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Paraquat Lawsuit Update 2023 | Paraquat Parkinson's Lawsuit Settlement Amounts

Key takeaways:

  • Paraquat, a widely-used herbicide, has been linked to Parkinson's disease, leading to numerous lawsuits against its manufacturers.

  • The EPA has restricted the use of Paraquat due to its toxicity, and it's banned in over 30 countries.

  • TorHoerman Law is representing individuals who believe they developed Parkinson's disease due to Paraquat exposure and are seeking compensation.

Most Recent Updates:

  • The Paraquat Litigation is actively proceeding with over 5,000 cases filed and 241 new cases added within the last month.

  • It is part of a Multi-District Litigation (MDL) in the U.S., a legal framework used to manage numerous related lawsuits by consolidating them in one court for the pretrial phase, aimed at increasing efficiency and consistency.

  • Individuals who have been exposed to Paraquat and developed Parkinson’s Disease or similar health issues are encouraged to seek legal advice, and our law firm offers free consultations to assess potential eligibility.

TorHoerman Law - Your Paraquat Lawsuit Attorneys

Paraquat, one of the most widely used herbicides in the United States, has been linked to serious health risks. Prolonged exposure to Paraquat Dichloride has been linked to Parkinson’s Disease and other serious health impacts.

Paraquat lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers of the herbicide for failing to warn about the risks of chronic exposure.

If you or a loved one were exposed to Paraquat and subsequently diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease or other related health conditions, you may be eligible to file a Paraquat Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and talk to a Paraquat Lawyer about filing a lawsuit.

Want to find out if you qualify for the Paraquat Lawsuit right away? Use our chatbot on this page to receive a free instant online case evaluation right now.

Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Our Paraquat Lawyers are here to help you secure compensation for your Paraquat Exposure Lawsuit.

Table of Contents
Paraquat Lawsuit Update, Paraquat Parkinson's Disease Lawsuit, Paraquat Parkinson's Lawsuit

Lawsuit Updates

March 1, 2024

The Paraquat Lawsuit is ongoing. 

241 new cases were added to the Paraquat MDL in the month of February, according to the most recent JPML filings.

On February 1st, the Judicial Panel for Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) reported that there were 5,077 Paraquat Lawsuits pending in the MDL.

On March 1st, the JPML reported 5,318 Paraquat Lawsuits pending in the MDL.

The Paraquat Lawsuit addresses the growing concern about the potential harmful effects of the herbicide, which is linked to Parkinson’s disease.

Paraquat is a toxic chemical that has a lethal dose of only 2.5 grams, and increases risk for kidney failure, heart failure, liver failure, and lung scarring.

Individuals who were exposed to Paraquat and developed Parkinson’s Disease are taking action against manufacturers.

The companies, Syngenta, Chevron, and Growmark, are accused of negligence and breaching their duty to warn consumers about the herbicide’s potential risks and side effects.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after exposure to Paraquat, you may be eligible to participate in the Paraquat Lawsuit.For more information and a free consultation, contact TorHoerman Law. 

You can also use the chatbot on this page for immediate assistance and to find out if you qualify for this lawsuit. 

March 1, 2024

Paraquat Exposure Lawsuits Filed into Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)

Individuals who have been exposed to the chemical Paraquat through their profession or due to their proximity to agricultural areas may be at a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, especially if they are exposed over long periods of time.

Paraquat Parkinson's Lawsuit

If you have been exposed to Paraquat and were subsequently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you may be entitled to compensation for the losses that you incurred from your injuries.

Contact TorHoerman Law to speak with our Paraquat Lawyers and to get a free consultation. TorHoerman Law’s Paraquat Lawyers are currently presiding in leadership roles for the Paraquat Litigation.

Paraquat Lawsuit Settlements

It’s important to remember that Paraquat settlements are dealt with on a case-by-case basis in the Paraquat MDL.

Unlike class action lawsuits, where a settlement is divided equally between all plaintiffs, the Paraquat MDL settles each case based on its own facts in relation to bellwether trials and other procedures in the litigation.

Our lawyers estimate that Paraquat settlements could be between $20,000 to $1 million per client.

Paraquat Lawsuit Settlements

These settlement figures are by no means a guarantee of financial compensation.

They are only an estimation based on previous toxic chemical lawsuits and serve as an estimation for Paraquat plaintiffs.

Paraquat bellwether trial cases are set for July 2023, and then we will have a better idea of the average Paraquat settlement amounts.

