Paraquat Lawsuit: Parkinson’s Lawsuit Settlements (April 2025 Update)

Legally Reviewed

Matthew Dolman has written and reviewed this article for legal accuracy and clarity. Matthew has been a licensed attorney for twenty (20) years, has represented over ten thousand clients, and has collected over $250,000,000.00 in compensation for injury victims. Additionally, he has been representing individuals impacted by Paraquat exposure since the beginning of this lawsuit. Matthew is a veteran mass torts lawyer and his firm serves in leadership in various multidistrict litigation. The Dolman Law Group has been directly involved in the Paraquat Parkinson's Disease Lawsuit, and our goal remains to provide the most up-to-date information on this case.

Fact-Checked

Lawsuit Legal News does everything possible to ensure this article's information is up-to-date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Chances are good that Parkinson's disease affects you or someone you know. Some medical conditions involve genetic factors, but scientists have linked many illnesses, like Parkinson's disease, to environmental causes.

Specifically, recent studies have linked Parkinson's disease to chemical exposure. People exposed to Paraquat, a toxic herbicide, are filing paraquat lawsuits claiming their exposure to this chemical caused their Parkinson's disease. 

If you or someone you know were exposed to paraquat herbicide and doctors subsequently reached a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or another serious health complication, contact our Paraquat Parkinson's disease legal team today. You may have legal grounds to bring a paraquat Parkinson's disease lawsuit and request compensation for your related financial losses. Chevron and Syngenta must be liable for Parkinson's disease caused by Paraquat exposure.

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Table Of Contents

Recent Updates April 2025

Bookmark this page to stay up-to-date on all the latest information regarding the Paraquat Lawsuits.

April 1, 2025–Recent Lawsuit Filings (State and Federal) and Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Developments

New Parkinson’s disease lawsuits continue to be filed in federal and state courts. For example, in late March 2025, an Ohio resident filed a paraquat lawsuit directly in the federal multidistrict litigation (MDL), alleging that prolonged exposure to Syngenta’s paraquat herbicide caused her Parkinson’s disease​.

 The complaint raises claims of negligence, strict liability, and failure to warn, seeking damages for permanent neurological injuries​. Similarly, other recent filings include farm workers and family members from agricultural regions who say they were exposed for years without adequate warnings, then diagnosed with Parkinson’s. These filings add to the growing docket of cases at both the federal and state levels.

State Court Filings

Many plaintiffs have also filed in state courts that have consolidated paraquat proceedings. Pennsylvania’s Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, in particular, has seen a surge of cases – as of March 2025, 1,136 paraquat lawsuits are pending in that court alone​. This Philadelphia mass tort program has attracted plaintiffs from around the country, partly due to Pennsylvania’s permissive jurisdictional rules for out-of-state plaintiffs (upheld by a recent court decision)​.

Other states like California have several hundred coordinated cases (roughly 500 in Contra Costa County)​, and additional lawsuits have been filed by individuals in states such as Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Georgia alleging paraquat-related Parkinson’s disease​. These new filings underscore that the litigation is still expanding, even as courts work to manage existing cases.

Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Developments

MDL Consolidation Status: All federally filed paraquat-Parkinson’s cases have been centralized in In re: Paraquat Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 3004) before Chief Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel in the Southern District of Illinois​. This MDL was established in June 2021 and has since grown into one of the largest toxic tort proceedings in the country.

As of April 2025, the MDL includes over 5,800 active lawsuits by farmers, agricultural workers, and others against Syngenta and co-defendant Chevron U.S.A​. The total number of federal cases has fluctuated slightly month-to-month as new suits are added and some are dismissed. After a lull early in the year, 21 new cases were transferred into the MDL in February 2025, bringing the pending case count to approximately 5,859​.

This reversed a brief decline from prior months when non-compliant cases were being removed. The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation’s statistics confirmed the caseload increase (from 5,825 to 5,838 cases between January and February 2025)​. The MDL continues consolidating all federal paraquat Parkinson’s claims for coordinated pretrial proceedings, while parallel state consolidations (like Philadelphia’s) proceed independently​.

Bellwether Trial Selection and Scheduling

A major development in early April 2025 was the progression of the next wave of bellwether cases in the MDL. Judge Rosenstengel has selected six representative lawsuits for case-specific discovery and eventual trials​. According to a recent case management order, these bellwethers are divided into two trial groups:

• Group 1: Three cases set for the first MDL trials on October 15, 2025​.
• Group 2: Three cases set for a second round of trials on April 6, 2026​.

