Paraquat Litigation: Compensation Rights for Parkinson’s Victims

Paraquat is an herbicide used on farms for many decades. Paraquat litigation continues to progress in both the federal courts and state courts in many jurisdictions across the country. Individuals that suffer from Parkinson’s disease that may have worked with or been exposed to paraquat on farms beginning in the 1960s up until more recently, may have the legal right to compensation.

The federal judge supervising the cases in the federal MDL, or multidistrict litigation, recently entered an opinion dismissing four lead cases. The judge believed that the expert representing the victims did not properly prepare his analysis and report, and thus rejected his opinions. The good news is that the judge is now considering additional cases and will be accepting additional expert reports. What this means is that if you were exposed to paraquat and have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease you can still file a claim, and you still have a right to seek compensation for your injury.

Anyone working on a farm, or as an applicator of paraquat may be at risk for the development of Parkinson’s disease. A single exposure, or exposure at a remote distance from a farm is probably not enough to raise concern about the development of Parkinson’s. However, if you have symptoms that appear to be potentially Parkinson’s disease, you should be evaluated by a qualified neurologist to see if you have that diagnosis. If you believe you were significantly exposed to paraquat at any time in your past, you should seek counsel and assert your claim for compensation.

Paraquat has been banned in dozens of countries around the world. While it is still legal in the United states, and used regularly by farmers, its safety remains in dispute. We remain hopeful that the litigation will lead to compensation for paraquat victims, and eventually to a safer environment for all Americans.