Although lead is known to have harmful effects on human beings and other animals, it is still present in many of the spaces we inhabit. If you live or work in a building constructed before 1978, it is likely that there is lead-based paint in your home or workplace. Pipes, consumer products, water supplies, and gasoline products manufactured outside the United States and Canada can all contain lead, which can have harmful health effects for individuals who are exposed to the element for a prolonged period of time.
If you suffer the ill effects of lead poisoning, you could be entitled to seek compensation for your damages through a legal claim. The type of claim you file depends on the circumstances surrounding your exposure. Work with a lawyer who has experience handling the type of case you are facing and litigating such cases when necessary.
Lead Poisoning Effects on Adults
Adults can suffer the following effects of lead poisoning:
- High blood pressure;
- Headaches;
- Abdominal pain;
- Difficulties with concentration and memory; and
- Joint and muscle pain.
Lead Poisoning Effects on Children
Lead poisoning can cause the following health problems in children:
- Hearing loss;
- Seizures;
- Developmental delays;
- Abdominal pain; and
- Vomiting.
Lead poisoning can also have an impact on a developing fetus, putting it at risk of developmental delays and even miscarriage.
Seeking Compensation for your Damages Resulting from Lead Poisoning
If you were exposed to lead in your workplace and plan to pursue a Workers’ Compensation claim, you do not need to demonstrate that another party was at fault for your lead exposure.
If you plan to pursue any type of personal injury claim, such as a product liability or premises liability claim, you will need to use evidence to demonstrate that you were exposed to lead through another party’s negligence. The evidence you use can include your medical tests showing an elevated level of lead in your blood, photographs of the peeling lead paint or the product that contained lead, and documentation showing your damages related to the lead exposure. Your lawyer can help you obtain the necessary pieces of evidence to support your lead poisoning claim.
Work with an Experienced La Crosse Litigation Lawyer
If you are experiencing the effects of lead poisoning after living in a rented apartment or house that contained a dangerous level of exposed lead, work with an experienced litigation lawyer to assert your rights as a tenant to seek compensation for your damages. If your lead exposure came from your work environment, you may have the right to seek Workers’ Compensation and if the lead exposure was due to a dangerous consumer product, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. To determine the category into which your case fits and how you can pursue it, speak with one of the experienced litigation lawyers at Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd. Contact our firm today to schedule your initial consultation with us.