All six cases involve plaintiffs who were licensed applicators or had direct, heavy paraquat exposure (after earlier “drift” exposure cases were set aside)​. Pretrial schedule: Fact discovery for these bellwethers closed on March 21, 2025, and deadlines for dispositive motions and Daubert (expert admissibility) motions are set for August 15, 2025​.

This schedule gives both sides the spring and summer to complete depositions and then brief any summary judgment or expert challenges ahead of the fall 2025 trial date. Identifying specific trial cases and a firm timetable is an important step in the MDL’s progress, as it creates pressure points for potential settlement talks and signals that the court is moving past earlier scientific evidentiary hurdles.

Dismissal of Non-Compliant Cases

The MDL court also continues to “clean house” by weeding out cases that fail to meet court-ordered filing requirements. In late March 2025, Judge Rosenstengel moved to dismiss over 100 lawsuits in the MDL due to plaintiffs’ repeated failure to submit completed Plaintiff Assessment Questionnaires (PAQs) as required​.

These court-mandated questionnaires collect key information on each plaintiff’s paraquat use and medical history. Despite multiple extensions and even third and fourth chances, a group of plaintiffs still had not provided the required exposure evidence, prompting the judge to dismiss their cases without prejudice for non-compliance​.

(The plaintiffs may potentially refile if they cure the deficiencies, but they are dropped from the MDL for now.) This follows the earlier enforcement of Case Management Order 21, which obligates all plaintiffs – even late joiners – to document their paraquat exposure through employment and medical records​. In October 2024, the court identified 586 non-compliant plaintiffs and gave them 21 days to show proof of exposure or face removal​.

The March 2025 dismissals continue that effort. Docket detail: Special Master Randi Ellis has been overseeing compliance; in December 2024, she recommended 47 immediate dismissals for lack of PAQs​, and by March, the tally of enforced dismissals grew to 100+ as additional lagging cases were addressed​.

The MDL leadership generally supports this claim pruning, explaining that removing poorly documented cases strengthens the remaining litigation by improving the overall quality of the plaintiff pool​. The MDL remains “full steam ahead” with discovery and trial prep for plaintiffs who have complied.

Expert Evidence and Appeals

A central issue in this MDL has been the admissibility of expert testimony on general causation (i.e., whether paraquat exposure can cause Parkinson’s disease in general). Last year, Judge Rosenstengel issued a pivotal ruling excluding the plaintiffs’ leading expert on causation – Dr. Martin Wells, a Cornell epidemiologist – after finding his methodology unreliable​.

In April 2024, the judge consequently dismissed the first four MDL bellwether cases that had been set for trial because those plaintiffs could not prove that paraquat caused their illness​without Dr. Wells's testimony. This was a significant setback, effectively hitting “reset” on the federal bellwether process. However, plaintiffs’ attorneys are now challenging that decision.

An appeal is pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, where plaintiffs urge that the expert was held to an unreasonably high standard and should be allowed to testify. Docket detail: The plaintiffs-appellants filed briefs in early 2025, supported by advocacy groups for Parkinson’s patients, while industry groups (including the Chamber of Commerce and pharma manufacturers) filed amicus briefs supporting Syngenta’s position​.

Oral arguments were held in February 2025, and the Seventh Circuit is now weighing whether to reinstate the four dismissed cases by reversing the expert exclusion​. As of late April 2025, a decision has not yet been issued. In the meantime, Judge Rosenstengel and the parties have proceeded with the new bellwether pool, presumably identifying alternative expert witnesses. The plaintiffs’ counsel has indicated they are working on new expert reports to replace Dr. Wells, who will face their own Daubert challenges later this year.

Notably, the outcome of the Seventh Circuit appeal could have a broad impact – it’s seen as a test case for the tightened federal Rule 702 (expert evidence standard) that took effect in late 2023​. The MDL is moving forward on a dual track: preparing new experts and bellwethers for trial while waiting to see if the appellate court revives any previously dismissed cases.

March 1, 2025–New Case Filings and Bellwether Trial Updates

Recent Medical Studies Linking Paraquat to Parkinson’s Disease

Scientific research on Paraquat’s health effects has accelerated, providing crucial context for the litigation. Over the past month, researchers and advocacy groups have highlighted new findings and analyses examining the Paraquat–Parkinson’s connection.

Epidemiological Evidence of Risk

A comprehensive study of California’s Central Valley farming communities, led by UCLA researchers, found a strong association between chronic Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease. Published recently in the International Journal of Epidemiology, it reported that individuals who lived or worked near areas with heavy Paraquat use had roughly two-fold higher odds of developing Parkinson’s compared to unexposed controls.

