Many people think that lead poisoning is a thing of the past, and in many new homes in Santa Maria, it is. Lead-based paint was federally banned in 1978, and today, new buildings do not contain it. Unfortunately, many of the homes in Santa Maria were painted before the dangers of lead paint were widely known, and today, they still contain the toxic substance. Many people purchase or rent these homes and move in with their families without knowing the dangers they contain. Below, our Santa Maria lead poisoning lawyer explains more.
Injuries Caused by Lead PoisoningWhile lead is a toxic substance, the human body does not recognize it as such. Due to this, when lead is inhaled or consumed, it enters the bloodstream and is distributed throughout the body. According to the World Health Organization, there is no amount of lead that is safe within the human body.
Homes and other buildings that were constructed before 1978 can still contain lead paint. Additionally, due to the fact that these structures are older, the paint is more likely to peel and leave flakes lying on the floor. Children may then play with the flakes, putting them in their mouths and sending the dust from them into the air, where they are then inhaled. For children, the injuries caused by lead poisoning are particularly dangerous, as their brains are still developing.
Some of the most common injuries associated with lead poisoning are as follows:
Children, in particular, may have lower IQs due to lead poisoning, and that may stay with them for their entire lives. Not only can this negatively impact their future prospects, but children may also require more intensive caretaking that can impact the daily lives of everyone in your family.
Who is Liable for Lead Poisoning?Since lead-based paint was banned in 1978 and manufacturers no longer use it in their products, it is not possible to hold paint manufacturers liable for lead poisoning. Instead, the burden is placed on property owners, builders, and managers to provide sufficient warning. When property owners are aware of the presence of lead on the premises, and they do not warn tenants, buyers, or visitors of the danger, they can be held liable.
Holding property owners liable for lead poisoning is never easy. If you or your child has suffered injuries, it is important to work with a Santa Maria lead poisoning attorney.
Our Lead Poisoning Lawyer in Santa Maria Can Help Your FamilyAt Brod Law Firm, our lead poisoning attorney in Santa Maria will conduct an investigation to determine who is liable for the injuries sustained. We can also help you hold them accountable for paying damages so you obtain the full and fair settlement you rightfully deserve. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or fill out our online form to schedule a free review of your case with our experienced attorney and to learn more about your legal options.