A recent untreated wastewater spill in the Pearl River killed thousands of fish. State officials are not certain how the contamination will impact the surrounding community’s drinking water; however, some officials are optimistic that the damage will not affect citizens because the Pearl River is not a source of drinking water for neighboring communities.
Nevertheless, the spill highlights the need to ensure corporations take adequate safety precautions when handling hazardous toxins in our communities. Groundwater and soil contamination pose serious long-term health consequences in affected communities. The exposure of even a small amount of a toxin can lead to cancer, neurological disorders, liver and kidney damage, immune system problems, and birth defects.
When a corporation fails to exercise reasonable care in handling toxic materials, they should be held legally responsible. The tort theories of negligence, trespass, and nuisance are effective means of redress for families injured as a result of toxic environmental contamination.
If you believe that you or a loved one were exposed to toxic environmental contamination, you may have legal rights. For questions, contact Broussard, David & Moroux at 1-888-337-2323 (toll free) or 337-233-2323 (local).