Visit this page for more updates on the Paraquat settlement as they become available.

What is Paraquat?

Paraquat dichloride (paraquat) is a toxic chemical agent most commonly used as an herbicide.

Although it was first produced more than 130 years ago, its application as an herbicide did not become popularized until the mid-20th century.

Paraquat is now used as an herbicide agent on a range of more than 100 different types of crops.

Paraquat is widely used as an herbicide (plant killer), primarily for weed and grass control.

In the United States, Paraquat is available in various strengths and most widely sold in its liquid form.

What Is Paraquat

Is Paraquat Safe?

According to the American Council on Science and Health, Paraquat’s relative toxicity of glyphosate, another popularly used herbicide known to be toxic, ranges from 33-250.

A lethal dose for an average person is around 2.5 grams, and it is even more toxic when inhaled.

Paraquat poisoning is also possible from skin exposure.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Paraquat causes direct damage when it comes in contact with the lining of the mouth, stomach, or intestines.

After Paraquat enters the body, it is distributed to all areas of the body and causes toxic chemical reactions to occur in primarily the lungs, liver, and kidneys.

Paraquat’s toxicity has made it a traditionally popular agent for suicide because it can kill a person with a single sip.

Paraquat exposure has also been linked to adverse health effects, including Parkinson’s disease.

Several countries, including the entirety of the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom, ban Paraquat for use in agriculture, citing the risks of chronic exposure to the herbicide.

What Health Risks are Linked to Paraquat Exposure?

What Health Risks Are Linked To Paraquat Exposure

Paraquat exposure has been found to increase the risk for several health problems, including the following:

  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Kidney failure
  • Heart failure
  • Liver failure
  • Lung scarring

Paraquat Poisoning Symptoms and Side Effects

Ingesting or inhaling Paraquat can cause Paraquat poisoning.

Symptoms of Paraquat poisoning are sometimes severe and often hard to ignore.

Paraquat Poisoning Symptoms And Side Effects

Paraquat poisoning symptoms and side effects include:

  • Tongue sores and mouth ulcers
  • Pain in the mouth and throat
  • Bleeding in the mouth and throat
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach pain and cramping
  • Blood clots
  • Cell death
  • Tissue death
  • Lung cysts
  • Lung collapse
  • Dehydration
  • Mineral salt imbalance
  • Low blood pressure
  • Fast heart rate
  • Trouble breathing
  • Muscle weakness
  • Confusion
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Other health problems

Paraquat Linked to Parkinson’s Disease

Researchers have attributed exposure to paraquat to the increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

In February 2011, the National Institute of Health (NIH) conducted a study – the Farming and Movement Evaluation (FAME) – exploring claims that exposure to the popular herbicide Paraquat could be linked to a greater risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

Following the study’s release, Syngenta, a Swiss herbicide manufacturer, claimed on its website that data from the study showed that farmers who use Paraquat are less likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than the general population.

This claim was highly debated by the study’s authors, who attested that the data from the study showed that individuals were roughly two and a half times more likely to develop Parkinson’s after being exposed to Paraquat (or a similar herbicide – Rotenone).

Paraquat Linked To Parkinson’s Disease

FAME Study Finds Paraquat Parkinson’s Disease Risk

FAME drew data from the Agricultural Health Study, a larger project that tracked more than 80,000 farmers, agricultural workers, and their spouses.

FAME researchers identified 115 individuals who had developed Parkinson’s, studying 110 of these individuals who were open to providing information on the herbicide they frequently used.

Syngenta held the findings in contention, arguing that because only 115 individuals developed Parkinson’s out of more than 80,000 North Carolinians and Iowans included in the Agricultural Health Study, direct correlation between Paraquat and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s could not be proven.

“The incidence of Parkinson’s disease [in the study] appears to be lower than in the general U.S. population,” explained Syngenta, trying to rationalize their website’s claim.

Dr. Caroline M. Tanner, the director of the Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education and Clinical Centers at the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the lead author of the FAME study explained that Syngenta’s argument held no basis.

Tanner argued that FAME was not a comprehensive assessment of the incident Parkinson’s among all 80,000 individuals.

Rather, the study chose a group of people who did have Parkinson’s – studying that specific group against a control group.

In actuality, FAME relied on self-reporting from participants of the larger Agricultural Health Study.

“There were probably quite a few people with Parkinson’s disease who did not enroll in our study,” explained Dr. Freya Kamel, a scientist at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, a branch of the National Institutes of Health and a co-author of the FAME study.

