Hazardous chemicals are a part of everyday life for most people. Caution when using and storing them can usually minimize the risk.
Unfortunately, sometimes chemicals spill or enter the air, exposing people to dangerous substances. Someone exposed could suffer burns, respiratory injuries, neurological problems, and other health impacts.
When you believe you have been exposed to chemicals that have affected your health, contact a Reno chemical burn and fume injury lawyer immediately. The skilled construction accident attorneys at Shook & Stone could explore your legal options and help you obtain appropriate compensation for your injuries.
Exposure to Chemicals Can Cause Severe Health Problems
Hazardous chemicals are present nearly everywhere. People may be exposed to them at home, through well water or even municipal water systems. Many people store potentially dangerous chemicals used for cleaning or lawn care in their garage, basement, or shed. Construction, mining, and agricultural workers often use hazardous substances on the job. Even office workers can be exposed to hazardous chemicals.
Hazardous chemicals are often corrosive and burn the skin. Some substances can be absorbed through the skin and can cause neurological and other health issues. Sometimes, the effects of chemicals can be passed on, causing congenital abnormalities in the children of people exposed.
An attorney from Shook & Stone’s Reno office could investigate the source of the exposure and help you hold the responsible parties accountable. The compensation you might receive depends in part on how you were exposed.
Work-Related Injuries Trigger Worker’s Compensation
Nevada requires employers to participate in the workers’ compensation program. If you are injured while doing your job, workers’ compensation pays for medical care and a partial wage while you are recovering. If the injuries prevent you from returning to work full-time at your previous job, the program provides permanent disability payments.
The exposure does not need to be directly related to your job duties, but you must be on the clock when the injury happens. Your employer will have a list of approved medical providers, and you must receive your medical treatment from a physician or medical practice on their list. However, if the exposure causes a medical emergency, you may be treated at a hospital emergency department.
Sometimes, workers do not know they have been exposed to toxic substances at work, and the health impacts may not manifest for months or years after exposure. In that case, workers can preserve their benefits by informing their employer of their diagnosis as soon as they receive it and having it confirmed by a doctor on the employer’s workers’ compensation list.
Exposure Could Merit a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Many Cases
When someone suffers a chemical burn or fume injury outside their workplace, they could pursue compensation in court. When a worker suffers an injury caused by someone other than a co-worker or their employer, they could bring a personal injury lawsuit against the third party. If you were hurt at work in Reno but believe a third party may be to blame, speak with a Shook & Stone attorney about pursuing a chemical burn or fume injury lawsuit.
You must have evidence that the party you are suing negligently contributed to the release of the chemical. To be negligent means that they did not use appropriate caution and you were injured as a result of their action or inaction.
Nevada Revised Statute § 11.190(4) allows you only two years to file a lawsuit claiming compensation against the negligent party that contributed to your injury. When the injury developed over time or the impact of the exposure was not immediately apparent, the two-year clock begins running on the date you learned or should have learned that the exposure caused an injury.
Get Help After Chemical Injuries From a Reno Attorney
Exposure to dangerous chemicals on the job or elsewhere can have a devastating impact on your health. You will need help to maintain your family’s financial security.
Speak with a Reno chemical burn and fume injury lawyer as soon as possible. They will review your situation and help you pursue the most effective legal strategy. Reach out to a member of our team today for a free consultation.
