Chemical exposure can result in serious illness or even death. Over the past few years, researchers with the International Agency for the Research of Cancer have been studying the effects that Benzene has on humans. According to a recent news report, the agency’s conclusions regarding the carcinogenic properties of the chemical were grossly understated, and the chemical may present a much higher risk of cancer than originally thought. Such exposure may be the basis for an Alabama wrongful death or personal injury lawsuit.Benzene is a colorless or light-yellow liquid that is frequently used in manufacturing a wide range of products across the United States. For example, benzene is routinely used in the manufacture of plastics, nylons, resins, and synthetic fibers. It is also used to create certain lubricants, rubbers, dyes, detergents, and pesticides. Despite the dangers of benzene, it is listed as one of the top 20 most commonly used chemicals in the United States.
The Risks that Benzene Presents
According to the Center for Disease Control, those most in danger of experiencing the effects of benzene are those who work in the manufacturing industry, especially those who use the solvents containing the chemical. However, benzene is also found in car exhaust, tobacco smoke, and industrial emissions. Thus, people who spend large amounts of time in and around gas stations likely have more exposure to benzene. People have also suffered benzene exposure when it has leaked from underground storage tanks and contaminated well-water supplies.
When exposed to benzene, some may develop bone-marrow conditions, resulting in low production of red blood cells. This can lead to anemia and excessive bleeding. Benzene also can have adverse effects on the immune system, resulting in a heightened risk of infection. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, benzene exposure can also cause cancer.
Symptoms of Benzene Exposure
Aside from the above serious health conditions, benzene exposure can result in some immediate side effects occurring just minutes or hours after exposure, including drowsiness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, tremors, confusion, sleepiness, vomiting, and even death if the level of exposure is high enough.
Legal Recourse for Benzene Exposure
Depending on how a person came to be exposed to benzene, they may have a claim for damages through an Alabama personal injury lawsuit. However, due to the strict statute of limitations governing these claims, anyone who believes they have suffered a serious illness due to benzene exposure should immediately reach out to a dedicated Alabama personal injury attorney.
Are You in Need of an Alabama Injury Lawyer?
If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a serious illness that may have been due to exposure to benzene or another harmful chemical, you may be entitled to monetary compensation through an Alabama product liability lawsuit. Attorney Greg Reeves has decades of litigation experience and a thorough understanding of substantive Alabama personal injury law that he has developed throughout his career. He provides Alabama accident victims with a free consultation to discuss their cases, at which he will answer any questions your family and you may have. To learn more, and to schedule your free consultation, call 256-355-3311 today.