Exposure to toxic chemicals at construction sites can cause severe health problems for workers and bystanders alike. While some health effects may last a short while, others can have significant long-term consequences, costing people thousands in medical bills and sharply hampering their quality of life. It’s tough to know what to do in this situation or what your options are for meeting your short- and long-term needs.
At Cooper Schall & Levy, we understand the pain and confusion that comes with toxic chemical exposure injuries. We see the person behind the injury and are driven by a passion to help. Our attorneys bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, along with a proven record of big results. Whether you were exposed to toxic substances as a construction worker or were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, we can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight on your behalf for maximum compensation. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
Injuries and Illnesses from Toxic Chemicals at Construction Sites
One vital reason to hire a lawyer after exposure to toxic chemicals is the severe effects such exposure can have on your short-term and long-term health. Here are some potential injuries and illnesses you might experience:
- Skin Irritation and Burns: Direct contact with hazardous chemicals can cause severe skin reactions, including rashes, burns, and dermatitis. These conditions can range from mild irritation to serious burns requiring immediate medical attention.
- Respiratory Problems: Inhalation of toxic fumes can lead to acute respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can contribute to more severe conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancer.
- Eye Damage: Chemical splashes or vapors can irritate or burn the eyes, leading to pain, blurred vision, or even temporary blindness. Long-term exposure can result in lasting vision impairment.
- Neurological Effects: Some chemicals can affect the nervous system, causing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea in the short term. Long-term exposure may lead to more severe neurological disorders, including peripheral neuropathy or cognitive impairments.
- Cancer: Certain chemicals are known carcinogens and can sharply increase the risk of developing various types of cancer, especially those related to the lungs, skin, or blood.
How Do Toxic Chemical Exposure Incidents Happen at Construction Sites?
Toxic chemical exposure incidents at construction sites can happen in many ways. Some of the most common causes of these incidents include:
- Improper storage of chemicals
- Lack of protective gear for workers
- Spills and leaks during handling or transport
- Inadequate ventilation in work areas
- Failure to follow safety protocols
- Use of outdated or damaged equipment
- Insufficient training on hazardous materials
- Mishandling of toxic substances
- Accidental mixing of incompatible chemicals
- Neglect in disposing of chemical waste
Compensation for Construction Workers Exposed to Toxic Chemicals
Construction workers exposed to toxic chemicals on the job typically have two main avenues for recovering compensation:
- Workers’ Compensation Claims: This is often the initial step for injured workers. Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim allows injured workers to receive compensation without having to prove fault. Workers’ comp benefits typically cover all medical expenses related to workplace injury or illness, a portion of the employee’s lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. One limiting factor in workplace injury cases is that employees who qualify for workers’ comp benefits typically cannot sue their employer for their injuries.
- Third-Party Injury Claims: If a construction worker is exposed to toxic chemicals because of a contractor, equipment manufacturer or another party who is not their employer or a fellow employee, they might have grounds for a third-party personal injury claim. Filing a third-party claim can lead to broader compensation, including full lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages, which are not covered under workers’ compensation. However, winning a personal injury claim requires the injured worker to prove someone else caused their injury.
Compensation for Bystanders Exposed to Toxic Chemicals at Construction Sites
Bystanders injured from toxic chemical exposure at construction sites can file a personal injury claim against anyone whose negligent actions or other legal fault caused the initial exposure. The potentially liable parties include construction workers, the construction company, the property owner, equipment manufacturers, and so on. Assuming they can prove someone else caused their injury through negligent or intentional conduct, injured bystanders can seek substantial compensation for:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced future earnings due to a disability
- Diminished quality of life
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Why You Need a Toxic Chemical Exposure Attorney for Your Case
A successful toxic chemical exposure case requires a deep understanding of both legal and medical issues. A skilled attorney can investigate the incident, gather crucial evidence, and help you hold the responsible parties accountable. That way, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal challenges, making a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Deadline to Take Legal Action After a Toxic Chemical Exposure
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry says injured employees must notify their employer about a workplace injury or illness within 120 days to claim any workers’ comp benefits, unless the claim involves an occupational disease. Pennsylvania law gives injured parties two years from the day they sustained their injury to file a lawsuit in most circumstances, though there are some exceptions. The bottom line is that you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your right to compensation and give yourself the best possible chance of winning your case.
Contact Our Pennsylvania Toxic Exposure Attorneys Now
Have you been exposed to toxic chemicals in Pennsylvania? If so, Cooper Schall & Levy wants to get you the money you need to move on with your life. Our team is ready to start on your case immediately and be your champion in your fight for fair compensation. Call us today or reach out online for a free consultation.
