Toxic Torts

The Newsome Law Firm represents government entities and individuals for claims involving toxic and environmental torts; specifically water contamination. Our firm has the knowledge and experience in handling cases for clients suffering from injuries or illnesses caused by toxic elements. We offer our clients advice and information on prevention, liabilities, litigation avoidance, what to look for in product warnings, and rules and policies per agencies and administrations. Above all, we offer peace of mind and the dedication to obtain just compensation for you and your loved ones.

What is a Toxic Tort?

When a company that produces, distributes or supplies toxic chemicals and/or substances is responsible an accident or toxic exposure that causes injury or illness to someone, a toxic tort can be filed against that company on behalf of the injured party. Toxic torts are extensive, painstaking lawsuits that can take many years to settle or close because the process of collecting evidence is meticulous. Some illnesses can take decades to set in, while some can be instant. In either situation, an attorney handling a toxic tort case must be able to establish evidence that connects the company to the source of the contamination.

Types of Toxic Torts

Toxic torts generally stem from occupational contact or through the use of contaminated prescription medication. However, there are a variety of typical situations from which toxic torts can occur, including but not limited to chemicals, consumer products, environmental exposure, and elements at both home and work. The most common cases of toxic torts are those that stem from pharmaceutical drugs, because the manner in which the toxic element is ingested is the most universal. Industrial cases are also quite common due to exposure to hazardous conditions and elements in manufacturing settings. An example of a well-known industrial toxic tort is asbestos exposure.

People who work in or around industrial environments are considerably more likely to face contamination than consumers or simply someone in their own home. However, the odds of a home contamination are still high due to factors like water contamination and mold.

Illnesses and Injuries

The most common forms of illness that result from exposure to chemicals and other toxic elements are cancer, blood disease and lung disease. Ultimately, the types of illnesses and injuries that are reported in toxic torts encompass a wide spectrum. These illnesses can be acute – progresses rapidly and appears almost instantly, but is not long-term – or chronic – lasting for longer periods, regressing and returning depending on the influence of medications and other health issues. The nature of the illness depends on the influencing toxic agent, which means that the results are unpredictable.

How Toxic Illnesses Occur

When a person is exposed to a toxic element, the body can ingest the chemical through the mouth, it can be absorbed through the skin and eyes, inhaled, or injected. Certain types of chemicals and substances can dictate the type of illness – for instance, asbestos exposure commonly leads to mesothelioma, while benzene has been associated with leukemia – however the exposure to a wider variety of chemicals can make the outcome indeterminable. Greater exposure to multiple chemicals can lead to a wide variety of illnesses and cancers.

The Respiratory System

The most dangerous form of chemical ingestion is through inhalation. When breathed in through the nose or mouth, chemicals can spread through the body more rapidly and cause significantly quicker damage to the body. The respiratory system is the body’s most efficient form of mass transportation for tiny particles and contaminants to affect the body’s immune system. Common illnesses associated with chemical toxins and the respiratory system include bronchitis, pneumonia, and pulmonary fibrosis.

Types of Toxic Injuries

Neurotoxicity – When a person is exposed to toxic substances, or neurotoxins, the damage caused can affect the nervous system and ultimately nervous tissue, which is irreparable.

Immunotoxic – An example of an immunotoxic injury or illness is leukemia, a cancer of the blood or bone marrow.

Genotoxicity – A genotoxic injury involves cell mutation, with the most common type being the formation of tumors as a result of compromised cell structure.

Mutagenic – This type of injury stems from chemical toxins altering the DNA, which causes mutations and ultimately various types of cancer.

Teratogenic – These are injuries that are developed in the womb, commonly known as birth defects.

Handling a Toxic Tort Case

Toxic tort cases are extensive and elaborate. They can cost a great deal of money for travel, resources, and collecting evidence, and they can take considerable time and manpower in collecting witness statements, conducting and reviewing expert testimonies, and deliberating with all parties involved. Handling a toxic tort is an arduous task, thus making it essential that you have the advantage of an experienced, knowledgeable, and determined attorney representing your best interests.