Tennessee Paraquat Lawsuit Attorney

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C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt

If you or a loved one developed Parkinson’s disease following exposure to Paraquat (Gramoxone), you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to Paraquat 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, a widely used herbicide in commercial agriculture, has been linked to the development of Parkinson’s disease.

Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers of Paraquat products including Syngenta and Chevron, alleging they failed to provide sufficient warning about the health risks associated with the chemical.

The lawsuits claim these companies knew or should have known about the dangers of Paraquat exposure, particularly for those who faced prolonged exposure working in agricultural settings.

Latest Paraquat Lawsuit Updates

  • March 15, 2025 – The Paraquat MDL has surpassed 5,000 filed cases nationwide, with the majority involving farmers and agricultural workers diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after prolonged exposure.
  • November 15, 2023 – The scheduling of the first trial date was announced for the Paraquat MDL, setting a critical precedent for future case outcomes.
  • August 2023 – The consolidation of several bellwether cases was completed, establishing a framework for evaluating case strength and potential settlement amounts.
  • June 2023 – Court records indicate growing evidence linking Paraquat exposure and increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, as expert testimony that indicates a strong causal relationship was admitted into evidence.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA and EPA records, there have been over 1,200 reported adverse events related to Paraquat exposure, including:

  • 845 reports of neurological symptoms
  • 632 confirmed diagnoses of Parkinson’s disease
  • 158 reports of other serious health complications

The EPA has imposed restricted use regulations, requiring special training and certification for applicators, but these measures have not prevented thousands of cases of Paraquat-related injuries.

Paraquat Injuries & Side Effects

Exposure to Paraquat has been linked to numerous severe health conditions, with Parkinson’s disease being the most prevalent and serious concern [1].

  • Neurological Damage: Progressive loss of motor control and tremors
  • Respiratory Issues: Lung scarring and reduced lung function
  • Kidney Damage: Acute kidney injury and long-term renal impairment
  • Liver Damage: Elevated liver enzymes and potential liver failure
  • Parkinson’s Disease: Progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement

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 are experiencing symptoms consistent with Parkinson’s
  • You worked as a farmer, agricultural worker, herbicide applicator, or lived near areas where Paraquat was sprayed
  • Your exposure to Paraquat occurred through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact
  • You can provide medical documentation linking your Parkinson’s diagnosis to Paraquat exposure

Evidence Required for a Paraquat Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you will need to provide:

  • Medical records confirming your Parkinson’s diagnosis
  • Employment records showing work in agriculture or with herbicides
  • Documentation of Paraquat use in your workplace or residence area
  • Testimony from medical experts linking your condition to Paraquat exposure

Damages You Can Recover

Successful Paraquat lawsuits may result in compensation for:

  • Medical expenses for ongoing treatment and care
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering from physical and emotional distress
  • Decreased quality of life and disability accommodations
  • Punitive damages against manufacturers (in cases of gross negligence)

Paraquat Recall Information

While the EPA has not issued a complete recall of Paraquat, they have implemented significant restrictions on its use:

  • As of 2020, only certified applicators can use Paraquat products
  • New packaging requirements include specialized closed-system containers
  • Enhanced warning labels and mandatory safety training for all users
  • Gramoxone (brand name for Paraquat) has specific handling requirements to minimize exposure risks

Statute of Limitations for Paraquat Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing Paraquat lawsuits in Tennessee is generally one year from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the connection between Paraquat exposure and your condition [2]. However, exceptions may apply in cases involving:

  • Minors or individuals with mental disabilities
  • Recently discovered evidence connecting Paraquat to your illness
  • Continued exposure situations

It is essential to consult with a Tennessee Paraquat lawsuit attorney to determine your case’s specific statute of limitations.

FAQs

1. How does Paraquat exposure compare to other herbicides in terms of health risks?

Paraquat is considered one of the most toxic herbicides, with higher rates of severe health effects compared to many other agricultural chemicals. Its link to Parkinson’s disease is particularly concerning, with numerous studies showing significantly increased risk factors compared to other herbicides.

2. What are the economic impacts of Paraquat-related health issues?

The economic impacts include high medical costs, loss of income, and long-term care expenses. Affected individuals may face significant financial burdens due to health complications, with lifetime care costs for Parkinson’s disease often exceeding $1.2 million per patient.

3. What regulatory measures exist to control Paraquat use?

The EPA has implemented restricted use regulations requiring special training and certification for applicators. These measures aim to minimize exposure risks and enhance safety, though many argue these restrictions came too late to prevent thousands of cases of Paraquat-related injuries.

4. Who are the main parties involved in the Tennessee Paraquat lawsuits?

Syngenta and Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. are the main parties named as defendants in most Paraquat lawsuits. These companies were responsible for the manufacture and distribution of Paraquat products and allegedly failed to properly warn users about the associated risks.

5. Does Paraquat cause Parkinson’s disease?

Numerous studies have established a strong link between Paraquat exposure and an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease [3]. Scientific evidence suggests the herbicide damages dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, similar to the cellular mechanism seen in Parkinson’s disease development.

6. What is involved in the Paraquat MDL process?

The Paraquat MDL (Multidistrict Litigation) consolidates similar cases for more efficient pre-trial proceedings. This process includes discovery phases, bellwether trials to establish precedent, and potential settlement discussions that may influence the outcomes of thousands of cases.

7. How long does it take to settle a Paraquat lawsuit?

Most Paraquat lawsuits are expected to take between 1-3 years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it settles before trial. Bellwether trials currently underway will likely influence settlement timeframes for pending cases.

8. What types of Paraquat exposure are most dangerous?

Direct exposure through handling, mixing, or applying Paraquat presents the highest risk, particularly without proper protective equipment. However, drift exposure affecting nearby residents and contamination of water sources have also been linked to serious health consequences.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Choose our lawyers

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?

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Paraquat-related injuries, with only one year from the date of diagnosis or discovery in Tennessee to file your claim. Don’t delay in seeking the compensation you deserve.

Our services include:

  • Free, confidential consultations
  • No upfront costs or fees
  • Payment only if we win your case
  • Expert guidance through complex litigation
  • Access to medical experts who understand Parkinson’s disease and its connection to Paraquat exposure

The growing body of scientific evidence linking Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease has strengthened these cases, but manufacturers of Paraquat still deny allegations of harm. Our experienced team of attorneys is ready to fight for your rights and help you navigate the complex legal process.

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Reference:

  1. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
  2. https://www.tncourts.gov/sites/default/files/putnamjuliaopn.pdf
  3. https://www.americanscientist.org/article/the-rise-of-parkinsons-disease

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