For example, farm workers with long-term, high-intensity Paraquat exposure had an estimated 2.1 times higher risk of developing Parkinson’s. The researchers concluded that their data provides further indication that Paraquat increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease. This study supports what many plaintiffs allege – that proximity to Paraquat use significantly elevates Parkinson’s risk.

Consistent Link in Multiple Studies

Other recent studies echo these findings. Public health experts note that multiple credible studies show that farm workers and residents near Paraquat-treated fields face a higher incidence of Parkinson’s disease. These include case-control studies and meta-analyses: for instance, one meta-analysis of 13 studies found a significant association between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s, estimating an average 60–80% increase in risk. Toxicologists have also demonstrated biologically plausible mechanisms.

Animal experiments show that Paraquat causes oxidative stress and kills dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain, the same neurons impaired in Parkinson’s. Such findings, published in peer-reviewed journals, form the backbone of the plaintiffs’ scientific case.

Contrasting Findings and Debate

It is worth noting that not all research agrees. Some large-scale studies, including U.S. Agricultural Health Study data analyses, did not observe a statistically significant link between Paraquat use and Parkinson’s. A previous systematic review of recent epidemiology even concluded there was no compelling scientific argument for claiming causality, citing a lack of consistent dose-response evidence in specific cohorts.

Defense experts often highlight these null results to cast doubt on causation. However, plaintiffs point out potential limitations in those studies, such as healthy-worker biases or exposure misclassification, and emphasize that many independent studies worldwide show a link. This scientific divide—between studies finding elevated risk and those finding none—is at the heart of the courtroom battle over expert testimony. It also explains why the judge’s admissibility rulings on scientific experts have been critical in multidistrict litigation.

New Data and International Research

In the last 30 days, dozens of new scientific reports have been under review. The Michael J. Fox Foundation, as part of its petition to the Environmental Protection Agency, submitted 90 recent studies on Paraquat and Parkinson’s. This trove likely includes international research, as the concern over Paraquat is global. For example, Australian neurologists and UK researchers have publicly urged precaution, noting that if there is credible evidence of harm, regulators should not wait for absolute proof.

Many experts agree that Paraquat’s risk signal in epidemiological studies is too consistent to ignore. Recognizing this, countries worldwide have banned Paraquat as a hazard to public health. In the U.S., while debate continues, recent scientific findings steadily shift the burden of proof. The emerging data has already prompted U.S. policymakers to reconsider Paraquat’s registration, and it provides key support for plaintiffs’ legal arguments that the herbicide is a precipitating factor in Parkinson’s disease.

Bottom Line

In the past month, the Paraquat Parkinson’s litigation has seen a flurry of activity – new lawsuits filed, critical appeals on expert evidence, and trial dates set – amid growing scientific evidence of a link. Regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency are reexamining Paraquat’s safety in light of new research, reinforcing the plaintiffs’ case.

Conversely, defendants continue to dispute causation, armed with studies that question the link. As the first trial approaches, both legal and scientific developments from the last 30 days suggest that this controversy is reaching a pivotal point. The convergence of fresh epidemiological studies heightened regulatory scrutiny, and active courtroom battles will shape the outcomes for thousands of Parkinson’s patients seeking justice through these lawsuits.

February 1, 2025 - Paraquat MDL Update: 5,825 Active Cases, New Lawsuits Filed, and EPA Review Ongoing

The MDL now comprises 5,825 active lawsuits, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous month due to the dismissal of 10 cases in December 2024. Special Master Randy Ellis recommended the dismissal of 47 cases where plaintiffs failed to submit the required Plaintiff Assessment Questionnaires (PAQs) despite multiple opportunities to do so.

Two new lawsuits were filed in the MDL. One involves a Maryland resident who alleges that prolonged exposure to Paraquat during his work as a chemical applicator led to the development of Parkinson’s disease. The second case was filed by the family of a New York woman who was exposed to Paraquat on a family-owned farm and later developed Parkinson’s disease, leading to her death in 2023.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reviewing studies on Paraquat's safety, with a final report expected soon. This review was prompted by a lawsuit and ongoing concerns about the herbicide's potential link to Parkinson's disease.

January 1, 2025 - Paraquat Lawsuits Grow Amid Expert Testimony Challenges and New Scientific Findings

As of January 2025, the multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 3004) concerning Paraquat—a widely used herbicide—has expanded to include 5,835 pending cases, reflecting a consistent rise in legal actions alleging a link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson's disease.

In recent developments, Martin Wells, the plaintiffs' primary expert witness on general causation, was excluded from testifying in federal and California state courts. Judges deemed his methodology unreliable, posing significant challenges for the plaintiffs in establishing that Paraquat can cause Parkinson's disease.