Syngenta said it “went to significant lengths to attempt to access the data” from the FAME study so that the manufacturer could “gain as complete an understanding as possible of the study in the pursuit of scientific rigor.”

Kamel called Syngenta’s analysis inappropriate.

Kamel found the FAME study data linking Paraquat to Parkinson’s “about as persuasive as these things can get.”

A similar study conducted in 2012 – the Genetic Modification of the Association of Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease – found that individuals who used Paraquat and who also had a specific genetic variation were 11 times more likely to develop Parkinson’s, indicating that some people are put at greater risk by being exposed to the chemical.

New Research on Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease Backs FAME Findings

A December 2016 study published in Nature Chemical Biology reassures researchers who believe Paraquat to cause Parkinson’s Disease.

A CRISPR screen, an investigation into the possible agents that increase the risk of Parkinson’s for individuals exposed to Paraquat, identified a pathway required for Paraquat-induced cell death in humans.

The study found that after being exposed to Paraquat, genes that may lead to Parkinson’s disease were identified using an innovative gene-editing technique.

Further, the study found that Paraquat kills cells through a mechanism called oxidative stress.

The study was unable to reveal the exact process that allowed the herbicide to do so, though the researchers presented multiple theories.

Paraquat Banned Across The Globe

Around the world, Paraquat is banned in 32 countries.

Notably, although Paraquat is produced by Swiss manufacturer Syngenta, use of the herbicide has been banned in Switzerland since 1989.

Paraquat has been on the banned substances list in England and throughout the European Union since 2013 yet one of Syngenta’s largest Paraquat manufacturing facilities is located in Northern England, but most of the yield is sent to the United States.

China also produces Paraquat.

Although it is known for being an industrial nation with lax environmental regulations, China announced in 2012 that it would begin to phase out Paraquat to “safeguard people’s lives”.

All production of Paraquat is now exported.

Many other nations are now following suit and venturing away from the herbicide, citing research that links the chemical to health risks.

Increased Paraquat Use In The United States

In recent years, Paraquat has become a popular alternative to Monsanto’s Roundup in the United States.

Roundup has long been the preferred herbicidal agent for American agricultural workers, but as weeds and pests are becoming more resistant to it, and lawsuits alleging dangers and injuries arise, farmers are turning to alternative herbicides and pesticides to treat their crops.

Paraquat has become the preferred herbicidal alternative, in light of the issues surrounding Roundup, especially for soybean fields, where the number of pounds used is up fourfold over the last 10 years.

In 2016 alone, the United States sprayed 7 million lbs. of Paraquat over nearly 15 million acres of land.

However, it is important to note that all Paraquat products are Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs), meaning only licensed applicators are able to purchase and use the herbicide.

All applicators must be “licensed in accordance with EPA regulations and state, territorial and tribal laws.”

EPA Regulatory Filing On Paraquat, Finalizes New Safety Measures for Paraquat

In March 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced in a regulatory filing that they would be further exploring the possible health risks associated with Paraquat.

The filing is part of a program, sponsored by the EPA, that re-evaluates all pesticides on a 15-year cycle.

In the announcement, the agency said, “There is a large body of epidemiology data on paraquat dichloride use and Parkinson’s disease.”

EPA Regulatory Filing On Paraquat, Finalizes New Safety Measures For Paraquat

In August 2021, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized new safety measures for Paraquat use in the United States.

The EPA did not outright ban Paraquat, but outlined the mitigation measures listed below:

  • Limiting aerial applications and requiring residential buffers.
  • Prohibiting pressurized handgun and backpack sprayer applications.
  • Requiring enclosed cabs or respirators for groundboom applications.
  • Increasing the Restricted Entry Interval (REI) for several crops.

About Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements like shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.

About Parkinson's Disease

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease develop and worsen over time.

Those dealing with Parkinson’s Disease may have difficulty talking and walking, and subsequently suffer mental and behavioral changes, sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and other serious side effects.

Do You Qualify for a Paraquat Parkinson's Disease Lawsuit?

If you have previously been exposed to Paraquat — or similar herbicide Rotenone — and subsequently developed Parkinson’s disease or signs of ongoing developing Parkinson’s, you may qualify to participate in the Paraquat lawsuit.

Contact a Paraquat Lawyer from TorHoerman Law for a free consultation, or use the chatbot on this page to see if you qualify for a Paraquat Lawsuit instantly.

