Toxic Exposure Injuries in Kentucky

Americans, including those of us in Kentucky, are exposed to a growing number of dangerous chemicals and toxins in our every day lives, ranging from household cleaners to toys and cookware, to pesticides, to glues and paint thinners. Many people are further exposed to harmful toxins and chemicals in the workplace or by simply living in the area of manufacturing plants. Kentucky has many industrial plants and manufacturing facilities that produce, expel and dispose of toxic materials, toxic chemicals and toxic waste. These toxins can cause serious health problems such as breathing difficulties, chemical burns, organ damage (brain damage, lung injuries, heart injuries, etc), skin irritations and cancer.

Toxicity is the degree to which a chemical or substance can harm a human or animal. Toxicity can be acute, meaning dangerous effects occur after even a single exposure, or chronic, meaning harmful effects occur over long term exposure.

Health concerns arise when dangerous chemicals and/or toxins cause damage to external body tissue, for instance the eyes or skin, or internal tissue including organs such as our lungs, our heart or our brain. Toxic chemicals can enter the body via ingestion (by mouth), absorption through skin and eyes, or inhalation (by breathing).

Toxic Substances Pose Serious Health Risks

Use of some of these substances has been limited or banned by the EPA, such as asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation and flooring prior to 1989. However, toxicity of asbestos is chronic, so the effects of asbestos can take years or decades to appear. Health issues from asbestos can result in lung disease or mesothelioma, a type of cancer.

Emissions of many harmful or toxic gases or waste products are monitored by governmental entities. However, industry must be responsible to also monitor emissions and disposal. Errors, corruption, dishonesty, corporate greed, faulty equipment, etc. can lead to toxic exposure. Accidental exposure also occurs and can result in devastating consequences. Any type of toxic exposure may cause such serious problems such as:

People exposed to harmful chemicals may be entitled to damages under Toxic Tort Law or other negligence laws. If exposure and injury occur as a result of the negligence and/or criminal act of a person, company or industry, the injured person may have the right to bring a claim or lawsuit against the responsible person, company or industry. Therefore, it is critical for victims of toxic poisoning to understand their legal rights. If your exposure or injury occurred in Kentucky, a Kentucky attorney can help guide you through the complexities of a Toxic Injury Lawsuit. 

Please contact our Kentucky toxic exposure lawyers to discuss your toxic exposure case today at (502) 242-8877.