On the scientific front, a study conducted by UCLA Health in California found that individuals with Parkinson's disease had higher exposure to Paraquat, supporting claims of its potential link to the disease.

Additionally, a Congressional briefing highlighted the severe health risks associated with Paraquat, including its potential connection to Parkinson's disease, intensifying calls for regulatory action.

Despite these concerns, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has maintained its approval of Paraquat, stating that "Parkinson's Disease is not an expected health outcome of pesticidal use of paraquat."

The ongoing litigation and emerging studies fuel the debate over Paraquat's safety, with significant implications for public health policies and agricultural practices.

December 1, 2024 - Legal Filings and Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)

Increase in Filed Cases

The number of lawsuits involving paraquat continues to grow. As of November 2024, 5,818 paraquat lawsuits were pending, and 7,115 cases were filed in Illinois federal court.

Recent Legal Actions

On November 12, 2024, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed in the paraquat multidistrict litigation (MDL). The family of a Virginia agricultural worker alleges that repeated exposure to paraquat caused the decedent to develop Parkinson's disease, ultimately leading to his death.

November 1, 2024 - New Order Enforces Proof of Exposure Rules for All Plaintiffs in Paraquat MDL

In the latest Paraquat MDL order, the court clarified that Case Management Order (CMO) No. 21, issued in February, applies to all plaintiffs in the MDL, including those who joined after the order was issued. CMO 21 requires plaintiffs to gather documents from third parties, like employers or medical providers, to show proof of Paraquat exposure. This rule aims to help plaintiffs assess their claims and filter out weaker cases.

Recently, defendants identified 586 plaintiffs who did not follow these rules and requested the court issue a show-cause order. In response, the court’s new CMO No. 21A filed October 28, 2024, grants plaintiffs listed as non-compliant 21 days to meet these requirements, or their cases could be dismissed. For future cases, new plaintiffs must issue subpoenas within 60 days of filing, meet deadlines for document collection, and upload records to a designated portal. This new structure is designed to streamline the litigation and ensure each claim has proper support.

October 1, 2024 - Paraquat Lawsuits Back on Track: 10 New Bellwether Cases Move Forward as Parkinson’s Disease Claims Rise

There have been several key updates on the ongoing Paraquat lawsuits, particularly regarding its alleged link to Parkinson’s disease. As of October 2024, 5,891 active lawsuits are pending in the Paraquat MDL (multidistrict litigation), with 6,959 cases filed in Illinois federal court. This MDL, taking place in the Southern District of Illinois under Judge Nancy Rosenstengel, saw a significant development when ten new bellwether cases were selected to move into discovery, replacing four cases dismissed earlier in the year due to expert testimony issues.

The litigation slowed for a few months after the dismissal of key expert testimony; however, things are picking back up with these new cases expected to proceed to depositions by November 2024. These lawsuits continue to allege that exposure to the herbicide Paraquat caused or significantly contributed to Parkinson’s disease in agricultural workers and others exposed to the chemical.

Parkinson's Disease Basic Information

In medical terms, Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the neurons that produce dopamine in your brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that controls your nervous system by sending messages between cells. Improperly sent or received messages can change your physical movements, memory, attention, and behavior.

Parkinson's disease symptoms usually develop slowly over time and vary from person to person. People with Parkinson's disease may experience motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms.

Parkinson's disease symptoms usually develop slowly over time and vary from person to person. People with Parkinson's disease may experience motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms.

Motor Symptoms

Common motor symptoms include:

• Tremors, usually while resting: One of the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson's disease is tremors, which often occur when the muscles are relaxed or at rest. These involuntary shaking movements typically begin in the hands or fingers and can spread to other parts of the body as the disease progresses. The tremors may become more pronounced during stress or fatigue.
• Slow movements and walking: Known as bradykinesia, slow movements are a common motor symptom of Parkinson's. This slowness affects everyday tasks, making it difficult to initiate movements, such as standing up or starting to walk. Walking often becomes shuffling and may involve short, hesitant steps, contributing to a stooped posture and reduced arm swing.
• Stiff or rigid limbs: Muscle stiffness or rigidity is another common symptom, leading to a feeling of tightness in the limbs. This rigidity can make it hard to move freely, resulting in discomfort and a limited range of motion. It can affect various parts of the body, including the neck, shoulders, and legs, and may cause aches or cramps.
• Balance issues and posture instability: Parkinson's disease affects the body's ability to maintain balance and posture, leading to instability. This can cause unsteadiness while standing or walking, increasing the risk of falls. Postural instability is often more pronounced in the later stages of the disease, and individuals may find it difficult to recover balance if pushed or jostled.

