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Pesticides have forever changed agriculture, but not without consequences for those exposed to these toxic chemicals. Cancer, reproductive problems, and other ailments, diseases, and disorders are common results of pesticide exposure. Fortunately, if you were exposed to these substances on farms in the Syracuse area, you have legal rights.
The attorneys of Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC are here to assist you. We are experienced litigators who work on behalf of New York individuals who have suffered harm due to contact with pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
The Health Consequences of Pesticide Exposure
If you’ve ever seen someone spraying pesticides, you’ve likely seen them wear a hazardous materials suit. This gives you an idea of how dangerous pesticides are. Victims who were exposed to them have reported these medical issues:
- Cancer
- Hormone disruption
- Reproductive problems
- Suppression of their immune system
Being in the proximity of such substances for a long amount of time can lead to major medical bills, lost time from work, disability, and even death. But even short-term exposure can lead to nausea, headaches, vomiting, skin irritation, and other problems.
You May Have Been Exposed
Anyone who lives or works on or near a Syracuse-area farm can easily be exposed to pesticides. Even if you were not in the immediate vicinity of these chemicals when they were sprayed, you might have come in contact with them.
That’s because the wind can easily pick up and carry pesticides to other locations. Large quantities of these chemicals can reach areas where they were never intended to go, poisoning the air and water along the way. Anyone who works in or close to the New York farming industry is a potential victim.
Signs of Pesticide Exposure
Many victims of pesticide exposure are agricultural workers, farmers, and the individuals who regularly handle these chemicals. But others are simply residents of surrounding areas, sometimes many miles away. You should see a doctor if you’ve experienced these signs:
- Unusual sweating
- Excessive salivation
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Muscle twitching or weakness
- Vision problems
Although these and other symptoms can be indicative of various disorders, you should be concerned with them if you live near a Syracuse farm.
Who is Responsible for My Pesticide Exposure Injury?
Various parties are responsible for handling and using pesticides, which means there are different individuals and entities you could theoretically name in a lawsuit. Examples include:
- The manufacturer or distributor of the pesticide
- The manufacturer or distributor of the equipment used to spray the pesticide
- The owner or leaser of the property where the chemicals were sprayed
A farmer or resident who was exposed to pesticides could potentially take legal action to seek compensation for their medical bills and other losses. Having a dedicated law firm by your side will make a difference.
The Benefit of Experienced Legal Counsel
If you suspect that you have suffered pesticide exposure, see a doctor and begin a treatment regimen. Once you have begun that, it’s time to discuss your legal rights with an experienced Syracuse personal injury lawyer. We can assist you by:
- Investigating how the pesticide exposure happened and who was responsible for it
- Acquiring the evidence you need to prove legal liability on the part of the at-fault party
- Determining a fair amount of compensation for your medical bills, lost time from work, and other personal injury damages
- Negotiating with the insurance companies who insure the at-fault party, especially if they are reluctant to settle
- Retaining expert witnesses who can explain complex medical and chemical matters related to pesticide exposure
- Taking your case to trial if the at-fault parties refuse to negotiate in good faith
Did You Suffer Pesticide Exposure? Talk to Us About Your Options
You should not be sickened because of someone’s negligent use of unsafe chemicals like pesticides. Do you live near a Syracuse farm where pesticides may have been used? Are you unsure if you have been exposed to these substances?
It’s time to speak with CDH Law. You can schedule your confidential consultation with our dedicated legal team by giving us a call or completing our online contact form.