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Can Brain Injuries Be Caused by Chemical Exposure?

| Aug 2, 2017 | Catastrophic Injury

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 1.5 million people suffer from traumatic brain injuries each year in the United States alone. Many of these brain injuries are caused by some severe physical traumas, such as a hard fall or a car accident. However, many people don’t realize chemical exposure could also pose a similar risk.

There are almost 1,000 types of substances scientists have identified as having neurotoxic effects, meaning they are toxic to the brain. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can have long-lasting effects on a person’s brain.

The most dangerous of these substances include metals, solvents, fuels, pesticides, and carbon monoxide. For example, people have known for thousands of years mercury is an incredibly dangerous metal to touch or interact with. Historically, hatters would use mercury in the production of beaver-hide
hats, which exposed them to high levels of mercury. This exposure would cause issues with the brain, causing hatters to exhibit abnormal behavior. Ever heard the phrase “mad as a hatter”?

People who tend to work with these substances on a day-to-day basis are the ones most at risk for exposure. Pesticides, for example, can affect field workers, while solvents used in glues, paints, and thinners can cause neurological issues in builders and painters who use them.

If you or your loved one has suffered a brain injury because of negligent chemical exposure, talk to one of our skilled Otsego County catastrophic injury attorneys as soon as possible. Scarzafava, Basdekis & Dadey, PLLC are dedicated to helping the victims of negligence seek compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Let us see what we can do for you.

Contact us at (607) 228-8404 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case consultation with us today.

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