Non-motor Symptoms

Non-motor symptoms can present even more significant challenges and may include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disorders
• Hallucinations
• Constipation
• Loss of smell
• Other cognitive issues

Parkinson's disease progresses through five defined stages, from mild motor symptoms to needing full-time care. As the disease progresses, everyday activities such as walking and talking become difficult or impossible. As you can imagine, the necessary treatment and support to help Parkinson's patients get through the day and retain as much independence as possible can cost thousands of dollars.

If you were exposed to Paraquat and professionally diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, talk to a mass tort lawyer to determine if you may file a lawsuit and request compensation for your losses. Keep in mind Parkinson's disease symptoms alone are legally insufficient to file a claim. You must have a professional medical diagnosis to qualify for legal action.

What Is Paraquat and Who Is at Risk of Paraquat Exposure?

Basic Information About Paraquat

Paraquat dichloride, known simply as Paraquat, is sold under different brand names, including Gramoxone, Firestorm, and Parazone. It is a cheap, extremely toxic herbicide widely used as an agricultural weed killer.

Paraquat is banned in more than 32 countries, including the European Union. However, it is still legal in the United States and regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

Paraquat cannot be applied in residential settings or by average consumers. Only licensed applicators may handle this dangerous chemical, and it can only be used in commercial and agricultural settings.

Knowing how toxic Paraquat is, the EPA requires certain additives to help prevent accidental poisoning.

• Paraquat must contain a blue dye to ensure no one confuses it for a beverage, 
• A strong odor is added to warn people that they should not consume it, and
• A vomit-inducing substance is also added, so in the case of accidental ingestion, the person will expel the poison.

Several manufacturers continue to produce this poisonous substance, knowing it is dangerous and harmful to humans, and the EPA still allows its use. The following list includes known Paraquat manufacturers. We believe these companies may be held liable for Parkinson's disease caused by their herbicide:

Chevron Chemical Company

Located in San Ramon, California, Chevron Chemical Company is a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation, founded in 1984. It is known for producing a wide range of chemical products, including agricultural chemicals, fuels, and lubricants, leveraging Chevron's extensive expertise in the energy sector.

Syngenta

Syngenta, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, was founded in 2000. It is renowned for its agricultural science and technology, particularly in developing pesticides and genetically modified seeds, playing a significant role in enhancing crop yields and farming efficiency worldwide.

Drexel Chemical Company

Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Drexel Chemical Company was founded in 1972. The company specializes in producing a variety of agricultural chemicals, including herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides, aimed at improving crop protection and productivity for farmers.

Adama Group

Adama Group, headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel, was established in 1945. Known for its extensive portfolio of crop protection products, Adama focuses on providing innovative and practical solutions to help farmers manage weeds, insects, and diseases in their crops.

Altitude Crop Innovations

Altitude Crop Innovations is a relatively new player in the agricultural industry, headquartered in Fort Collins, Colorado. The company specializes in developing advanced crop protection solutions and sustainable agricultural practices to enhance crop performance and environmental sustainability.

United Phosphorus

United Phosphorus Limited (UPL), headquartered in Mumbai, India, was founded in 1969. UPL is a global leader in agrochemicals and crop protection products, offering various solutions including herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides to improve agricultural productivity.

Helm Agro

Helm Agro, based in Hamburg, Germany, was founded in 1900. It is part of Helm AG, a global chemical marketing enterprise. Helm Agro provides innovative crop protection solutions, including herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides, to enhance agricultural efficiency and sustainability.

Sinon USA

Sinon USA is a subsidiary of Sinon Corporation, based in Taichung, Taiwan, and was established in 1955. Sinon USA, located in Wilmington, Delaware, specializes in manufacturing and distributing agricultural chemicals, including herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides, to support modern farming practices.

Innvictis Crop Care

Innvictis Crop Care, headquartered in Denver, Colorado, was founded in 2012. The company is known for its innovative approach to crop protection, offering a comprehensive range of products and solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of farmers and enhance crop performance.

Health Risks Associated with Paraquat Exposure

Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide with severe health consequences. Exposure occurs through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. In most of the cases involved in the lawsuit, however, the negative health issues are caused by long-term exposure to the weed killer rather than a single direct event. However, the following information can apply to "paraquat poisoning" and long-term exposure to the herbicide.

Immediate Effects

• Respiratory System: Difficulty breathing, pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs), respiratory failure.
• Gastrointestinal System: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, damage to the digestive tract.
• Cardiovascular System: Irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, heart failure.
• Central Nervous System: Seizures, tremors, confusion, coma.
• Skin: Chemical burns and irritation.

