South Carolina Personal Injury Law Blog
Growing scientific research has linked the widely used herbicide Paraquat to Parkinson’s disease, a debilitating neurological disorder with no known cure. Paraquat is one of the most toxic chemicals still legal in the United States, though it is banned in more than 50 countries worldwide. Paraquat is commonly sold under brand names like Gramoxone, Firestorm, and Parazone.
Originally developed in the early 1960s, Paraquat is a fast-acting weedkiller used primarily by licensed applicators in commercial agriculture. It’s often sprayed on crops like soybeans, corn, cotton, and grapes, especially in southern states like South Carolina, where it has long been applied to tobacco and other regional crops. This herbicide has also been widely used by utility workers, spraying it on power lines, roads, and rights of way to clear vegetation.
The dangers of Paraquat are well-documented. Just a few drops can be lethal if ingested, and even skin exposure or inhalation can result in poisoning, lung scarring, organ failure, and long-term neurological damage. Most concerning is the strong and consistent link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease. Studies show that individuals exposed to Paraquat are up to 2.5 times more likely to develop Parkinson’s than non-exposed individuals. Symptoms of Parkinson’s can include tremors, stiffness, difficulty walking, memory issues, mood changes, and motor dysfunction. Many victims require long-term medical care, and the condition often robs individuals of their independence and quality of life.
Despite the risks, manufacturers of Paraquat-containing herbicides have allegedly failed to provide adequate warnings about the potential for long-term neurological harm. Many agricultural workers and nearby residents may have unknowingly been exposed to dangerous levels of the chemical, putting them at significant risk.
The legal team at Knie & Shealy Law Offices believes those harmed by this dangerous chemical deserve answers—and justice.
Call us today at (864) 582-5118 to schedule your free consultation and learn more about your legal rights.