Every year large numbers of people are killed, injured, and suffer the consequences of long-term exposure to biological hazards and unsafe chemicals. Chemicals and other technologies are the foundation of our modern society. They are an integral and ever-increasing part of our complex technological world. But their use or exposure can have dire biological consequences. Many of the dangers are not known or understood by the public in general and, in some cases, have allegedly been intentionally suppressed by those protecting their own economic interest. Between the years 1988 through 1992, six percent, or 2,070, of the 34,500 accidents that occurred resulted in immediate death, injury and/or evacuation; an average of two chemical-related injuries occurred every day during those five years. During the years 1987 through 1991, chemical accidents resulted in 453 deaths and 1,576 injuries at fixed facilities, while transportation accidents involving chemicals claimed 55 lives and injured 1,252 persons (US EPA 1993). If you believe that you or a family member have been injured or exposed to a toxic chemical or biological hazard get immediate medical attention and obtain prompt legal advice. Follow the directions in our accident guide, contact the appropriate authorities, and call Larry King or other qualified attorney to evaluate your claim.

Legal claims involving toxic accidents may involve complex legal, medical and technical issues. The following are a few important legal, factual and evidentiary matters that should be considered when evaluating a claim

• When, where, and how did the toxic exposure occur?

• Was the exposure a recent occurrence?

• Did the accident occur at home, at work, at a business, at a public place, or while traveling?

• Was the exposure from a known product?

• Were there any warnings or instructions regarding the use of the product?

• Was the exposure by physical contact, breathing, or swallowing?

• Was the exposure cause by a limited contact to a known product?

• Was the exposure from a prolonged contact with a known product?

• Did the exposure involve an unknown environmental condition?

• Was the exposure investigated by a governmental agency?

• Was medical treatment received?

• What are the nature and extent of any injuries?

• Did the exposure involve a large population in a limited location?

• Did the exposure involve a population in a broad geographic area?

• Was the exposure limited to a specific group of people?

• Was the exposure a known hazard of a particular industry or job?

It is important that the accident be evaluated by an experienced legal team. Complex legal and safety issues may be involved. If you, a friend, or loved one are injured by a toxic exposure, you should take immediate steps to protect their interest. Do not compromise your rights by making statements to the press, insurance investigators, potential defendants, or their representatives.  Consider the suggestions in our accident guide, and call us immediately. We are here to help. At Larry King, P.C., we recognize the unique issues pertaining to accidents. You can call us at (757) 595-8100 seven days a week, 24 hours a day, everyday of the year. We also offer a free legal-infoline service, and you can now contact us on this web site by using our Personal Injury Contact form. We are committed to doing the extra things it takes to help our clients. If you would like to know more, make a selection from the above box.