What is a toxic tort case?
By Hartley and O’Brien, PLLC
Mar. 12, 2013 10:25a
A toxic tort legal case in one in which the claimant asserts that he or she has been harmed due to exposure to a dangerous or toxic substance. These types of claims may stem from exposure at work, exposure in the home, exposure from consumer products and from pharmaceutical drugs. Examples of occupational exposure include those who have developed diseases from asbestos or benzene. Exposure to asbestos can result in mesothelioma which is a form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs. The types of jobs that are related to this disease due to asbestos exposure includes construction workers, asbestos mine workers, millers, or manufacturing plant workers, car mechanics, demolition or renovation workers, shipyard workers, boiler workers, insulators, and U.S. Navy veterans.
Benzene may also be a toxic factor behind mesothelioma as well as other forms of cancer. Benzene is a solvent which dissolves other substances and is used in such products as paint, ink, glues, dyes, cleaning products, plastics, rubbers, and other materials. Those who come in contact with benzene may absorb it through the skin or through inhaling it. Because benzene is known to be carcinogenic, OSHA guidelines include the use of safety equipment and gear such as respirators for those workers who are exposed to substances containing it. Those who suffer health damage due to negligence concerning such toxic chemicals may need to initiate legal action for rightful damages in a toxic tort case brought before the courts.
West Virginia Personal Injury Attorney
The personal injury law firm of Hartley and O'Brian, PLLC, based in Wheeling, West Virginia has focused on representing individuals in toxic tort cases. The firm has more than 30 years of experience in this field and has obtained several million dollar judgments for its clients. These kinds of results have earned them an AV-Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the national lawyers' review organization, which is the highest rating possible. These types of cases can be extremely complex, which means that if you have developed an injury or disease due to exposure to toxic substances, you should consult with an attorney from the firm who has the practical experience, knowledge, and skills needed.
Contact the firm to learn more about how an attorney can help you or visit their website at www.personalinjurylawfirmwestvirginia.com to get valuable information about the subject.
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