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It’s tempting to think of lead poisoning as a problem that’s largely of a bygone era, when paint in old buildings caused widespread problems for children. But the truth is that the problem is still ongoing and may even be getting worse. Lead poisoning can have serious, long-lasting effects, especially on growing children. Someone who is affected by lead poisoning may have grounds for filing a lawsuit.
The sources and risks of lead poisoning
Despite regulatory efforts to reduce or eliminate lead from historical sources like lead and other construction materials, it remains present in a wide variety of items. A huge variety of products have been found to contain lead, from ceramic tile to cosmetics. Many products that are imported from overseas, including toys and food products, may contain significantly higher doses of lead than would be allowed under U.S. regulations. Part of the challenge of lead poisoning comes from the fact that even very small amounts in a person’s bloodstream can be extremely toxic. It can cause a wide range of serious medical problems. In children lead poisoning can be especially serious, leading to developmental problems, cognitive issues, pain, and even seizures. Adults may experience high blood pressure, mood disorders, and memory problems, among other things.
Liability for lead poisoning
For someone who has been affected by lead poisoning and wants to pursue legal action to recover compensation for its related costs, a preliminary challenge is often to identify the source of the lead. Exposure to even small amounts of lead can cause significant problems. Tracing the source can require extensive, expert analysis of the environment where the affected person lives. The presence of lead paint in an old rental property might offer a clear-cut case. But finding the lead in, say, a particular toy may require considerably more work. The theories that a plaintiff might sue to recover compensation for lead poisoning will vary according to the lead’s source. A tenant who lives in a building with undisclosed lead paint might have a good case for premises liability against the landlord. The parents of a child poisoned by a toy could have a strong case of products liability against the manufacturer, importer, and marketer of the toy. In each case, the plaintiff can seek compensation for medical treatment as well as remedial care to help the affected individual improve their quality of life.
GGRM handles lead poisoning litigation in Las Vegas
For over 45 years the law firm of Greenman Goldberg Raby Martinez has represented Las Vegas clients in cases involving personal injury, premises liability, and products liability. If you or a loved one has suffered from lead poisoning, please reach out to us today for a free attorney consultation about your legal options. Call us at 702-388-4476 or send us a request through our contact page.