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Happy Valley Environmental Exposure Injury Lawyer
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Environmental exposure refers to the contact or interaction between individuals or living organisms and elements in their surroundings that may have an impact on their health or well-being. This exposure can occur through various mediums, including air, water, soil, food, and the built environment.
Any harm or adverse health effects that result from prolonged or acute exposure to hazardous substances or conditions in the environment is harmful.
The National Safety Council reported that in 2020, there were 424,360 reported nonfatal injuries and illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances or environments. In 2021, there were 798 reported fatalities attributed to similar circumstances. [1]
Have you or a loved one suffered from environmental injury in Happy Valley, Oregon? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Goldberg & Loren and take the first step toward getting the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Environmental Exposure Injuries
Environmental exposure injuries can result from various sources and circumstances. Some common causes include:
- Industrial Pollution: Emissions from factories, refineries, and industrial facilities can release hazardous chemicals and pollutants into the air, water, and soil, leading to respiratory problems, neurological disorders, and other health issues in nearby communities.
- Water Contamination: Contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage, and industrial waste can contaminate water sources, posing health risks to individuals who consume or come into contact with contaminated water.
- Occupational Hazards: Workers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and mining may be exposed to hazardous substances and conditions in the workplace, leading to injuries, illnesses, and long-term health effects.
- Exposure to Asbestos: Asbestos, commonly found in older buildings and construction materials, poses a significant health risk when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. Prolonged exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases. In 2023, a shelter-in-place was issued in Happy Valley due to a fire that involved asbestos. [2]
- Radon Exposure: Radon, a radioactive gas found in soil and rock, can seep into buildings and accumulate at harmful levels indoors. Prolonged exposure to radon gas increases the risk of lung cancer.
- Lead Poisoning: Exposure to lead-based paint, lead-contaminated soil, or lead pipes can lead to lead poisoning, particularly in children. Lead exposure can cause developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and other health problems.
- Pesticide Exposure: Agricultural workers and individuals living near agricultural areas may be exposed to pesticides used in crop production. Pesticide exposure can lead to acute poisoning, respiratory issues, neurological disorders, and long-term health effects.
- Air Pollution: Vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and biomass burning can release pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide into the air. Inhalation of these pollutants can exacerbate respiratory conditions, increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and impair lung function.
- Food Contamination: Contaminated food products, including those contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical toxins, can cause foodborne illnesses and gastrointestinal disorders.
Common Injuries as a Result of Environmental Exposure
Environmental exposure can lead to a variety of injuries and health conditions. Some common injuries resulting from environmental exposure include:
- Respiratory Disorders: Exposure to air pollution, industrial emissions, allergens, and airborne toxins can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer.
- Skin Irritations and Disorders: Contact with chemicals, toxins, allergens, or contaminated water can cause skin irritations, dermatitis, rashes, burns, and allergic reactions.
- Neurological Disorders: Exposure to neurotoxic substances such as heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury), pesticides, and industrial chemicals can lead to neurological disorders, cognitive impairments, developmental delays, and nerve damage.
- Cancer: Prolonged exposure to carcinogens such as asbestos, radon, benzene, arsenic, and certain industrial chemicals increases the risk of developing various types of cancer, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, leukemia, and skin cancer.
- Lead Poisoning: Ingestion or inhalation of lead particles from sources such as lead-based paint, contaminated soil, water, or dust can lead to lead poisoning. Lead poisoning can cause neurological damage, cognitive impairments, developmental delays, anemia, and kidney damage, particularly in children.
- Reproductive Disorders: Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals, and environmental toxins can disrupt hormonal balance, affect fertility, and lead to reproductive disorders, including infertility, miscarriages, birth defects, and developmental abnormalities in offspring.
- Musculoskeletal Injuries: Accidents, falls, and injuries resulting from environmental hazards such as uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, and debris can cause musculoskeletal injuries such as fractures, sprains, strains, and dislocations.
If you want to seek justice and obtain the compensation you deserve for your environmental injury, our dedicated personal injury lawyers in Happy Valley are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.
Table of Contents
Happy Valley Practice Areas
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Environmental Exposure Injury in Happy Valley?
In Happy Valley, several parties may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Potentially liable parties may include:
- Property Owners: Owners of properties where hazardous substances are stored, used, or disposed of may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries if they fail to take appropriate measures to prevent contamination or adequately warn individuals about potential hazards.
- Manufacturers and Distributors: Companies that manufacture, distribute, or sell products containing hazardous chemicals or substances may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries if they fail to provide adequate warnings, or instructions for safe use, or if the products were defectively designed or manufactured.
- Employers: Employers may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries suffered by their employees if they failed to provide a safe work environment, proper training, personal protective equipment (PPE), or if they knowingly exposed workers to hazardous substances without adequate safeguards.
