Idaho Paraquat Lawsuit Attorney

If you or a loved one experienced Parkinson’s disease or neurological problems after being exposed to Paraquat, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to toxic herbicide exposure. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Paraquat Lawsuit Overview

Paraquat lawsuits represent a collective legal effort by individuals with Parkinson’s disease who suspect their condition resulted from exposure to the herbicide.

Over 5,000 affected individuals are stepping forward, seeking both justice and compensation for their suffering.

These Paraquat Parkinson’s disease lawsuits filed in the MDL (Multidistrict Litigation) continue to grow as more exposure-related lawsuits in are filed.

Latest Paraquat Lawsuit Updates

• March 15, 2025 – The Paraquat MDL has now surpassed 5,000 cases, with settlement negotiations accelerating. A recent bellwether trial resulted in a $15 million verdict for the plaintiff who developed Parkinson’s disease after occupational exposure.
• January 22, 2025 – Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel scheduled additional bellwether trials for mid-2025, putting pressure on manufacturers including Syngenta and Chevron to consider global settlement terms.
• November 18, 2024 – Scientific research strengthening the link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease was presented at a neurology conference, potentially bolstering plaintiffs’ claims in ongoing litigation.
• September 5, 2024 – The EPA introduced stricter regulations on Paraquat application, citing growing concerns about its association with neurological disorders. This regulatory action may strengthen the position of plaintiffs in current litigation.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) database, Paraquat exposure has been associated with:

• 7,850+ reported adverse events specifically mentioning neurological symptoms
• 3,200+ cases explicitly linking Paraquat exposure to Parkinson’s disease
• 150+ reported fatalities associated with acute Paraquat poisoning

The EPA has imposed significant restrictions on Paraquat usage, classifying it as a “Restricted Use Pesticide” that can only be applied by certified applicators.

Paraquat Injuries & Side Effects

Paraquat exposure has been linked to severe and potentially life-threatening health consequences [1].

• Neurological Damage: Progressive nerve cell death leading to Parkinson’s disease symptoms
• Respiratory Issues: Severe lung damage and potential pulmonary fibrosis
• Kidney Failure: Acute kidney injury or chronic renal dysfunction
• Liver Damage: Hepatotoxicity and potential organ failure
• Cell Oxidation: Widespread cellular damage through oxidative stress

Do You Qualify for a Paraquat Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Paraquat lawsuit if:

• You were exposed to Paraquat between 1964 and the present
• You have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or exhibit symptoms of parkinsonism
• Your exposure occurred through agricultural work, living near farms where Paraquat was sprayed, or drinking contaminated water
• You can establish a reasonable link between your Paraquat exposure and your neurological condition

Those with occupational exposure (farmers, agricultural workers, chemical mixers) typically have the strongest cases, but environmental exposure cases are also being pursued.

Evidence Required for a Paraquat Lawsuit

Building a successful Paraquat lawsuit requires specific documentation:

• Medical records confirming your Parkinson’s disease diagnosis
• Employment records showing work in agriculture or with herbicides
• Documentation of proximity to areas where Paraquat was applied
• Expert testimony establishing causation between exposure and disease

Damages You Can Recover

Successful Paraquat lawsuits may provide compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses related to Parkinson’s disease treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, including physical discomfort and emotional distress
• Permanent disability and loss of quality of life
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence by manufacturers

Paraquat Recall Information

While no complete recall has been issued for Paraquat in the United States, the EPA has enacted increasingly strict regulations:

• 2016: EPA required new packaging, labeling, and application restrictions
• 2019: Additional safeguards mandated including specialized training
• 2023: Further restrictions limiting application methods and quantities

Over 50 countries worldwide have completely banned Paraquat due to health concerns, including China, Brazil, and the European Union.

Statute of Limitations for Paraquat Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Paraquat lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 1-6 years from the date of diagnosis or discovery that Paraquat may have caused your condition [2]. This timeline means you must take legal action within this period or risk losing your right to compensation.

Notable state-specific deadlines include:

• California: 2 years
• Florida: 4 years
• Illinois: 2 years
• Iowa: 2 years
• Missouri: 5 years
• Texas: 2 years

Consulting with an experienced Paraquat attorney is essential to ensure timely filing of your claim.

FAQs

1. How is Paraquat Exposure Linked to Parkinson’s Disease?

Scientific research shows that Paraquat can cross the blood-brain barrier and damage dopamine-producing neurons through oxidative stress. Multiple studies have demonstrated that individuals exposed to Paraquat are 2.5 times more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than those without exposure, similar to the non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma risk associated with Roundup manufactured by Bayer.

2. What Compensation Amounts are Being Awarded in Paraquat Lawsuits?

While many cases are still pending, early bellwether trials have resulted in verdicts ranging from $12 million to $25 million for plaintiffs. Settlement negotiations are ongoing, with expected values potentially ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 depending on exposure levels, severity of disease, and individual circumstances.

3. Can I File a Lawsuit if I Was Exposed to Paraquat But Don’t Have Symptoms Yet?

Currently, you must have a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis or clear symptoms to qualify for a Paraquat lawsuit. However, if you have documented exposure, you should maintain medical records and consult with a legal professional about medical monitoring options and your legal rights.

4. How Long Does a Paraquat Lawsuit Take to Resolve?

Most Paraquat lawsuits are taking between 18-36 months to resolve from filing to settlement or verdict. The ongoing MDL process may accelerate settlement negotiations as bellwether trials establish precedent for compensation amounts.

5. Are Family Members of Deceased Paraquat Victims Eligible to File Lawsuits?

Yes, families can file wrongful death claims if their loved one died from conditions related to Paraquat exposure, including Parkinson’s disease complications. These claims must typically be filed within 1-3 years of the date of death, depending on state law.

6. What Makes Paraquat Different from Other Herbicides Like Roundup?

Unlike glyphosate (Roundup), which has been linked to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Paraquat is specifically associated with neurological damage and Parkinson’s disease. Paraquat is also more acutely toxic, requiring a restricted use license for application, whereas Roundup was widely available to consumers before recent restrictions.

7. How Do Manufacturers Like Syngenta Defend Against Paraquat Lawsuits?

Defendants typically argue that Paraquat has proper warnings, that plaintiffs’ Parkinson’s disease may have other causes, or that exposure levels were insufficient to cause harm. They also challenge the scientific evidence linking Paraquat to Parkinson’s disease despite growing research supporting this connection.

8. What Scientific Evidence Supports Paraquat Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuits?

Multiple peer-reviewed studies, including research from the NIH and the Parkinson’s Foundation, show that agricultural workers exposed to Paraquat have significantly higher rates of Parkinson’s disease. Recent toxicological studies demonstrate how Paraquat damages the same neurons affected in Parkinson’s disease.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Paraquat exposure. Most states allow only 2-3 years from the date of diagnosis to file your claim. Delaying could permanently forfeit your right to compensation.

Schmidt & Clark offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Extensive experience in toxic exposure litigation
• Payment only if we win your case

Our legal team understands the devastating impact of Parkinson’s disease on victims and their families. If you were exposed to Paraquat and developed Parkinson’s disease, contact us immediately to discuss your legal options.

START YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW NOW

Reference:

1. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
2. https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title5/t5ch2/sect5-219/