There are dozens of companies that manufacture herbicides containing paraquat under different brand names nationwide.
All of these products are highly toxic, as paraquat exposure increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease by 100% to 500%. Paraquat was first manufactured for commercial purposes in 1961 and is one of the most commonly used herbicides worldwide.
While the original brand name of the herbicide was Gramoxone, today, it can be found in numerous products, such as:
Even though paraquat is very effective in destroying weeds and grasses, it can only be used by licensed applicators because of its toxicity. A single sip of the herbicide can be lethal. People who are exposed to paraquat, most of whom are farmworkers, might experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, nosebleeds, shortness of breath, lung damage, and organ failure. Those who use it without protective gear can experience paraquat poisoning if the product touches a cut on their skin.
Annually, over 10 million pounds of paraquat are used across the U.S. California is among the states that use paraquat in tremendous amounts, with approximately 1.3 million pounds used every year. Still, in the EU, the herbicide was banned in 1989, as there are many effective alternatives. The following are some herbicides that do not contain paraquat, and that can be used as substitutes:
Despite the fact that nearly 700 lawsuits have been filed by paraquat exposure victims nationwide, the herbicide has not been recalled yet and continues to be sprayed on dozens of crops. This greatly endangers the health of farmworkers, their families, and everyone who lives close to these crops. If you were exposed to paraquat and now struggle with Parkinson’s disease, you might be entitled to financial compensation, so do not hesitate to contact Atraxia Law to have your case evaluated.
With over 35 years of evaluating personal injury and product liability claims, our team of experts can assist you in determining whether you qualify for compensation from the liable paraquat manufacturers. If you worked with the herbicide or were otherwise exposed to it and developed Parkinson’s disease, you are most likely eligible to file a toxic exposure claim. Eligible individuals will promptly be put in touch with a specialized attorney.