Paraquat Lawsuit FAQs

What Is Paraquat?

Paraquat is a chemical used to kill unwanted weeds in agriculture. It has been used on American crops for decades because it is highly effective and cheap to manufacture. However, studies show a troubling trend of paraquat poisoning and potential long-term effects like Parkinson’s disease.

In response to these studies, the EU, China, Brazil and dozens of other countries have banned paraquat in their countries. However, the chemical is still used in agricultural and landscaping applications across the U.S. Paraquat-containing products include:

• Gramoxone
• Paraquat Concentrate
• Blanco
• Cyclone SL 2.0
• Firestorm
• Helmquat
• Bonedry
• Devour
• Para-Shot 3.0

If you used these or other products containing paraquat and were later diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you could have grounds to sue for compensation.

Why Are People Suing Over Paraquat?

People are suing Paraquat manufacturers for health effects related to paraquat exposure, most notably Parkinson’s disease. A growing body of evidence indicates a connection between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s. Some individuals who were exposed to paraquat products in moderate to high amounts over an extended period are now receiving diagnoses of Parkinson’s disease.

The effects of Parkinson’s disease are debilitating. It affects the parts of the brain that control movement, leading to muscle tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement. Parkinson’s sufferers may also experience the following symptoms as the disease progresses:

• Fatigue
• Poor coordination
• Poor balance
• Depression
• Speech difficulties
• Difficulty chewing and swallowing
• Cognitive issues
• Dementia
• Urinary incontinence
• Bowel issues

Medical costs for diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s can be very high, and the disease is incurable. That means expenses are only likely to mount as the condition progresses, further affecting the victim’s ability to work and engage in daily activities.

Paraquat lawsuits aim to help victims, particularly those with Parkinson’s disease, recover compensation for the losses they suffered due to paraquat exposure.

What Damages Can I Claim in a Paraquat Lawsuit?

You could recover economic and non-economic damages in a paraquat lawsuit. Such damages may include:

• Medical diagnosis and treatment
• Medication, medical devices, and assistive equipment
• Lost income and reduced income potential
• Domestic help, childcare, and other out-of-pocket expenses due to Parkinson’s
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment
• Loss of consortium
• Reduced quality of life

Damages you could claim differ depending on the state where you file and the circumstances of your case. Speak with a paraquat attorney to learn more about damages you could recover.

Are There Currently Any Open Paraquat Lawsuits?

Thousands of people have filed lawsuits against paraquat manufacturers, including Chevron Chemical and Syngenta. Many have been consolidated under multidistrict litigation (MDL). On the federal level, MDL 3004 is being handled in the Southern District of Illinois, but there are also MDL claims in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Additional individual suits have been filed in other states.

Am I Eligible to File a Paraquat Lawsuit?

If you were exposed to moderate or high levels of paraquat for an extended period and you have received a Parkinson’s diagnosis, you may be eligible to file a claim. The Goldwater Law Firm offers free consultations to help you determine whether you qualify. If you have grounds to sue for paraquat exposure, we will direct you to a paraquat attorney near you.

How Do I File a Lawsuit for Paraquat Exposure?

Filing a paraquat lawsuit requires solid evidence of your exposure to paraquat-containing products and a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. The details of your case determine whether you can join an existing MDL or file an individual lawsuit against the manufacturers of paraquat. Every jurisdiction has different filing requirements.

The judge will review the information you have submitted and determine whether you have grounds to join the MDL. If not, you may still have grounds to pursue compensation through other avenues. A paraquat attorney can help you understand the legal process and assist you with filing your claim with the appropriate venue.

Do I Need a Paraquat Lawyer to File a Lawsuit?

Product defect lawsuits, like the Paraquat MDLs, are incredibly complicated. Large companies and their insurance companies often fight such claims to safeguard their profits and reputation. They will expend massive resources to avoid accountability.

A paraquat lawyer who handles mass tort claims like the paraquat MDLs will be ready to fight for your legal rights against giant corporations. While you focus on your health, an attorney can gather evidence, file a claim, and negotiate for a fair settlement.

During the lawsuit, your attorney will handle all communication related to your claim and keep you updated. As your case proceeds, they will submit evidence, file motions, and attend hearings and trial proceedings on your behalf. They will coach you through your deposition and defend you against aggressive or unfair practices.