Long-Term Effects

• Respiratory System: Chronic lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of lung tissue).
• Kidney and Liver Damage: Chronic kidney and liver failure.
• Other Potential Risks: While research is ongoing, potential long-term effects include cancer and reproductive issues.

Who Is Most Likely to Be Harmed by Paraquat Exposure?

Paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide, poses significant health risks to those exposed to it. People in contact with Paraquat over long periods are the most likely to be harmed by this substance.

This high-risk group includes:

• Licensed Paraquat Applicators: These individuals are directly involved in mixing, loading, and applying Paraquat, placing them at significant risk of exposure.
• Crop Dusting Pilots: Pilots spraying Paraquat from aerial applications are exposed to potential drift and inhalation hazards.
• Agricultural Workers: Farmers, field hands, and those directly involved in crop spraying or harvesting are at heightened risk due to direct contact with the chemical.
• Chemical Plant Workers: Employees involved in the manufacturing and production of Paraquat face potential exposure during the production process.
• Transportation Workers: Truck drivers transporting Paraquat, especially those handling spills or accidents, are at risk.
• Residents Near Agricultural Areas: Individuals living near areas where Paraquat is used can be exposed through drift, runoff, or accidental spills.

It's essential to note that even minimal exposure to Paraquat can have severe health consequences, emphasizing the importance of protective measures and responsible handling of this hazardous chemical.

How Does Paraquat Exposure Occur?

Experts have identified at least four ways paraquat exposure can occur:

1. Herbicide drift. When Paraquat is sprayed on a parcel of land, the droplets can drift through the air in hot and humid conditions, even without strong wind.
2. Herbicide overspray. If an applicator makes a mistake or applies Paraquat in heavy wind, the spray can cover adjoining areas they did not mean to spray.
3. Herbicide runoff. Paraquat can seep into the ground and contaminate the soil and nearby water sources. Paraquat can poison adjoining property owners and others downstream from the area that was sprayed through ground or water contamination.
4. Ingestion. If Paraquat comes into contact with any food or water source and consumers eat or drink the contaminated items, they can become very sick. Even small amounts of this toxic chemical over a long time can lead to chronic medical concerns. 

Depending on where you work, live, and play, you might have been exposed to Paraquat without your knowledge. People who live near industrial farms, children who attend school in rural areas near farms, and even golfers who play on courses treated with Paraquat may have been exposed. 

The following products are known to contain Paraquat and, therefore, potentially expose people to the risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

• Gramoxone
• Parazone
• Quick-Quat
• Para-Shot 3.0
• Helmquat 3SL
• Cyclone SL 2.0
• Firestorm
• Crisquat
• Dexuron
• Para-col
• Devour
• Bonedry
• Blanco
• Dexuron
• Esgram
• Ortho Paraquat CL
• Tota-col
• PP148
• Garmixel
• Pillarxone
• AH 501
• Bai Cao Ku

Once Paraquat is in your body, it travels everywhere. Your lungs, liver, and kidneys are the most susceptible to paraquat damage, especially over time. Ingesting this poison can damage your mouth, stomach, and intestines and can be fatal. There is no cure for paraquat poisoning.

Scientific Studies Link Paraquat Exposure to an Increased Risk of Developing Parkinson's Disease

Michael J. Fox is one of the most famous advocates of Parkinson's disease (PD). He created the Unified Parkinson's Advocacy Council to share important information and help others with PD. One of its studies showed that people exposed to Paraquat at a young age and over an extended timeframe have a 200 to 600 percent increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

In the past several years, other studies have also shown a link between paraquat exposure and PD, including these scientific reports:

• 2009 - American Journal of Epidemiology
• 2011 - Environmental Health Perspectives
• 2011 - National Institute of Health (Farming and Movement Evaluation Study)
• 2012 - Genetic Modification Association of Paraquat and Parkinson's Disease
• 2016 - Environmental Protection Agency
• 2016 - Nature Chemical Biology

Overall, researchers believe that high levels of the chemicals found in Paraquat contribute to the development of PD. Although the manufacturers have known the risks for decades, they still produce Paraquat for use in the United States, and the EPA still allows its use. 

A study from the National Institute of Environmental Health Services determined that people exposed to Paraquat because of their employment were two and a half times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease. This is why farm workers and paraquat applicators are in the highest risk category for paraquat-related PD.

What Paraquat Exposure Symptoms Should You Look For?

In addition to the long-term issues related to Parkinson's disease, paraquat poisoning is a genuine concern. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eating or drinking the toxin is the most common way Paraquat poisons people.

Skin exposure can also lead to problems, especially with broken skin, such as an open wound or cut. Also, inhaling Paraquat can lead to lung damage, among other issues.

