Merced Childhood Lead Poisoning Lawyer
Lead is a very toxic substance, and even with new laws being enacted and the many awareness campaigns over the years, it is still very prevalent today. Lead can be harmful to both adults and children, but it is particularly dangerous for young children. It was in the 1970s and 1980s that lead was banned in many different products, including gasoline, paint, and plumbing systems. Before this time, though, toxic lead was present in chipped paint, corroded plumbing, and contaminated soil. Unfortunately, because Merced was not established until the end of the 1800s, it is still very prevalent today. If you believe that you or your child was exposed and is now suffering harm, our Merced childhood lead poisoning lawyer can help.
The Harmful Effects of Lead Poisoning in ChildrenEven though lead is an extremely toxic metal, the body does not recognize it as such. Due to this, the body does not eliminate it; instead, it is passed into the bloodstream. There is no safe amount of lead in the bloodstream, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Although lead poses a danger to anyone exposed to it, children are particularly vulnerable to these risks. When lead accumulates in the bodies of children, they can suffer from behavioral disorders, learning difficulties, and more for their entire lives. Often, educational, emotional, and occupational support are required.
Common Lead Poisoning SymptomsIt is critical that all parents can identify the most common signs of lead poisoning. While the damage already caused is irreversible, knowing the signs can prompt parents to remove the source of lead from their homes and determine who is liable for the harm caused. The most common symptoms of lead poisoning are as follows:
- Stunted growth
- Developmental delays
- Learning challenges
- Joint and muscle pain
- Speech delays
- Hearing loss
- Stomach cramps
- Sudden and unexplained fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Lack of appetite
- Constipation
- Sudden weight loss
- Irritability
- Behavioral problems
- Kidney issues
If you have noticed signs of lead poisoning in your child and believe someone else may be to blame, it is important to determine who is liable. There are many potentially liable parties in lead poisoning cases, including:
- Landlords:Landlords have a legal obligation to make sure rental units are habitable, which includes making sure lead is not present on the property.
- Property managers:Landlords often hire property managers to maintain rental units for them. These companies also have a legal duty to ensure they perform their job properly, which includes making sure there is no lead on the premises.
- Lead removal companies:After the dangers of lead are known, a lead removal company may be contacted. These entities also have a legal duty to perform their job properly, and when they do not, they can be held liable with the help of an experienced childhood lead poisoning attorney in Merced.
At Brod Law Firm, our Merced childhood lead exposure attorney can determine who is responsible for your child’s illness and hold them accountable for paying the full and fair compensation your family is entitled to. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case review and to learn more about how we can help.