm are held legally accountable. If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, or another injury associated with paraquat exposure, please call Coxwell & Associates, PLLC at (601) 265-7766 and set up a free initial consultation to review your case.

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  • $144 Million Death and punitive damages
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