Do You Qualify for a Paraquat Parkinson's Disease Lawsuit?

Our Paraquat Lawyers are experts in understanding the legal process for Paraquat Lawsuits and will work tirelessly to secure the financial compensation you deserve.

Gathering Evidence for Paraquat Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuits

Your first steps in filing a Paraquat Exposure Lawsuit should include gathering evidence. Paraquat attorneys can help you gather any evidence you’re having trouble securing.

Gathering Evidence For AFFF Lawsuits

Evidence in a Paraquat lawsuit may include:

  • Medical records
  • Medical bills
  • Employment records
  • Proof that you were exposed to Paraquat
  • Residential documents outlining your proximity to Paraquat usage
  • Receipts of purchase for Paraquat
  • Other proof of damages

Assessing Damages in Paraquat Lawsuits

An experienced attorney will help you to assess your damages.

Damages include any losses incurred as a result of your injury/diagnosis.

Assessing Damages In Paraquat Lawsuits

In a Paraquat Parkinson’s Lawsuit, potential damages may include:

  • Medical bills
  • Future medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Lost earning capability
  • Lost quality of life
  • Permanent disability
  • Other compensatory and punitive damages

Helpful Resources For Parkinson's Disease Patients

You are not alone.

There are resources and support groups available for people suffering from the effects of Parkinson’s Disease.

Helpful Resources For Parkinson's Disease Patients

Help, support, and advice for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease are only a click away:

TorHoerman Law - Experienced Paraquat Attorneys

TorHoerman Law has secured over $4 billion in compensation for people harmed at no fault of their own – and we’re prepared to help you.

Our experienced chemical exposure legal team can help you assess your case and your best plan of action.

The Paraquat Lawyers at TorHoerman Law work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that we do not charge for legal services unless compensation is won for our clients.

If you or a loved one have suffered from Paraquat exposure and subsequently developed Parkinson’s Disease or other serious health conditions, you may be eligible to file a Paraquat Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for a Paraquat Lawsuit instantly.

We are here to help!

TorHoerman Law: Your Paraquat Attorney.

Paraquat lawyers

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Am I eligible for a paraquat lawsuit?

    If you or a loved one was exposed to paraquat and were subsequently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you may be eligible to file a paraquat lawsuit.

  • Who uses paraquat?

    Paraquat is primarily used in the agricultural industry.

    It remains one of the most popular herbicide treatments in the United States and is often applied to crops in no-till farming.

    Paraquat is used by farmers and herbicide applicators.

  • Is Paraquat banned?

    The EPA banned paraquat use in residential areas.

    However, paraquat use is still permitted in agricultural areas and in rural communities across the United States.

    Despite its use being permitted in the United States, paraquat is banned in more than 30 countries, including China.

  • Does paraquat cause Parkinson's disease?

    Yes.

    Multiple studies have linked paraquat to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, especially for individuals with predisposed medical conditions & individuals who experience long-term exposure to the herbicide.

  • Does Roundup contain paraquat?

    No. Roundup does not contain paraquat.

    Paraquat is a different type of agricultural herbicide than Roundup.

    Agricultural workers may use both Roundup and Paraquat.

    As weeds become more resistant to Roundup, many farmers are turning to paraquat as a primary herbicidal treatment for their crops.

  • Who are the Paraquat Defendants?

    The companies being named in the Paraquat Exposure Lawsuit include:

    • Syngenta
    • Gramoxone (brand name for Paraquat created by Syngenta)
    • Chevron Phillips Chemical Company
    • Growmark

  • What is the Paraquat Class Action Lawsuit?

    Many law firms are referring to the Paraquat Lawsuits and the Paraquat MDL as the “Paraquat Class Action Lawsuit” or the “Paraquat Class Action Litigation”.

    Paraquat plaintiffs must understand that the Paraquat Lawsuit is NOT a class action.

    Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) is a special federal legal procedure designed to speed the process of handling complex litigations by consolidating cases and addressing all pretrial procedures in one court.

    When a large number of people who have all been affected by the same thing file individual lawsuits, the federal court system allows for the consolidation of these cases into an MDL to make them easier to manage.

    MDLs take cases from multiple federal districts (each state has at least one district), and puts them into one district court.

    This single district court, and one judge, then address all the discovery and pretrial procedures that apply to every case – cutting the costs and amount of resources needed, and keeping court rulings consistent with similar cases.

Written By:
Tor Hoerman

Tor Hoerman

Owner & Attorney - TorHoerman Law

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