Over the past few years, hundreds of injured plaintiffs—including farmers, agricultural workers, and landowners—have filed lawsuits throughout the U.S. alleging that long-term exposure to the common and popular herbicide Paraquat leads to Parkinson’s disease. These plaintiffs allege that, for years, manufacturers were aware of the serious health risks Paraquat posed. What options do injured plaintiffs have—and how can you join the Paraquat Parkinson’s lawsuit?

Paraquat has been widely used for over 50 years as an effective killer of broad-leaf and glyphosate-resistant weeds. Paraquat kills plants by creating oxidative stress, which causes severe cell damage that quickly leads them to shrivel and die. Unfortunately, oxidative stress in humans can cause permanent neurological problems, including Parkinson’s disease. 

Over the last decade, in large part due to increasing concerns about the causal link between Paraquat and Parkinson’s, the EPA has restricted its use for commercial application only. This hasn’t necessarily limited Paraquat exposure to those who work in industries where herbicides are widely used, and unfortunately, long-term or occupational Paraquat exposure has been shown to increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s. Some of the industries and jobs in which Paraquat exposure is common include: 

  • Agricultural workers
  • Herbicide sprayers
  • Chemical mixers
  • Crop dusters
  • Landscapers
  • Farm worker
  • Commercial Farmers
Man of Tractor Spraying Herbicide Paraquat

If you’ve spent much time working in one or more of these jobs, you may have a higher than average risk of having been exposed to Paraquat—and, therefore, a higher than average risk of developing Paraquat-related Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative brain disorder that interferes with the central nervous system (CNS)’s ability to control nerves throughout the body. This can lead to progressive symptoms like slowed movement, slurred speech, balance or inner ear problems, tremors, muscle spasms, and poor posture. Over time, these symptoms may begin to interfere with one’s ability to perform activities of daily living, including feeding, dressing oneself, and taking care of hygiene needs. As symptoms worsen one’s enjoyment of life is also severely impacted.

How Paraquat is Used?

Paraquat is most commonly used in agricultural settings for commercial farming on soybeans, corn, and cotton crops, all of which can be vulnerable to invasive weeds. It’s sprayed directly onto the field and allowed to dry; within a few days, the weeds that have been sprayed will die.

Paraquat is often sold under brand names like Gramoxone, Parazone, Para-Shot, and Quick-Quat. Generally speaking, any herbicidal product that contains the terms “Para” or “Quat” in its name likely has Paraquat as a main ingredient.

Joining the Paraquat Parkinson’s Lawsuit

More than 500 plaintiffs throughout the U.S. who have suffered physical and neurological problems stemming from the dangers of Paraquat exposure have sought to hold manufacturers and retailers liable for selling a dangerous product. And indeed, those who used or were exposed to Paraquat and later developed Parkinson’s may be entitled to financial compensation for their injuries. 

Instead of allowing every Paraquat-affected plaintiff to file an individual lawsuit against the parties responsible, federal district courts have consolidated cases into Paraquat class action multi-district litigation (MDL)—which means that all Paraquat lawsuits that are currently pending in federal court will be consolidated under a single judge. Currently, a Paraquat trial is scheduled to take place in November 2022, though this is subject to change. 

To bring a Paraquat Parkinson’s lawsuit, you’ll need to contact an experienced attorney—like the ones at Ferraro Law Firm. Our legal team has extensive experience in handling class action toxic tort litigation, and we can help you fight for your rights and for the compensation you deserve.