Lead Poisoning
Lower Southampton PA Lead Poisoning Attorneys
Advocating for Victims of Lead Poisoning in Bucks County and Northeast Philadelphia
The adverse health effects of lead exposure are well-documented, compelling a vast array of federal and state legislation, government initiatives, environmental programs, and other mechanisms aimed at eradicating the use and presence of lead in our homes, products, and building materials. Unfortunately, lead still lingers in the places and products that surround us, causing severe health problems that may effect our brains, reproductive systems, and other organs, as well as harming the development of our children.
The federal government has outlawed the use of lead in products such as paint, pipes, and other building materials, enforcing strict regulations with regard to lead. However, the regulations restricting the use of lead-based products were not implemented until 1978, which means that many of our homes may still contain the toxic substance below layers of lead-free paint. State regulations to prevent lead exposure in commercial and residential environments accompany federal regulations. Unfortunately, many builders and property owners refuse to abide by these regulations, leading to devastating consequences for innocent victims. In addition, many products that are manufactured outside of the United States are not subject to the stringent guidelines that U.S. manufacturers must abide by. As a result, some of the products that are imported into our country may represent serious potential hazards to unsuspecting consumers.
At Cohen & Riechelson, our personal injury attorneys have served as aggressive advocates for victims of lead poisoning in Pennsylvania for over 40 years. If you or someone you love has suffered health problems as a result of toxic lead exposure, you may have grounds to pursue a claim against a property owner or manufacturer, depending on the circumstances of your case. Our investigations are aimed at gathering and leveraging all available evidence to support your claim for compensation. To learn more about the legal avenues that may be available to you, contact our Bucks County offices anytime at (215) 337-4915. Consultations are always provided free of charge and we are happy to answer all of your questions.
Sources of Lead Poisoning and Toxic Lead Exposure in Pennsylvania
According to data provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, lead is often found in the following:
- Older homes and buildings:
- 87% of homes built prior to 1940 may have lead present
- 69% of homes built between 1940 and 1959 may have lead present
- 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1977 may have lead present
- Paint: including flakes, dust, or fumes produced as a result of improper lead paint removal, renovations, or other disruptions to the environment or lead-paint covered surfaces
- Older pipes
- Soil deposits, yards, and playgrounds (may result from gasoline tanks)
- Consumer products, including older products and defective newer products
- Mines, refineries, and related industries, as well as their surrounding environments
Results of Lead Poisoning and Toxic Lead Exposure in Pennsylvania
The results of lead poisoning and toxic lead exposure can be devastating, particularly among the most vulnerable and frequent victims: young children, who may exhibit any of the following:
- Cognitive and developmental disabilities
- Behavioral problems and hyperactivity
- Stunted growth
- Hearing Problems
- Anemia
Pregnant women who are exposed to lead may also transmit toxic amounts to their unborn children, which may result in:
- Reduced growth of fetuses
- Premature birth
Lead poisoning in adults may manifest in a variety of health consequences, some of which include:
- Brain swelling and brain damage
- Difficulties with memory
- Cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure and hypertension
- Decreased kidney function
- Reproductive problems
- Damage to other organs
- Joint pain
In the most tragic of cases, ingestion of lead can result in seizures, coma and even death. The families of those who have died due to lead poisoning can seek justice through a wrongful death lawsuit. Other surviving victims of toxic lead exposure can pursue compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, costs of relocation, and pain and suffering through personal injury litigation.
Contact our Bucks County PA Lead Poisoning Lawyers for Immediate Assistance
For a cost-free consultation with a highly knowledgeable personal injury attorney, contact the Bucks County law offices of Cohen & Riechelson today at (215) 337-4915. A member of our seasoned personal injury team is standing by to assist you.