Any time a person is exposed to lead, their health is at risk. Adults can suffer from lead poisoning, but the condition is far more common and serious in children. The federal government banned lead-based paint in 1978, years before Irvine was formally incorporated. As a result, many of the homes, schools, and buildings that were built prior to the ban still contain lead-based paint. There are laws that property owners must comply with when the building they own contains lead. Any time these laws are violated and people become hurt, victims can file a claim for damages. Our Irvine lead poisoning lawyer can help you obtain the full settlement you deserve.
Children Suffer Long-Term Effects of Lead PoisoningLead poisoning in children is all too common. When infants are exposed, the increased lead levels in the system are not usually found until the child’s first birthday. This means a child can be exposed for long periods, suffering harm without anyone knowing about it. Lead poisoning is serious and a child will suffer long-term effects after exposure.
One of the most common long-term effects of lead poisoning is developmental delays. Children may exhibit lower IQs and may not reach milestones such as talking and walking as early as other children their age. Behavioral issues, autism, and ADHD are also conditions children may experience when they suffer from lead poisoning.
Determining Liability for Lead PoisoningWhen filing a personal injury claim for injuries caused by lead poisoning, you must prove who is liable, or at fault, for your losses. If you are a tenant and there is lead in your rental unit, your landlord has a legal obligation to disclose that information before you sign the lease. Under the current EPA regulations, your landlord can be held liable for paying damages to you if they did not properly disclose the presence of lead in the home. If you own your home and purchased from a previous owner, they are also required to tell you about the presence of lead under the law.
It is not always easy to determine liability, as other parties could be liable in addition to owners and landlords. For example, a homeowner may hire an inspector to determine the presence of lead. If the inspector does not conduct the inspection properly and overlooks the presence of lead, they could also be held liable for paying damages. A lead poisoning lawyer in Irvine can determine who is liable for your losses, and hold them accountable for paying the full compensation you are entitled to.
Contact Our Experienced Lead Poisoning Attorney in Irvine for a Free ConsultationIf you or your child has been negligently exposed to lead, you should know that you have legal options. At Brod Law Firm, our Irvine lead poisoning attorney can advise you of what those are, and help you claim the full settlement you and your family deserves. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.