Agoura Hills Childhood Lead Poisoning Lawyer
Agoura Hills is one of the newest cities in California, having been established just over 40 years ago in 1982. This means that the city was established four years after the use of lead-based paint in residential homes was banned at the federal level in 1978. Still, this does not mean that there is no presence of lead in Agoura Hills, or that people here do not become ill as a result. Children, in particular, can suffer real harm after being exposed to lead, and exposure can happen through toys, batteries, cosmetics, and jewelry. The damage caused by lead poisoning in children is irreversible. This means that after a child has been exposed, they may permanently suffer from its negative effects. Below, our Agoura Hills childhood lead poisoning lawyer explains in greater detail about the dangers posed and how we can help you make things right.
Why is Lead Exposure So Dangerous for Children?
Although exposure to lead can cause harm to anyone, children are particularly susceptible to its effects. This is largely due to the fact that young children may absorb four to five times more lead than adults from the same ingested dose. Children’s bodies are also still developing, so their blood-brain and detoxification systems are not as effective. This can make them more vulnerable to the toxic effects of lead. Children are also more likely to engage in hand-to-mouth behavior, which can increase the likelihood of their being exposed to lead.
When a child is exposed to lead, especially if it is for a long period of time, they may experience certain symptoms. These include:
- Language and speech delays
- Loss of activity
- Learning difficulties
- Behavioral issues
- Autism
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
One of the biggest concerns of childhood lead exposure is that it can cause a lower IQ. This may impact a child’s entire future.
Who is Responsible for Childhood Lead Poisoning?
If you believe your child has suffered harm due to exposure to lead caused by another person’s negligence, you may be able to file a claim on their behalf with the help of a childhood lead poisoning attorney in Agoura Hills. The first step when filing a claim is to determine who is liable, or at fault, for the lead exposure.
Before accepting a tenant, landlords must provide full disclosure about the presence of lead on a property. When tenants were not informed of the presence of lead, they can file a claim against their landlord under the regulations outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Sellers of residential and commercial real estate also have a legal duty to inform potential buyers of the presence of lead-based paint on a property.
In some instances, manufacturers can also be held liable for childhood lead exposure. Manufacturers must inform consumers when their products, such as toys, contain lead. If they do not provide a warning of the presence and dangers of lead and your child becomes sick as a result, you can hold them liable for paying damages.
Can a Childhood Lead Poisoning Lawyer in Agoura Hills Help?
If your child has suffered harm due to someone else’s carelessness or wrongdoing, our Agoura Hills childhood lead poisoning attorney at Brod Law Firm can help. Our experienced attorney can determine who is to blame for your child’s condition and hold them accountable for paying the full settlement your family deserves. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to request a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.