Lead Poisoning
Lead Poisoning and Getting Legal Help
Lead poisoning is a serious health issue and a serious legal matter as well. Lead is a highly toxic metal used for many years in products found in and around the home. While there are many sources of lead, the most common is lead-based paint found in many older homes. The federal government banned lead-based paint from housing in 1978, and it was banned in New York City in 1960. In general, the older your home, the more likely lead-based paint will be found there. Other places and activities where lead can be found include soil, drinking water and children’s jewelry.
Lead is a dangerous substance, especially for young children. Lead can enter the body when someone puts his or her hands or other objects covered with lead dust into their mouths. Lead can also enter the body when someone eats paint chips or soil containing lead, or breathes in lead dust, especially during property renovation projects that disturb painted surfaces.
Babies and young children are more susceptible to lead poisoning because they often put their hands or other objects in their mouths. Their growing bodies also absorb more lead, and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead.
If not detected early, children with high levels of lead can suffer from:
- Damage to the brain and nervous system
- Behavior and learning problems
- Slowed growth
- Hearing problems
- Headaches
Although less susceptible to lead poisoning than children, adults can suffer from:
- Difficulties during pregnancy
- Other reproductive problems (found in both men and women)
- High blood pressure
- Digestive problems
- Nerve disorders
- Memory and concentration problems
- Muscle and joint pain
Take action :
- If you suspect that there is lead in your home, contact a qualified professional to assess the lead content of the paint in your home.
- If you have concerns that you or your family has been exposed to lead, have your children's lead levels measured through a simple blood test.
- In the event that you have used products containing lead, or if you are concerned that you and your family have been exposed to lead around the home you should first seek immediate medical attention.
- Next, you should get lead poisoning legal advice from our experienced attorneys. We will be happy to meet with you to discuss your legal options to protect your rights (such as filing lawsuits) for any injuries caused by lead exposure.
- We work on a contingency basis, which means that you don’t pay a cent until you receive compensation, at which point you are charged a percentage of the settlement.
We have represented, and obtained substantial verdicts and settlements for, dozens of lead-poisoned children. We have obtained a $50,000,000 verdict -- the highest ever reported in New York State -- for a child seriously injured due to lead paint poisoning.
Click here for lead poisoning legal representation from our experienced NY law firm. You may also call toll free to discuss a potential lead poisoning lawsuit at: 1-800-9-LIPSIG. The first consultation is free.