Toxic Exposure Lawyer in West Texas

Exposure to toxic chemicals can cause cancer, lung disease, nerve damage and other serious illnesses, sometimes years after the exposure. In legal terms, a "toxic tort" is a claim that someone was harmed by exposure to a dangerous substance because another party acted carelessly. If you or a family member became ill after exposure at work, at home or in your community, the Daspit Law Firm can investigate and explain your options.

What Is a Toxic Tort?

A toxic tort is a personal injury claim based on exposure to a hazardous substance. These cases are complex. They usually require proof of what you were exposed to, how much, for how long, and that the exposure caused your illness. They often depend on scientific and medical experts.

Common Toxic Exposures

•       Asbestos, which can cause mesothelioma and other diseases, see asbestos and mesothelioma

•       Benzene and other solvents and petrochemicals

•       Hydrogen sulfide and other toxic gases in oil and gas work

•       Silica dust

•       Pesticides and herbicides

•       Lead and other heavy metals

•       Contaminated water and soil, see property contamination

•       Dangerous drugs and defective products, see product liability and medical and pharmaceutical injuries

Where Exposure Happens

•       Oil fields, plants and refineries, see oil field accidents and plant and refinery accidents

•       Construction sites and demolition work, see construction accidents

•       Factories and industrial workplaces, see industrial accidents

•       Homes and rental housing

•       Communities near industrial sites

Health Effects of Toxic Exposure

•       Cancer

•       Lung and respiratory disease

•       Neurological damage

•       Kidney and liver damage

•       Birth defects and reproductive harm

•       Skin conditions and chemical burns

Who May Be Responsible?

Depending on the facts, responsible parties may include employers, property owners, contractors, manufacturers of hazardous products, and companies that released toxic substances into the environment. If you were exposed at work, workers' comp or non-subscriber rules may affect your claim. See workers' compensation and non-subscriber work injuries.

What Compensation May Be Available?

•       Medical expenses and future care

•       Lost wages and lost earning capacity

•       Pain and suffering and mental anguish

•       Wrongful death damages for families, see wrongful death

•       Exemplary damages in cases of gross negligence

Frequently Asked Questions About Toxic Exposure Claims

What is a toxic tort?

A personal injury lawsuit claiming that exposure to a toxic substance caused illness or injury.

How do I prove that a chemical caused my illness?

Evidence typically includes work history, exposure records, safety data sheets, medical records, and expert opinions on causation.

What if I was exposed years ago?

Many illnesses appear long after exposure. The filing deadline can depend on when you knew or should have known the cause, but it is risky to wait. Speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

What is the deadline to file?

Generally two years, but when the clock starts can differ in exposure cases. Special rules apply to some diseases such as asbestos and silica.

Can I sue if I was exposed at work?

Possibly. If your employer carries workers' comp, that may limit claims against the employer, but third parties such as manufacturers or other contractors may be responsible.

What should I keep as evidence?

Medical records, work history, product names, safety data sheets, photographs, and any employer notices or incident reports.