Potential symptoms of paraquat poisoning include:

• Pain and swelling in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract,
• Dehydration, low blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances,
• Long-term complications such as:
  • Heart and kidney failure.
  • Liver damage and scarring, and 
  • Lung scarring.
• A large amount of paraquat poisoning can lead to these severe problems within a few short hours or days:
  • Confusion,
  • Acute kidney failure,
  • Coma,
  • Heart damage,
  • Liver failure,
  • Muscle weakness, 
  • Fluid build-up in the lungs,
  • Respiratory failure,
  • Seizures, and 
  • Death.

Most people who are exposed to Paraquat in large quantities do not survive. There is currently no antidote or cure for paraquat poisoning.

Recently, personal injury lawyers have filed several lawsuits to protect people using these toxic chemicals and others who were inadvertently exposed to these dangerous substances and then developed Parkinson's disease and other serious health issues.

A nationwide multi-district litigation (MDL) was established to consolidate all federal paraquat lawsuits. Injured plaintiffs join this MDL every month to streamline pre-trial discovery and motion hearings and ensure consistent court rulings about important legal issues.

What Compensation Can I Request?

To file a lawsuit, you must have been exposed to Paraquat and then diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. You can request financial compensation for your related expenses, losses, and mental distress in your claim.

Our legal team can help you hold negligent chemical manufacturers responsible for their actions.

Specifically, you can request money to help you pay:

• Medical bills related to your paraquat-related conditions, including Parkinson's disease issues: This can cover the costs of doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, medical tests, and any specialized treatments needed to manage Parkinson's disease and other health problems caused by paraquat exposure. For example, these expenses would be included if you have to undergo regular MRI scans or need to see a neurologist frequently.
• Rehabilitation costs: This includes the costs of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and any other rehabilitation services required to help you regain or maintain function and mobility. For instance, if you need ongoing sessions with a physical therapist to manage Parkinson's disease symptoms, those costs would be part of your claim.
• Long-term costs for therapies, assistive care, and other related services: This encompasses long-term expenses like in-home care and nursing home care, as well as the cost of assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and home modifications (like installing ramps or grab bars). For example, these costs would be covered if you require a home health aide to assist with daily activities.
• Lost income: This refers to the wages you have lost because your Paraquat-related condition has made it impossible for you to work. For instance, if you had to take an extended leave of absence from your job or could no longer perform your job duties due to Parkinson's disease, you could claim the income you have lost during that period.
• Future lost earnings: This covers the income you would have earned without developing a Paraquat-related condition. For example, if you cannot return to work due to your condition, you could claim the wages you would have earned until your expected retirement age.
• Pain, suffering, emotional distress, anguish, and other mental health concerns: This includes compensation for the physical pain and suffering you have endured, as well as the emotional and psychological impact of your condition. For example, if you experience chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues as a result of your illness, these would be part of your claim.
• Loss of life enjoyment and family relationships: This accounts for how your condition has diminished your quality of life and affected your relationships with family and friends. For instance, if you are no longer able to participate in hobbies, social activities, or family events that you once enjoyed, if you can no longer have your grandkids over to stay the night, or if your illness has placed a strain on your marriage or other relationships, these losses would be considered in your damages.
• Punitive damages to punish the manufacturers under certain circumstances: In cases where the manufacturers of Paraquat are found to have acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct, you could be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. For example, if it is proven that the manufacturers knew about the risks of Paraquat but failed to warn users or take appropriate measures, punitive damages could be sought. Punitive damages are rare but when they are issued, it is usually in large cases like the Paraquat Lawsuits.

During a free case consultation, our mass tort lawyers can evaluate your claim, create a legal strategy, answer all your questions, and explain what you might recover.

Our mission is to help hard-working agricultural workers and innocent bystanders exposed to Paraquat recover the maximum compensation possible.

How Much Is My Paraquat-Related Parkinson's Lawsuit Worth?

As with most personal injury cases, it is difficult to place a value on a paraquat Parkinson's disease claim. Since every situation is different and every person reacts differently to dangerous products, we need to learn all about your unique circumstances before we can provide a solid legal analysis.

In general, the value of your case will depend on:

• The extent of your paraquat contact. Did you eat or drink the chemical in tainted food or water? Was it sprayed near your home, and you inhaled it? How much Paraquat were you exposed to, and for how long?
• The severity of your medical issues. Parkinson's disease is different for each person. What are your limitations? Can you care for yourself, or do you need assistance? Are you in pain occasionally, frequently, or constantly? 
• The length of time you will deal with Parkinson's disease. If you were exposed at a young age and developed early onset Parkinson's disease, you will have many more years dealing with this progressive condition than an older person who was recently exposed. 
• The amount of financial losses you incurred. Are you incurring expenses annually, monthly, or daily? Have you lost your job because of the complications Paraquat created?
• The emotional and mental anguish you face. How are you handling your diagnosis and treatment? How are your family relationships?

