Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuit FAQ

Syngenta, a Paraquat manufacturer, knew the product’s devastating effects on users – particularly its link to Parkinson’s Disease (PD) – and still marketed and sold the herbicide. The attorneys of Carey Danis & Lowe represent victims who sustained an injury at the hands of America’s largest corporations, like Syngenta. We have the resources, knowledge, and expertise to represent you in a Parkinson’s Disease lawsuit.

If you or a loved one was exposed to Paraquat and subsequently experienced debilitating injury or illness, don’t hesitate to contact our attorneys for a free case consultation. We will fight for your rights, demand just compensation for your pain and suffering, and hold the Paraquat chemical manufacturers accountable.

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Common Questions Regarding a Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuit

We understand that filing a lawsuit against the makers of Paraquat can feel overwhelming. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions regarding a Parkinson’s Disease lawsuit so you can make an educated decision.

What is Paraquat, and what is it used for?

Paraquat is a weed and grass killer used by farmers and corporations in commercial crop operations, such as cotton, wheat, corn, garlic, and others. No-till operations also use Paraquat for row crops because its chemicals kill the unwanted growth before planting.

Paraquat also plays roles outside of agricultural functions. Individuals spray the herbicide to kill plants along highways, pastures, and around storage yards or commercial buildings. It’s important to note that Paraquat is still in use, and the number is rising as more weeds become Roundup-resistant. It works by breaking down plant cell walls so they can’t hold water, and as a result, they die.

Who makes Paraquat?

Syngenta manufactures Paraquat. Its parent company, Syngenta AG, is Switzerland-based and now owned by ChemChina. The United States branch is Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC, in Greensboro, North Carolina.

When Paraquat entered the market in 1964, Chevron was the sole distributor. However, in the years following 1986, Syngenta relied on a vast network of regional distributors, such as GrowMark.

What are Paraquat’s trade names?

Paraquat boasts several trade names. Below are the most commonly known:

  • Gramoxone®
  • Cyclone®
  • CycloneStar®
  • Firestorm®
  • Helmquat
  • Parazone®
  • Tigris™
  • Quick-Quat™
  • Purgatory 3™ SL
  • Willowood Paraquat 3SL
  • Blanco®
  • Devour™
  • Para-SHOT 3.0
  • RedEagle
  • Solera (Paraquat Concentrate)

How dangerous is Paraquat?

Paraquat is so dangerous to humans that, starting in 1978, all users must register and have a special license for purchasing. It kills plants on immediate contact, and less than a teaspoon can kill a person if directly ingested.

Is Paraquat a restricted-use pesticide (RUP)?

Gramoxone and other pesticides containing Paraquat are RUPs in the United States. As a result, only certified licensed applicators can purchase the herbicide. For years, anyone could use Paraquat so long as an authorized person purchased it. Therefore, many farmers and workers were exposed to the chemical – even though it was purchased and used legally.

Why is Paraquat still used in the United States?

In a 2016 regulatory filing, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) acknowledged the link between Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease. However, years later, the agency reapproved Paraquat’s use in the US.

Their reapproval received significant pushback, so they responded in July 2021 with guidelines on how to use Paraquat safely. However, even certified applicators who have passed testing can still suffer from toxic exposure – primarily because Paraquat is a spray. It’s probable that applicators can accidentally inhale or absorb the chemicals through their skin.

Where is Paraquat banned?

Currently, over 50 countries around the world have prohibited Paraquat use. A small amount can kill an adult, and its toll on animals and the delicately balanced ecosystem is immense. Some countries that have banned Paraquat products include:

  • China
  • Brazil
  • The United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Finland
  • Norway
  • Sweden
  • Australia

How does Paraquat affect humans?

Humans can encounter Paraquat hazards in various ways, such as inhalation (breathing it in), ingestion (eating or drinking), or skin contact. Immediate side effects of Paraquat exposure include symptoms such as stomach pain, dehydration, or confusion. Other more adverse side effects can occur over time.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological disorder presenting stiffness, tremors, inability to walk or move, depression, anxiety, speech difficulties, severe gastrointestinal problems, and eventually, a constant need for care. Individuals with Parkinson’s typically suffer for a decade or longer.

Although many with the nervous system disorder don’t die due to Parkinson’s, they experience many complications like pneumonia, infections, and falls. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Parkinson’s, but medication may manage symptoms.

Is there a correlation between Paraquat and Parkinson’s?

There is a strong link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s Disease. Scientists have shown that the chemical inhibits and halts the brain’s ability to produce dopamine, an essential neurotransmitter, through oxidative stress. Losing dopamine can lead to impaired fine motor skills, a primary symptom of Parkinson’s.

The herbicide can increase the risk of PD by swallowing or simply living near an area where it’s sprayed. While proven successful in farming, human oxidative stress has negative, damaging, and irreversible effects. Therefore, an increasing number of victims across the US are filing Parkinson’s Disease lawsuits.

How is Parkinson’s Disease diagnosed?

Unfortunately, individuals often receive a diagnosis after substantial damage has already occurred. In fact, numerous people with Parkinson’s don’t realize they have it until symptoms become significant.

There is no single test used to diagnose the disorder. Instead, a movement disorder specialist performs a battery of tests. Frequently, patients don’t receive diagnoses until approximately 60-80% of their dopamine neurotransmitters are destroyed.

Who is at risk?

Anyone who has worked with or around Paraquat is at greater risk of developing an injury. Those who use it are 2.5 times more likely than the general population to develop Parkinson’s Disease.

Overall, those exposed to Paraquat and later diagnosed with Parkinson’s may be eligible to file a lawsuit. You have legal options if you suspect your PD traces back to Paraquat exposure; however, you must provide information regarding the time and place you were subjected.

Additionally, if you take medication for PD-related symptoms following Paraquat exposure, you may qualify for litigation without an official diagnosis. The lawyers of Carey Danis & Lowe can investigate your case, determine if you have a factual claim, and represent you in your Parkinson’s Disease lawsuit.

Why file a Parkinson’s Disease lawsuit against Paraquat’s manufacturers?

Since its introduction in 1964, Syngenta and its predecessors have profited billions of dollars from the sale of Paraquat, knowing full well that it harms those who rely on it for their livelihood. They have caused immeasurable damage, pain, and suffering, and victims should receive compensation for their losses.

These corporations have placed profits over innocent people’s lives, and they must take responsibility for their negligent actions. They should have known about the toxicity of their product and its link with Parkinson’s Disease. They also failed to warn chemical users about the health consequences and didn’t protect them from exposure.

Filing a Parkinson’s Disease lawsuit raises awareness and helps prevent Syngenta and its related corporations from harming future generations. When you work with experienced attorneys like the Carey Danis & Lowe team, you can receive fair and just compensation for your suffering.

Contact Carey Danis & Lowe About Your Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuit

Statutes of limitations for Paraquat claims vary depending on where you live, so you must contact the experienced personal injury attorneys of Carey Danis & Lowe as soon as possible for a free case consultation. We’re dedicated to fighting for victims’ rights. Call us or complete our online form to discuss your potential Parkinson’s Disease lawsuit.

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