1. What is Paraquat and how is it related to Gramoxone?

Paraquat dichloride is a highly toxic herbicide used to control weeds and grasses. Gramoxone is the primary brand name under which Paraquat is marketed by Syngenta. The terms are often used interchangeably in lawsuits, with Paraquat being the active chemical compound and Gramoxone being the commercial product containing it.

2. How does Paraquat cause Parkinson's disease?

Scientific research indicates Paraquat can cross the blood-brain barrier and damage dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. This damage mirrors the pathology seen in Parkinson's disease, causing oxidative stress and neuron death that leads to the characteristic motor symptoms of the disease [ 3 ].

3. Who is most at risk for Paraquat exposure?

Those at highest risk include farmers, agricultural workers, herbicide applicators, crop dusters, and individuals living in rural communities where Paraquat is regularly used. Studies show even low-level, long-term exposure can significantly increase Parkinson's disease risk by up to 250%.

4. What is the average settlement amount for Paraquat lawsuits?

While many cases are still pending, legal experts estimate settlement values ranging from $100,000 to $3 million per claim depending on severity of illness, age at diagnosis, extent of exposure, and strength of causation evidence. Some early settlements have reportedly reached the higher end of this range for cases with extensive documentation.

5. Can I file a lawsuit if I was exposed to Paraquat but don't have Parkinson's yet?

Generally, you must have a diagnosed injury to file a claim. However, if you have documented Paraquat exposure and are experiencing early symptoms of neurological damage, an attorney can advise on monitoring your condition and preserving your legal rights should you develop Parkinson's disease in the future.

6. How long does a Paraquat lawsuit take?

Most Paraquat lawsuits take between 1-3 years to resolve, though this timeline varies based on case complexity, court backlogs, and whether a settlement is reached before trial. The MDL process currently underway may potentially expedite some cases through coordinated discovery and settlement discussions.

7. Are family members eligible to file if their loved one died from Parkinson's after Paraquat exposure?

Yes, immediate family members can file wrongful death claims if their loved one died from Parkinson's disease linked to Paraquat exposure. These claims must typically be filed within 1-3 years of the death, depending on state law, and can recover compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship.

8. What sets Paraquat lawsuits apart from other herbicide litigation?

Unlike other herbicide lawsuits that focus primarily on cancer risks, Paraquat litigation centers on its established neurological effects, particularly the development of Parkinson's disease. The scientific evidence linking Paraquat and Parkinson's is considered stronger than many other toxic exposure cases, with multiple peer-reviewed studies supporting the connection.

Michigan Paraquat Lawsuit (2025 Update) Get Free Case Review

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If you or a loved one developed Parkinson’s disease after exposure to Paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide used in agriculture, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to Paraquat-related Parkinson’s disease. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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Michigan Paraquat Lawsuit Overview

Paraquat lawsuit class action litigation has emerged as a critical legal battle against agricultural chemical manufacturers.

The Parkinson’s Foundation and the Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council have urged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to revoke Paraquat’s approval due to compelling scientific evidence linking the herbicide to Parkinson’s disease [1].

Thousands of agricultural workers and individuals exposed to this toxic chemical are now seeking justice through legal action.

Latest Paraquat Lawsuit Updates

March 2024 – The Michigan Paraquat lawsuit MDL has seen significant growth, with over 2,000 new cases filed in the first quarter. Settlement discussions are ongoing, focusing on compensation for individuals who developed Parkinson’s disease after Paraquat exposure.
January 2024 – A landmark scientific study published in the Journal of Toxicology further strengthened the connection between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease, providing additional evidence for ongoing litigation.
October 2023 – The EPA faced increased pressure from advocacy groups to ban Paraquat, with multiple states considering additional restrictions on the herbicide’s use.
According to recent research, agricultural workers in Michigan and nationwide face the highest risk of Parkinson’s disease development due to prolonged Paraquat exposure [2].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The EPA and independent research databases have documented critical information about Paraquat:

90% of Paraquat is used in agricultural settings
Agricultural workers show a 250% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease
Over 10 million pounds of Paraquat used annually in the United States
Confirmed neurotoxic effects in multiple scientific studies

Paraquat Injuries & Side Effects

Patients exposed to Paraquat have reported severe neurological complications, with Parkinson’s disease being the most significant long-term health risk.

