Benzene Exposure Lawsuits

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Benzene is a chemical derived from petroleum and coal and found in gasoline and other fuels. It is also one of the most commonly used chemicals in the manufacturing of pesticides, plastics, and other substances, as well as for a number of industrial purposes. Although widely used, Benzene is a hazardous chemical that has been classified as a known carcinogen.

Benzene exposure, particularly in the workplace, has been linked to the development of debilitating and fatal conditions, including leukemia. Short-term exposure to high levels of the chemical can also cause dizziness, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and death.

At Kalfus & Nachman PC, our Norfolk personal injury attorneys represent victims who have suffered injury and illnesses due to benzene exposure in the workplace or other settings, as well as families who have lost loved ones as a result of fatal conditions brought about by short- or long-term exposure to benzene. If you have questions about your rights and whether you may have grounds to pursue a benzene exposure lawsuit, our team is readily available to help.

Discuss your case and rights during a FREE consultation. Call (855) 880-8163.

Benzene Exposure, Cancer & Other Diseases

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services first classified benzene as a carcinogen, or cancer-causing substance, in 1980. Over the years, studies have indicated that benzene exposure – ranging from under 5 years to over 30 years – substantially increases risks of developing leukemia and other diseases. Even relatively short-term exposure (around 1 year) can result in conditions involving blood production and bone marrow, such as anemia, excessive bleeding, and immune system deficiencies.

Diseases associated with benzene exposure include:

• Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
• Aplastic Anemia
• Myelodysplasias

Who’s at Risk?

Because benzene is widely used for industrial and manufacturing purposes, workers in these environments face the greatest risks of developing serious and potentially fatal diseases. Workers in industrial settings are also susceptible to exposure in multiple ways, including skin or eye contact, ingestion, and inhalation.

Workers most at risk for benzene exposure include:

• Workers involved in the oil and gas industry, including plant and refinery workers, barge workers, and more
• General industrial workers, including mechanics and machinists
• Workers in the rubber or printing industry
• Commercial vehicle drivers who transport gas, oil, or other chemicals
• Chemical workers and manufacturers, including lab technicians

Your Rights as a Victim

Victims who have developed serious and life-threatening diseases after being exposed to benzene in the workplace, in addition to families who have lost loved ones due to benzene exposure, may have the right to seek compensation for their damages by pursuing civil legal actions known as toxic torts. These lawsuits enable victims and families to hold at-fault parties liable for serious diseases resulting from dangerous levels of exposure.

Depending on the nature of exposure, the path to financial recovery may vary. Victims’ claims against negligent manufacturers, employers, contractors, or premises owners may be based on product liability or premises liability laws. Additionally, workers in certain industries, including the offshore or railroad industry, may need to pursue action through other avenues and laws, such as the Jones Act or FELA claims.

Learn More About Your Rights & How We Can Help

Kalfus & Nachman PC has been recognized for leveraging our experience, insight, and resources for the benefit of injured victims and families across Virginia. If you believe benzene exposure has led to an occupational disease, or was responsible for the wrongful death of your loved one, our legal team is available to discuss your case and rights and whether you may have grounds to pursue legal action. Given the difficult nature of toxic exposure cases and the need for meticulous research and investigation, we encourage victims to reach out to our team as soon as possible.

For a free consultation with a Norfolk personal injury lawyer, contact us 24/7.