In August 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an emergency ban on Dacthal, a widely used herbicide. For decades, agricultural workers and communities nationwide trusted Dacthal to protect their crops, but mounting evidence has linked exposure to this chemical to dangerous health risks. This includes severe birth defects and developmental issues in children whose mothers encountered the chemical during pregnancy. A Dacthal pesticide exposure attorney in California can help if you or a loved one have been harmed by herbicide exposure.
What Is Dacthal?
Dacthal, also known as dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA), is an herbicide used to prevent weed growth in vegetable crops and ornamental gardens. The chemical works by disrupting cell division in emerging weed roots, effectively stopping unwanted plants before they can sprout. Dacthal was used in many states, including California, Washington, and Texas, to treat several types of crops, such as:
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Onions
- Kale
- Leeks
- Radishes
- Strawberries
- Turnips
Birth Defects Associated with Dacthal Exposure
Dacthal can have severe effects on reproductive health, especially for farmworkers or residents who are pregnant at the time of exposure. The EPA found that Dacthal disrupts critical fetal thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy, leading to catastrophic developmental effects.
When a pregnant mother is exposed to Dacthal frequently or at significant levels, the hormone disruptions can trigger a cascade of problems that can permanently alter a child’s life, such as:
- Low birth weight that threatens infant survival
- Impaired brain development that affects lifelong cognitive function
- Motor skill deficits that may be permanent
- Developmental delays affecting multiple body systems
- Neurological issues that affect behavior and learning
These issues frequently require ongoing therapeutic intervention, medical care, and special educational support.
Other Side Effects of Dacthal Exposure
Beyond reproductive harm, Dacthal exposure can put agricultural workers and nearby residents at risk of a number of serious health problems. Even at relatively low levels, state and federal regulators have connected Dacthal to severe health complications including liver damage, thyroid problems, and a higher risk of certain cancers. They may also suffer permanent organ damage or acute toxicity, especially when exposed via water contamination or direct skin contact.
Were You Affected by Dacthal? Take Legal Action Today
If you or your loved ones have suffered health impacts potentially linked to Dacthal exposure, you may qualify for legal action. Victims of this dangerous herbicide have been filing lawsuits against AMVAC Chemical Corporation, the sole manufacturer of Dacthal and DCPA. These claims hold the manufacturer accountable for the destruction that its products have caused and provide compensation to help victims and their families rebuild their lives.
By filing a Dacthal exposure lawsuit, you can recover compensation to help pay for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Specialized rehabilitation or therapy for you or your child
- Disability accommodations and home/vehicle modifications
- Loss of income or future earning potential
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering due to the health effects
- Loss of quality of life sustained by you or your child
These claims can be challenging to handle alone, which is why you need an attorney on your side. Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC can help you fight against chemical manufacturers and recover the compensation that you deserve.
For years, our firm has stood firm against powerful corporations and will not rest until you obtain the justice that you deserve. Contact Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC at (800) 220-0984 for a free, confidential consultation and begin your journey to justice.