Parkinson’s Disease: Progressive neurological disorder causing tremors, motor function loss
Neurological Damage: Permanent brain cell destruction in dopamine-producing regions
Motor Function Impairment: Reduced mobility and coordination
Cognitive Decline: Memory loss and potential dementia progression
Psychological Impact: Depression and anxiety related to disease progression

Do You Qualify for a Paraquat Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Paraquat class action lawsuit if:

You worked in agriculture or were exposed to Paraquat between 2000-2023
You have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease
Your exposure occurred in Michigan or other agricultural regions
You can provide documentation of Paraquat exposure
Medical records confirm your Parkinson’s diagnosis

Evidence Required for a Paraquat Lawsuit

Critical evidence for building a strong case includes:

Detailed medical records documenting Parkinson’s diagnosis
Employment records showing agricultural work or Paraquat exposure
Witness statements confirming herbicide usage
Expert medical testimony linking exposure to disease
Chemical exposure documentation
Proof of specific Paraquat product usage

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation in Paraquat lawsuits may include:

Medical treatment costs
Future medical care expenses
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress damages
Potential punitive damages against manufacturers

Paraquat Recall Information

Several Paraquat products have faced significant regulatory scrutiny. While a complete recall has not been implemented, the EPA has imposed strict usage restrictions.

Atrium Pesticides has modified application guidelines, requiring specialized training for licensed applicators.

The EPA continues to review safety protocols, implementing more stringent protective measures to minimize exposure risks for agricultural workers and surrounding communities.

Statute of Limitations for Paraquat Lawsuits

Michigan’s legal framework for Paraquat lawsuits provides a nuanced approach to filing claims .

The statute of limitations for Paraquat lawsuits in Michigan is three years from the date of diagnosis [3].

Courts may apply the “discovery rule,” allowing extensions in cases where the causal relationship was not immediately apparent.

Individual circumstances significantly impact filing windows, making early legal consultation crucial for potential plaintiffs seeking justice.

FAQs

1. What Are the Legal Grounds for a Paraquat Lawsuit?

Legal grounds include product liability, failure to warn, and negligence. Manufacturers can be held responsible for not adequately communicating the known risks associated with Paraquat exposure and its potential link to Parkinson’s disease.

2. How Long Does a Paraquat Lawsuit Take?

Typical Paraquat lawsuits range from 18-36 months. Factors including case complexity, number of plaintiffs, and manufacturer cooperation significantly impact the litigation timeline.

3. What Compensation Can I Expect?

Compensation varies based on individual case severity. Potential recoveries include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential punitive damages against manufacturers.

4. Who Can File a Paraquat Lawsuit?

Agricultural workers, farmers, landscapers, and individuals with documented Paraquat exposure and subsequent Parkinson’s diagnosis may qualify to file a lawsuit.

5. What Evidence Do I Need?

Critical evidence includes medical records, employment history, proof of Paraquat exposure, Parkinson’s diagnosis documentation, and expert medical testimony linking exposure to the disease.

6. Are There Time Limitations for Filing?

Each state has specific filing deadlines. In Michigan, the statute of limitations typically provides a window from diagnosis date, with potential extensions under the discovery rule.

7. Can Family Members File a Claim?

Families may file loss of consortium claims or pursue wrongful death litigation if a loved one has suffered from Paraquat-related Parkinson’s disease.

8. How Much Does Legal Representation Cost?

Most Paraquat attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning no upfront costs. Legal fees are only collected if compensation is successfully recovered.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Get A Free Michigan Paraquat Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Urgent action is critical in Paraquat lawsuit claims. Michigan residents face time-sensitive legal opportunities to seek justice and compensation. Our specialized legal team provides comprehensive support for individuals impacted by Paraquat-related Parkinson’s disease.

Key advantages of immediate action include:

Preservation of critical evidence
Protection of legal rights
Potential for maximum compensation
Expert guidance through complex legal processes

The window for filing Paraquat claims is narrowing. Each day delayed can potentially compromise your ability to seek rightful compensation for your suffering.

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Have you or a loved one been injured or exposed to a toxic chemical at work or in the home that has caused a severe life-threatening side effect, illness, disease, or death?

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Reference:

https://www.parkinson.org/blog/awareness/CSO-update
https://psep.tennessee.edu/paraquat/
https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-600-5805

Michigan Paraquat Lawsuit Attorney