Toxic Exposure and Environmental Injuries

Exposure to asbestos, benzene, lead, pesticides, contaminated water and other toxic substances can cause serious illnesses that may not appear until years later. Proving the connection between exposure and illness requires detailed history and scientific evidence.

We help people and families harmed by occupational and environmental exposure investigate where exposure occurred, which companies are responsible and what deadlines apply.

Case Types We Handle

Our Toxic Exposure and Environmental Injuries practice includes 14 case types. Select one to learn more.

• Asbestos Exposure and MesotheliomaAsbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma and other diseases decades after exposure in workplaces, homes and products.
• Occupational Chemical ExposureOccupational chemical exposure involves workers harmed by hazardous substances without adequate protection.
• Industrial Toxic ExposureIndustrial toxic exposure affects workers and communities near facilities that release harmful substances.
• Toxic Fume InhalationToxic fume inhalation involves breathing harmful gases or vapors that damage the lungs and nervous system.
• Lead PoisoningLead poisoning often involves children exposed to lead paint, dust or water in older housing.
• Pesticide Exposure InjuriesPesticide exposure injuries affect farmworkers, landscapers and residents exposed to harmful chemicals.
• Water Contamination InjuriesWater contamination injuries result from drinking or using water polluted by chemicals, bacteria or industrial waste.
• Air Pollution Injury ClaimsAir pollution injury claims involve harmful emissions from industrial sources affecting nearby residents.
• PFAS-Related Injury ClaimsPFAS-related claims involve so-called "forever chemicals" linked to certain illnesses and found in water and products.
• Hazardous Waste ExposureHazardous waste exposure involves improper disposal or storage of dangerous substances.
• Solvent and Benzene Exposure ClaimsSolvent and benzene exposure claims involve chemicals associated with blood cancers and other illnesses.
• Chemical Spill InjuriesChemical spill injuries involve sudden releases at facilities, rail lines and highways.
• Toxic Mold Injury ClaimsToxic mold claims involve landlords or owners who ignored moisture problems that led to harmful mold growth.
• Environmental Contamination Wrongful DeathEnvironmental contamination wrongful death claims involve fatal illnesses linked to pollution and toxic exposure.

Common Causes of Toxic Exposure and Environmental Injuries

• Asbestos in workplaces and products
• Industrial chemical and solvent exposure
• Contaminated drinking water
• Lead paint and pipes
• Pesticide and herbicide exposure
• Toxic mold in rental housing

Injuries and Losses We See

• Mesothelioma and lung cancer
• Other cancers
• Respiratory and lung disease
• Neurological damage
• Developmental harm to children

When Does the Deadline Start?

Because toxic illnesses can take years to develop, many states start the limitations period when the illness was, or reasonably should have been, discovered. Rules vary, and some claims may also be part of coordinated litigation. An early evaluation of your exposure history is important.

How We Investigate Toxic Exposure and Environmental Injuries Claims

Strong cases are built on evidence gathered early. Depending on the facts, we work to obtain:

• Employment and exposure history
• Environmental testing and agency records
• Product and safety data sheets
• Medical diagnosis and causation evidence

Who May Be Responsible

More than one party may share responsibility, which can increase the insurance coverage available. Potentially liable parties include:

• Manufacturers and suppliers of toxic products
• Employers and site operators
• Landlords and property owners
• Polluting companies and waste handlers

What to Do After an Incident

1. Get medical care and report the injury to your employer in writing
2. Note the equipment, conditions and companies involved
3. Photograph the scene and equipment if it is safe to do so
4. Collect co-worker and witness names
5. Keep copies of medical and employment records
6. Speak with an attorney about third-party claims

Compensation You May Be Able to Recover

Depending on the facts and the law that applies, a claim may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain, suffering and emotional distress
• Rehabilitation, long-term care and home modification costs
• Property damage and other out-of-pocket losses

Why Acting Early Matters

Every state sets deadlines for filing injury claims, and claims involving government entities can require formal notice within a much shorter time. Video footage, records and physical evidence can be lost quickly. Speaking with an attorney early protects your options.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

We investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, document the full extent of your losses and pursue a fair settlement — and we are prepared to go to court when an insurer will not be reasonable. Personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Consultations are free and confidential.