Dacthal Lawsuit (DCPA) – Lawyer For Pesticide Exposure & Birth Defects

WHAT IS DACTHAL (DCPA)?

Dacthal (Dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate or DCPA) is a herbicide commonly used to control weeds in various crops. Recent studies have linked exposure to Dacthal during pregnancy to serious birth defects and developmental issues.

Products that contain DCPA include:

• Dacthal
• Dacthal W-75
• Dacthal Flowable Herbicide
• Dacthal 6F
• DCPA 75WDG
• DCPA 6E
• DCPA 75 DF 

EPA Issues Emergency Stop Order for Dacthal

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an emergency stop order for the herbicide Dacthal, also known as dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA). This order suspends all sales and use of Dacthal due to significant risks, particularly for pregnant women and their unborn children.

A History of Concern & EPA Action

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) and other public health advocates have long raised concerns about DCPA. Studies dating back to the 1980s indicated potential cancer risks and thyroid disruption, particularly in pregnant women and farmworkers. The recent EPA emergency order is a response to these longstanding concerns.

If you or a loved one was exposed to Dacthal and have suffered as a result, you may be entitled to compensation.

DCPA Exposure & Birth Defect Dangers

Dacthal (DCPA) exposure has been linked to severe health risks, especially for developing fetuses. The following conditions may be associated with DCPA exposure:

• Low birth weight
• Impaired brain development
• Decreased IQ
• Impaired motor skills
• Decreased bone deposition

These issues can lead to lifelong developmental challenges and serious health problems.

AMVAC Chemical & Dacthal Production

AMVAC Chemical Corporation, the manufacturer of Dacthal, has been under scrutiny by the EPA due to the serious health and environmental risks associated with DCPA. Despite this, Dacthal has been widely used in agricultural and residential settings for decades.

Where Was Dacthal Used?

Dacthal is primarily used to control weeds in crops like broccoli, cabbage, and onions. It has also been used in residential lawns, landscaping, and public spaces such as golf courses.

Common exposure scenarios include:

• Occupational Exposure: Farmworkers, gardeners, and individuals handling DCPA-containing products.
• Residential Exposure: People living near agricultural fields or areas where DCPA is applied.
• Recreational Exposure: Individuals frequenting public spaces treated with DCPA.

Dacthal Exposure in Texas

Texas is a key state of concern for Dacthal exposure due to its extensive agricultural activities, particularly in vegetable production. The widespread use of Dacthal in Texas has raised significant health concerns, especially for pregnant farmworkers and nearby communities. These concerns include risks of altered fetal thyroid hormone levels and other developmental issues in newborns, prompting increased litigation and regulatory scrutiny.

Taking Legal Action for DCPA Exposure

Pregnant women exposed to Dacthal (DCPA) may be entitled to compensation. If you worked with DCPA or lived near areas where it was used, and your child has experienced health issues, The Law Giant can help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.

Am I Eligible for Dactha Compensation?

The Law Giant is advocating for the rights of individuals and families adversely affected by this hazardous pesticide. We focus on specific criteria to ensure each client receives the highest level of legal support. You may be eligible for compensation if:

• You worked on a farm or nursery where DCPA-treated crops were grown during your pregnancy.
• You were exposed to DCPA through direct application or proximity to treated areas.
• Your child has experienced health issues that may be linked to DCPA exposure.

Our lawyers are primarily looking for victims with direct exposure. While indirect exposure might also pose risks, proving such cases is more challenging. To qualify, claimants must demonstrate direct exposure, typically by providing evidence of working in or residing near locations where Dacthal was actively used, such as farms, nurseries, or residential landscaping areas.

The strongest DCPA lawsuits are those involving significant duration and intensity of exposure.

What Needs to Be Established in a DCPA Claim?

To successfully pursue a Dacthal lawsuit, the following elements must be established:

• Exposure: Demonstrate that you or your child were directly exposed to Dacthal (DCPA) during pregnancy, either through work, proximity to treated areas, or other direct contact.
• Causation: Provide evidence that links the exposure to DCPA with the birth defects or developmental issues suffered by your child. This typically involves expert testimony, medical records, and studies showing the harmful effects of DCPA exposure.
• Negligence: Prove that the manufacturer, AMVAC Chemical Corporation, failed to warn about the risks associated with Dacthal or knowingly concealed information about its dangers.

The Possible Damages for Dacthal Birth Defects

If you or your child have been affected by Dacthal exposure, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills related to the treatment of conditions caused by DCPA exposure.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work, whether temporarily or permanently, as a result of health complications.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional distress experienced due to the injuries or health conditions caused by Dacthal.
• Disability: Compensation for any permanent disability or impairment resulting from exposure.
• Loss of Quality of Life: Damages for the impact on your or your child’s ability to enjoy life fully, including limitations on daily activities, social interactions, and overall well-being. 

DCPA Claims: What Are the Potential Outcomes?

The outcomes of DCPA lawsuits can vary based on the strength of the evidence and the specifics of each case. Potential outcomes include:

• Dacthal Settlement: Many cases may be resolved through a settlement, where the manufacturer agrees to compensate the affected parties without going to trial. Settlements can vary widely depending on the severity of the harm and the number of plaintiffs involved.
• Trial Verdict: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial. A successful trial could result in a significant monetary award, including compensatory and possibly punitive damages.
• Class Action or MDL: If multiple cases are filed, they may be consolidated into a class action or multidistrict litigation (MDL), which can streamline the legal process and potentially lead to a collective settlement or trial outcome.

The Law Giant Wins Big in Class Actions

The Law Giant has extensive experience in handling complex mass tort cases, including:

• Paraquat Lawsuit: Fighting for victims of Parkinson’s disease caused by exposure to the herbicide Paraquat.
• Camp Lejeune Claims: Advocating for military families affected by toxic water exposure at Camp Lejeune.
• Tepezza Lawsuits: Representing individuals who suffered hearing loss after taking the drug Tepezza.

With over $700 million recovered, we have the experience, resources, and skill to help your family too.