- Contractors and Subcontractors: Contractors and subcontractors involved in construction, demolition, renovation, or remediation projects may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries if they failed to follow environmental regulations, mishandled hazardous materials, or caused environmental contamination through negligent actions.
- Government Entities: Government agencies responsible for regulating environmental standards, issuing permits, and enforcing environmental laws may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries if they failed to adequately monitor and enforce compliance with environmental regulations, leading to harm to public health or the environment.
- Transportation Companies: Companies involved in the transportation of hazardous materials may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries resulting from accidents, spills, leaks, or improper handling during transit.
- Polluters: Individuals, businesses, or entities that knowingly or negligently pollute or contaminate the environment may be held liable for environmental exposure injuries and may be required to pay for cleanup costs, property damage, and compensation for personal injuries or health problems caused by exposure to hazardous substances.
Determining liability for environmental exposure injuries in Happy Valley requires a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the incident, identification of responsible parties, and evaluation of applicable laws and regulations governing environmental protection and liability.
Statute of Limitations for Environmental Exposure
In Happy Valley, Oregon, the Statute of Limitations for filing a lawsuit related to environmental exposure injuries typically falls under personal injury laws. In Oregon, the Statute of Limitations for personal injury claims in Oregon is generally two years from the date the injury occurred or was discovered. [3]
Environmental exposure cases can be complex, and the discovery of harm may not be immediately apparent. In such cases, Oregon law may provide for a “discovery rule,” allowing the Statute of Limitations to begin when the plaintiff discovers or reasonably should have discovered, the injury and its connection to the environmental exposure.
Consult with our experienced environmental exposure attorney in Happy Valley to better understand the specific time limits applicable to your case and ensure that you take timely legal action to protect your rights.
Benefits of Hiring Our Environmental Exposure Injury Lawyer
Hiring our environmental exposure injury lawyer offers several key benefits:
- Legal Expertise: Goldberg & Loren specializes in environmental exposure cases and has in-depth knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and precedents. We understand the complexities of environmental litigation and can navigate the legal process effectively on your behalf.
- Case Assessment and Strategy: Our lawyer will assess the details of your case, evaluate the extent of environmental exposure, and determine liability. They will develop a strategic plan tailored to your specific situation, outlining the best course of action to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Evidence Collection and Preservation: We will gather and analyze evidence relevant to your case, including medical records, environmental reports, expert testimony, and witness statements. They will ensure that evidence is properly preserved and presented to strengthen your claim.
- Negotiation Skills: Our lawyers will negotiate with insurance companies, responsible parties, and opposing counsel on your behalf to seek a fair settlement. They will advocate for your rights and interests, striving to maximize the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Litigation Experience: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, our lawyer is prepared to litigate your case in court. They have experience representing clients in environmental exposure lawsuits and are skilled trial advocates who will fight for your rights and pursue justice.
- Peace of Mind: By hiring our environmental exposure injury lawyer, you can focus on your recovery and well-being while knowing that your legal rights are being protected. Our lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, providing guidance, support, and representation every step of the way.
- Contingency Fee Arrangement: Our lawyer typically works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they secure compensation for you. This arrangement eliminates upfront costs and financial risks, allowing you to access high-quality legal representation without financial strain.
Hiring our environmental exposure injury lawyer offers you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in your case and obtaining the compensation you need to rebuild your life after suffering harm due to environmental exposure. Contact us today.Â
FAQs
If you believe you have been exposed to harmful substances or conditions in the environment and have suffered injuries as a result, you may have a case for environmental exposure injury.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future medical care.Â
Establishing a clear connection between environmental exposure and resulting injuries often requires gathering medical records, environmental testing data, expert testimony, and other forms of evidence.
Sources:
[1] Exposure to Harmful Substances or Environments – Injury Facts. (2023, January 12). Injury Facts. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/work/safety-topics/exposure-to-harmful-substances-or-environments/
[2] De Dios | Oregonian/OregonLive, A. (2023, September 16). Fiberglass warehouse made with asbestos up in flames in Happy Valley, prompts evacuations and shelter in place. Oregonlive. https://www.oregonlive.com/crime/2023/09/fiberglass-warehouse-made-with-asbestos-up-in-flames-in-happy-valley-prompts-evacuations-and-shelter-in-place.html
[3] Statute of Limitation for Personal Injury. (2023, January 17). Findlaw. Retrieved February 24, 2024, from https://www.findlaw.com/state/oregon-law/oregon-civil-statute-of-limitations-laws.html
We fight hard for our clients who have suffered from environmental exposure injuries in Happy Valley, Oregon. Our personal injury lawyers fight for maximum compensation.
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