We have helped to secure more than $80 billion in jury verdicts and settlements since 1955.
If you were a pregnant farmworker exposed to the herbicide dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA), commonly known as Dacthal, and your baby has suffered health issues, you might be entitled to compensation. Our Dacthal lawsuit lawyers are investigating cases for families affected by DCPA exposure, and our law firm is here to help you seek justice.
If you or a loved one were exposed to DCPA (Dacthal) and your baby suffered negative health outcomes, call us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call (800) 277-1193 or complete a short Free Evaluation Form.
If you meet all of the following criteria, you could be eligible to receive compensation in a DCPA pesticide lawsuit:
Dacthal weedkiller lawsuits stem from a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emergency order suspending all uses of DCPA. It’s the first time in 40 years the EPA has used its emergency suspension power to halt the use of a pesticide. This unprecedented action highlights the serious concerns about the herbicide’s safety, particularly for pregnant women and their unborn children. The EPA’s decision was based on mounting evidence that DCPA exposure can cause significant harm, including:
According to a press release issued by the Environmental Working Group, the EPA’s decision to suspend DCPA is long overdue. “For years, EWG and other public health advocates have warned about the serious risks the weedkiller poses to farmworkers, pregnant people and other vulnerable populations,” said EWG Senior Toxicologist Alexis Temkin, Ph.D.
The U.S. Geological Survey provides an interactive map that shows, year by year, where the Dacthal pesticide was used. The below map shows this data of widespread, high DCPA usage across the country in 1996.
The USGS also provides data on the types of crops on which Dacthal/DCPA was used in the U.S. over the years. Vegetables and fruit are the main crop on which this toxic herbicide has been used.
To decide on its Emergency Order, the EPA talked to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to learn how farmers use DCPA and what other options they have. In 2013, the EPA asked AMVAC Chemical Corporation, the only company that makes DCPA, to provide over 20 studies to support the use of Dacthal.
These studies needed to include detailed research on how DCPA affects thyroid development and function in both adults and developing babies. The studies were due by January 2016. Many studies AMVAC submitted between 2013 and 2021 were not enough to meet the EPA’s requirements, and the important thyroid study and others were never submitted.
Dacthal has been in use for over 40 years, primarily on crops like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. Despite its widespread application, significant health concerns have emerged, particularly for pregnant women and their babies. DCPA exposure has been linked to:
Research indicates that DCPA exposure can significantly disrupt fetal thyroid hormone levels, which are crucial for brain development. This disruption can result in long-term effects such as decreased IQ and impaired motor skills. These findings have been supported by studies conducted by the European Union and other regulatory bodies.
The EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, along with other regulatory agencies, has raised alarms about the safety of DCPA. In response to these concerns, Dacthal has been removed from the market in several regions.
The European Union banned use of Dacthal on crops in 2009. Despite these measures, many families are still dealing with the consequences of past exposures.
DCPA is commonly used as a weedkiller in agriculture and residential areas. Pregnant women can be exposed to this harmful chemical.
Once absorbed into the body, DCPA can cross the placental barrier, potentially causing severe damage to the developing fetus. Studies have shown that exposure to DCPA during pregnancy can lead to:
These health concerns can have lifelong implications for affected children and their families.
DCPA, or dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate, is an herbicide commonly marketed under the brand name Dacthal. It is widely used in both agricultural and residential settings to control the growth of weeds. Dacthal is typically applied to:
While Dacthal is effective at controlling weeds, its use comes with significant risks, especially for pregnant women. When applied, DCPA can remain on plants and soil for an extended period, up to 25 days. Understanding these exposure pathways is crucial for protecting your family’s health.
If you or a loved one were exposed to Dacthal weedkiller during pregnancy, and your baby or unborn child experienced negative outcomes, contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call us at (800) 277-1193 or fill out our brief Free Evaluation Form.
Levin Papantonio is a nationally recognized law firm with a proven track record of success in complex litigation cases. Our leadership in major multidistrict litigations (MDLs) speaks to our expertise and commitment to justice in DCPA weedkiller lawsuits:
Our attorneys are co-leading the ongoing Paraquat MDL, fighting for victims who have suffered from Parkinson’s disease due to exposure to this harmful herbicide.
We are at the forefront of the NEC Baby Formula MDL, advocating for families whose premature infants developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) after consuming certain baby formulas.
Levin Papantonio lawyers have been involved in PFAS lawsuits since day one. Our attorneys have successfully secured significant settlements in the PFAS water contamination MDL, holding corporations accountable for contaminating water supplies with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Our attorneys will put this experience to use in investigating your dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate lawsuit and litigating on your behalf.
Choosing a law firm you can trust to handle your DCPA lawsuit might feel like a daunting task. Consider checking for the following characteristics:
Our DCPA lawsuit lawyers have extensive experience in handling product liability birth defects cases, as well as environmental and toxic exposure cases, ensuring you receive the highest quality legal representation.
We understand the profound impact that DCPA exposure can have on families. Our Dacthal lawsuit lawyer team is dedicated to providing compassionate support and pursuing justice on your behalf.
Our history of helping to secure substantial settlements and verdicts–over $80 billion to date–will give you the peace of mind you need during this difficult time.
Our lawyers’ leadership in high-profile MDLs reflect the respect they have earned in the legal community. This leadership also demonstrates our ability to achieve successful outcomes for our clients.
If you or a loved one has been affected by DCPA exposure during pregnancy, do not wait to seek help. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and work towards securing the justice and compensation your family deserves.
We are committed to fighting for families affected by DCPA exposure. Trust us to stand by your side and advocate for the justice you deserve.
Call (800) 277-1193 for a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation, or complete our short Free Evaluation Form.
By clicking the "I agree" and "Submit for Free Evaluation" buttons, I agree to the POLICIES AND DISCLAIMERS, including arbitration provision therein, and consent to receive marketing emails, calls and/or texts, including those made using an automated system and/or artificial/prerecorded voice messages, from or on behalf of Levin Papantonio regarding their services in response to my inquiry at the telephone number(s) provided above, even if currently listed on any state, federal or corporate Do Not Call registry. I understand my consent to receive automated marketing calls/texts is not required as a condition of purchasing any services. However, if I do not consent, then I must call the law firm directly at 800-277-1193 in order to obtain services. I can revoke my consent at any time.
Levin Law