If you were in contact with Paraquat at work or exposed by a nearby agricultural business and developed Parkinson's disease, you may bring a mass tort claim against the manufacturers and request compensation for your losses. Talk with an experienced paraquat lawsuit attorney to learn more.

Contact an Experienced Product Liability Attorney

Suffering the debilitating effects of Parkinson's disease as a result of chemical exposure is something no one should have to go through, especially not alone. Our paraquat lawyers want to support you during this difficult time by negotiating a settlement compensating you for your physical, emotional, and financial losses.

The companies that manufacture and sell Paraquat have deep pockets and large legal teams ready to defend against these lawsuits.

As a result, it's imperative that anyone who has been injured by these products partners with a legal team that has the resources and experience to challenge big corporations and succeed. To protect your future, we are prepared to take on these corporate giants and won't back down until justice is served.

Call Our Paraquat Attorneys for a Free Consultation

We offer free consultations for injured clients who want to explore their legal options. You can reach us at (727) 451-6900 or through our online contact form. The team at Lawsuit Legal News can provide valuable insight into the personal injury claims process as we help you recover the maximum compensation available for your injuries and related damages. Specifically, Matthew Dolman is an experienced Paraquat attorney representing many individuals in this lawsuit. 

Specifically, Matthew Dolman is an experienced Paraquat attorney representing several individuals in this lawsuit.

Did you Develop Parkinson's Disease Following Prolonged Exposure to Paraquat?

We are confident in the science that individuals exposed to Paraquat are far more likely to develop Parkinson's disease. If you would like to learn more about the Paraquat Parkinson's disease lawsuit, please email Attorney Dolman directly at matt@dolmanlaw.com.

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Real Examples of People Suffering from Paraquat

Thomas Hoffman's Case

Thomas Hoffman was a farmer who developed Parkinson's disease after long-term exposure to Paraquat. His exposure began in the fifth grade, helping his parent on their farm, and continued for decades. Thomas filed a lawsuit against the makers of Paraquat in September 2017 and passed away just 23 days later. 

His case highlights the severe impact of prolonged Paraquat exposure and the need for affected individuals to seek legal help as soon as possible. Thomas's case also speaks to the need for prompt legal action from our justice system since some of these plaintiffs have very little time left.

James Hemker's Neurological Damage

James Hemker helped on his family's farm in the 1960s and 70s, when Paraquat was used regularly. In 2008, James was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease after years of exposure to the dangerous weed killer. He filed a lawsuit against Paraquat manufacturers Syngenta and Chevron in 2021. 

His lawsuit claims that the manufacturers did not adequately warn James about the risks of neurological damage from Paraquat exposure and were, therefore, responsible for his Parkinson's diagnosis.

Maria Sanchez - Resident Near Farmland

Maria Sanchez lived near a large farming area where Paraquat was regularly sprayed. Despite not working directly with the herbicide, Maria developed Parkinson’s disease. Her doctors believe that long-term environmental exposure to Paraquat, possibly through contaminated water or air, was a significant factor in her illness.

John Blanchard, A Farmer from Illinois

John Blanchard, a lifelong farmer, regularly used Paraquat to control weeds on his farm. After decades of exposure, John began experiencing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty walking, which were later diagnosed as Parkinson's disease. His family has since filed a lawsuit against the manufacturers of Paraquat, alleging that the product caused his debilitating condition.

Sarah Thompson, An Agricultural Worker in California

Sarah Thompson worked on a large farm in California for many years, where Paraquat was frequently used. She was often responsible for mixing and applying the herbicide, usually without adequate protective equipment. 

Years later, Sarah developed respiratory issues, which were followed by a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Her case has drawn attention to the lack of safety measures for workers exposed to dangerous chemicals like Paraquat.

Tom Jefferson, Landscape Professional from Florida

Tom Jefferson, a landscaper from Florida, used Paraquat in his daily work for over a decade. Over time, he started to notice a decline in his motor skills and began experiencing cognitive problems. Eventually, Tom was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. 

His family believes that his extended exposure to Paraquat is directly responsible for his condition, so they are seeking compensation in the Paraquat MDL.

These examples highlight the real dangers of Paraquat exposure and its severe impact on individuals and their families. Many victims and their families are seeking justice through legal avenues, hoping to hold the manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by this toxic chemical.