Los Angeles Lead Poisoning Lawyer

About Lead Poisoning

There are two main types of lead poisoning: acute and chronic. Acute lead poisoning happens quickly and can be severe, often caused by a large amount of lead entering your body in a short period. Symptoms can appear suddenly and are intense, including stomach pain, headache, and muscle weakness. Chronic lead poisoning is more common and results from being exposed to small amounts of lead over a long time. This type can be tricky because you might not feel sick right away, but it can harm your organs and lead to problems like memory loss, high blood pressure, and joint pain.

You can get lead poisoning in several ways, but it often comes from old paint, contaminated dust, and drinking water that’s traveled through lead pipes. Homes built before 1978 might still have lead-based paint, which becomes dangerous as it chips and turns into dust. Jobs like construction or working in auto repair shops can also expose you to lead. Even some hobbies, such as making stained glass, can put you at risk if you’re not careful.

In Los Angeles, you might encounter lead in older neighborhoods where the homes and buildings were built before 1978. These areas are more likely to have old paint that contains lead. Places with a lot of industrial history can also be hotspots for lead in the soil or air. Public parks and playgrounds near these areas might have contaminated dust. If you’re living in an older home or near industrial zones, it’s smart to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself and your family.

Potential Liable Parties for Lead Poisoning

If you get lead poisoning, several parties might be responsible. Landlords can be at the top of the list, especially if they didn’t fix lead paint problems in homes or apartments. If they knew about the lead and did nothing, they could be held accountable. Landlords must disclose any known lead-based paint and related dangers in properties built before 1978.

Companies that make or sell lead-based products, like paint, might also be responsible if they didn’t warn about the dangers. In Los Angeles, specific laws focus on protecting people from lead hazards.

If a product causes lead poisoning, you can pursue a product liability claim focusing on strict liability, negligence, and breach of warranty. Under strict liability, you would assert that the product was inherently unsafe when it left the manufacturer and that its use as intended caused the poisoning. A negligence claim would involve showing that the manufacturer failed to safely design or make the product, directly leading to the injury. Lastly, a breach of warranty claim would focus on the failure of the manufacturer to meet the stated or implied safety standards promised, resulting in harm from lead exposure. All these claims target those who made, marketed, or sold the toxic product.

Employers, especially in industries known for lead exposure, must follow safety regulations to protect their workers. If they don’t, they can be liable for any resulting health issues.

Legal Options for a Victim of Lead Poisoning

• As a victim of lead poisoning, you have rights, and taking legal action is one of them. The first step is usually to figure out where the exposure came from. This could be your home, workplace, or even a public space. Once you know, you can decide who to take legal action against. You might sue your landlord, an employer, or a product manufacturer, depending on your situation.
• In Los Angeles, you’d typically start by filing a complaint in civil court. This legal process requires evidence, like medical records showing lead levels in your blood and proof of where the exposure happened. It’s important to show that the party you’re suing knew about the lead risk and didn’t do anything to fix it. This might involve gathering documents, witness statements, and expert opinions.
• Having a lawyer can make a big difference. They can guide you through the legal process, help gather evidence, and represent you in court. Remember, there are time limits for filing a lawsuit, known as statutes of limitations. In California, these limits can vary, so it’s critical to act quickly.
• Throughout the lawsuit, you can seek to hold the responsible parties accountable. While the legal process can be lengthy and challenging, it offers a path to address the harm lead poisoning has caused in your life.

Potential Damages in a Lead Poisoning Case

In a lead poisoning case, you can recover different types of damages. Medical bills are a big one, covering both past and future care needed because of the poisoning. Lost wages, if you can’t work due to your illness, can also be claimed. There’s money for pain and suffering too, which means compensation for physical and emotional distress. California law allows for these damages and more even if you were partly at fault for your exposure, but your compensation might be reduced based on your share of the fault. If lead poisoning leads to someone’s death, their family can file a wrongful death lawsuit, seeking damages for things like funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

Steps to Take

If you suspect lead poisoning, see a doctor right away to get tested. If the test shows lead in your body, start treatment as recommended by your healthcare provider. Report the exposure to local health authorities; they can help identify the lead source and prevent further harm. Keep records of your medical visits, treatments, and any costs you incur. This information is crucial if you decide to seek legal action for your poisoning.

Role of Lead Poisoning Lawyer

A lead poisoning lawyer can guide you through the legal process to seek justice and compensation. They’ll gather evidence, like medical records and expert testimonials, to build a strong case. They know the laws and can walk you through complicated legal procedures, ensuring you meet all deadlines and file the necessary documents correctly. They’ll also represent you in negotiations or court, fighting for the best possible outcome. Having a knowledgeable lawyer by your side can make a big difference in the success of your case.

Contact Los Angeles Lead Poisoning Attorney Samer Habbas

If you or a loved one has suffered from lead poisoning, you don’t have to face it alone. Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC are here to help. Our team understands the serious impact lead poisoning can have on your life and is ready to fight for the compensation and justice you deserve. Contact Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC by calling (888) 848-5084 or contacting us online for a consultation with a Lead Poisoning attorney. Let us help you through this difficult time and work towards a brighter future.