Lead Poisoning Among Children in California
Recover Financial Compensation After Your Child Has Contracted Lead Poisoning
An exposure to deteriorated lead-based paint and lead poisoning has caused illnesses to thousands of children throughout the nation. Under the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act, California has recognized that lead exposure causes the most significant environmental health concerns among children in the state. Regrettably, we don’t have all the potential results about the long-term medical aid costs, severity, or location of these issues. However, what is known is that overexposure to this toxic substance can affect a child’s red blood cells, renal system, developing nervous system, and brain, resulting in devastating damages and losses.
The Health Effects of Childhood Lead Poisoning
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, safe blood levels of lead among children have not been finally determined. Unfortunately, even small amounts of lead in a child’s blood stream have been shown to affect the child’s ability to pay attention, level of IQ and academic advancement.
Other medical impairments from toxic lead exposure include:
- Slowed growth and development,
- Behavioral issues,
- Learning disabilities,
- Speech problems,
- Hearing issues, and
- Underperformance levels in school
Evidence also suggests that exposure during early development could have long-term, serious, consequences. Additionally, studies indicate that the effects of such poisoning can be irreversible. Ultimately, the medical consequences of lead exposure and poisoning are extremely serious and can affect a person’s life forever.
Premises Liability & Lead Poisoning
The use of lead-based paint was made unlawful across the U.S. in 1978. Rental properties in California built before 1978 probably were painted with lead-based paint. California’s standard of care places an obligation on property managers and landlords to inspect their property for any peeling, deteriorating, cracking, or chalking of lead paint, and to take corrective measures to avoid exposure.
When a property manager is aware of the existence of lead-based paint in the premises, they have a responsibility to take adequate steps to negate the risk, remove the harmful paint and use methods of removal or abatement that do not expose the tenants to harm.
Regrettably, there are many property owners and landlords that do not care about the conditions of the property, much less, the health and safety of their tenants. By placing their profits over the safety of their tenants, these landlords could be held accountable for the injuries and ailments of their tenants.
Speak to an Experienced Premises Liability Attorney
Victims that have suffered lead-based poisoning have strict time limits from the time of knowing about the exposure/injury to file a complaint in the courts. Some time limits are very short. Immediate action is recommended. If you or someone you know suffered poisoning from lead-based products, it is important to act quickly; seek the legal support of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney today.
The attorneys at Heiting & Irwin have many years of dedicated experience assisting victims of premises liability negligence to seek financial compensation for their injuries. If you or your child has been exposed to lead poisoning because of a careless property owner, seek the legal support of a skilled attorney as soon as possible. A successful premises liability lawsuit can help you win the compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses, time off work, and long-term medical care. Consult a proficient attorney straightway.