If you have been diagnosed with an occupational disease, contact James F. Humphreys & Associates in Charleston, West Virginia. Our lawyers can help you recover compensation for your illness.
Charleston Office:
United Center, Suite 800
500 Virginia Street East
Charleston, West Virginia 25301
Telephone: (304) 553-0457
Fax: (304) 347-5055
Toll Free: (866) 804-3235
Washington, DC Office:
1200 New Hampshire Ave
Suite 510
Washington, DC 20036
Telephone: (202) 448-9629
Fax: (202) 223-3595
Toll Free: (866) 804-3235
Charleston, West Virginia Occupational Disease Lawyers
Formerly referred to as "industrial diseases," occupational diseases are those illnesses that are caused by exposure to hazardous materials or toxic chemicals at the workplace. While the links between some substances and certain conditions are still being discovered, many occupational diseases (such as silicosis, manganism, and mesothelioma) and their causes are well documented. If you have been diagnosed with an occupational disease, please contact James F. Humphreys & Associates in Washington, DC and Charleston, West Virginia to speak with our lawyers.
Occupational Disease Lawsuits
In the past, some unscrupulous corporations made little effort to protect workers from exposure to substances known to be hazardous. Despite records showing that these companies seemed to be aware of health risks, many chose to ignore the danger signs and continue operations without concern for worker safety. Now former employees who have developed occupational diseases can recover compensation for their illnesses, while financially punishing those who are responsible for their condition. For more information, contact our firm, located in Washington, DC and Charleston, West Virginia, to speak with our lawyers about your case.
Silicosis
Silicosis is an occupational disease caused by exposure to crystalline silica dust. Those who work with or around materials containing silica crystals are the most likely to develop silicosis. Some occupations that put workers into contact with silica dust include sandblasting, mining, and many other industrial positions. Workers with inadequate protective equipment may breathe airborne silica dust, which accumulates over time. The tiny crystals get deep into the alveolar sacs of the lungs, and the lungs cannot get rid of them. Over time, the silica crystals can cause scarring, hardening, and the formation of nodules in the lungs. This causes difficulty breathing, chest pains, and a host of other silicosis symptoms. Silicosis is a debilitating disease that can seriously impact the lifestyle of those afflicted. Don’t let those responsible for your condition get away with compromising your safety and health. Contact our Charleston, West Virginia personal injury lawyers for a review of your case.
Manganism
Manganism is a condition with symptoms remarkably similar to those of Parkinson’s disease. Caused by manganese poisoning, manganism affects workers who are exposed to manganese fumes or dust. Those occupations typically affected by manganism include welders, railroad workers, miners, and steelworkers. When workers have inadequate protective gear or ventilation, they may breathe manganese fumes or dust. This causes a build up of the element in the body, referred to as "manganese toxicity." The toxic levels of manganese begin to poison the body, damaging the nervous system, in particular. The result is permanent impairment, with symptoms including slurred speech, lack of facial expression, and a shuffling gait. If you used to work in one of the occupations listed above and have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, but you are not responding to medications like Levodopa or Sinemet®, you may have manganism. Contact our Charleston, West Virginia personal injury lawyers to find out more.
Hazardous Materials
There are a variety of hazardous materials present in many industrial settings. Exposure to these chemicals and substances can have devastating effects on the health of workers and nearby residents. Corporations are responsible for protecting employees and the general public from personal injury resulting from exposure to hazardous materials. Unfortunately, not all corporations have proven willing to sacrifice profits to increase safety measures. As a result, many unwitting United States workers and residents have suffered prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals and other dangerous substances. The consequences of exposure to some hazardous materials may take years to manifest. Previously exposed workers may develop any number of illnesses, some of which can be fatal. Some of the hazardous materials workers may encounter include:
- Asbestos
- Benzene
- Creosote
- Lead
- MTBE
- PFOA
- Perchlorate
- Benlate
- Manganese
If you or a loved one has been injured by exposure to hazardous materials, contact our personal injury firm in Charleston, West Virginia. Our lawyers will review your case and determine the best course of action to ensure your rights are protected.
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