1,4-Dioxane Exposure

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Toxic exposure cases have been on the rise in recent years, and one chemical that’s gaining significant attention is 1,4-dioxane. With mounting evidence linking it to serious health conditions, victims are seeking justice and compensation for their suffering. If you or a loved one have been exposed to this hazardous chemical, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps to take for legal recourse.

Our team of attorneys at Douglas & London understands the complexity of an environmental toxic exposure lawsuit, from class action suits resulting from widespread chemical exposure in common consumer products to individual cases. We provide a full complimentary case evaluation to determine which parties may be liable for your injuries and their related costs. If you decide to move forward with a chemical exposure lawsuit, you owe us no fees unless we achieve restitution on your behalf.

What is 1,4-Dioxane?

1,4-dioxane is a synthetic chemical used as a solvent and a stabilizer in a wide range of industrial processes. Unfortunately, its widespread use and presence in contaminated drinking water supplies have increased human exposure, sparking concerns over its potential to cause severe health issues.

The Agency for Toxic Exposure and Disease Registry (ATSDR) reports that “Exposure to high levels of 1,4-dioxane in the air can result in nasal cavity, liver, and kidney damage. Ingestion or dermal contact with high levels of 1,4-dioxane can damage the liver and kidneys. 1,4-dioxane has been found in at least 31 of 1,689 National Priorities List (NPL) sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).”

Other names for 1,4-dioxane include:

Diethylene ether
1,4-Dioxacyclohexane
Diethylene oxide
Dioxyethylene ether
Glycol ethylene ether
Para-dioxane

1,4-dioxane is an industrial chemical commonly used in manufacturing processes and often found as a byproduct in personal care products and detergents. It is classified as a probable human carcinogen.

Health Risks Associated with 1,4 Dioxane Exposure

While most risks associated with 1,4-dioxane stem from long-term exposure, even small amounts can pose serious health hazards. In a worst-case scenario, 1,4-dioxane exposure can prove fatal. Lab rats given water with 1,4-dioxane developed high rates of kidney cancer. Humans have been diagnosed with severe liver damage as well as kidney disease.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes 1,4-dioxane as “a likely human carcinogen.” Its presence has been detected in groundwater throughout the country. In addition, short-term exposure to 1,4-dioxane may result in headaches, nausea and vomiting, throat and lung irritation, and vertigo.

What Products Could Contain 1,4-Dioxane?

1,4-dioxane products include adhesives, antifreeze, dyes, greases, antifreeze, aircraft de-icing fluids, industrial solvents, laundry detergent, paint strippers, and personal care items, including shampoo, deodorants, and cosmetics. In addition, “traces may be found in some food supplements, food containing residues from packaging adhesives or on food crops treated with pesticides that contain 1,4-dioxane (ATSCR 2012).”

How Can I Be Exposed to 1,4 Dioxane?

Exposure to 1,4-dioxane occurs through the skin, ingestion, or inhalation–the least common method. Drinking water contaminated with 1,4-dioxane is the most frequent source of exposure. Those working in industries such as chemical manufacturing are vulnerable.

When released into the air, 1,4-dioxane usually dissipates quickly. However, if it hits the soil, the chemical does not stick to the particles. It eventually infiltrates the groundwater. Because 1,4-dioxane is designed to mix easily with water and not break down, this leads to environmental contamination.

For example, 1,4-dioxane has leached into groundwater on Long Island due to its proximity to industrial manufacturing. In addition, trace amounts of the chemical found in shampoo and similar products add to the issue of contaminating aquifers and exposing residents. In Hempstead, authorities report that 1,4-dioxane has reached “unhealthy levels” in all the town’s nine wells serving the public water system.

Who Can File a Lawsuit?

If you have been diagnosed with a health condition linked to 1,4-dioxane exposure or if a loved one has passed away due to complications arising from toxic exposure, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Anyone exposed to 1,4-dioxane through their drinking water, workplace, or use of contaminated products may have grounds to file a claim. This includes individuals suffering from health issues such as cancer, liver damage, or kidney disease that can be traced back to 1,4-dioxane.

In the unfortunate event that a loved one has died as a result of 1,4-dioxane-related health complications, family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit. These cases seek to recover compensation for the loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and other damages caused by the untimely death.

Statute of Limitations

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally three years from the injury date. The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is two years from the death date. Failing to file your lawsuit by those deadlines generally means your case cannot proceed.

Proving 1,4-Dioxane Exposure and Injury

Successfully filing a toxic exposure lawsuit requires more than just establishing that you were exposed to 1,4-dioxane. Your legal team will need to prove the connection between your exposure and the health issues you’re suffering from.

Gathering Evidence of Exposure

The first step in building a strong case is gathering evidence that proves your exposure to 1,4-dioxane. This may include:

Water quality reports from your local area
Workplace safety records
Medical records documenting your condition

Once exposure is established, it’s crucial to prove that your injuries were caused by the 1,4-dioxane exposure. This often involves expert testimony from medical professionals who can link your diagnosis to the chemical.

Compensation Available for Victims

If your lawsuit is successful, you could be entitled to significant compensation to cover the physical, emotional, and financial toll of 1,4-dioxane exposure. Victims can recover compensation for medical bills, ongoing treatment, and any necessary future medical care related to their toxic exposure. In addition to medical costs, you may also be compensated for the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life caused by 1,4-dioxane exposure.

Our Experienced Environmental Exposure Lawyers Can Help

At Douglas & London, we understand the devastating impact of toxic exposure on your health and life. Our experienced environmental toxic exposure lawyers are dedicated to holding corporations accountable for their negligence and helping victims secure the compensation they need to move forward. We have a proven track record of success in toxic exposure cases and are ready to put our expertise to work for you.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by 1,4-dioxane exposure, don’t wait to take action. Contact Douglas & London today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. Since we work on a contingency basis, you pay no fee unless you receive compensation.