Louisiana Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Louisiana residents are becoming increasingly concerned about the drywall in their homes, which might be leaking toxins and other contaminants into the bedrooms and throughout the house depending on the manufacturer. Drywall consists of panels made of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper. The panels are used to make interior walls and ceilings. This is frightening for people who live in contaminated homes because of the proximity to possible toxins and poisons: literally they are just a few inches away from deadly poisons. This harmful occurence can lead to a variety of health defects from the negligence of people involved in using these toxins in drywall.
Many Louisiana residents have filed complaints in court about the drywall over the past few years. These lawsuits were pressed by those looking to recover the money it would cost to replace their drywall with a safer and healthier version. Since this process involves major construction, the costs are high and these people rightfully felt they should not have to pay for unknowingly being exposed to contaminants by the manufacturer.
Because of the dangers involved, and the damage caused to fixtures and elements of the home, many are wondering how they may find out if they are living in a contaminated home. Those who suspect they have the drywall in their homes should be on the lookout for health symptoms amongst their family that include runny nose, difficulty breathing, and headaches. If you or any of your family members are exhibiting these symptoms, be sure to contact an experienced attorney today. It is imperative that you act now while the courts are dealing with other cases like yours.
In the past couple months, attorneys and individuals throughout Louisiana were unsure as to how the courts would resolve this matter. Fortunately for those exposed to the defective drywall, the recent Louisiana federal district court decision is good news: a partial settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit dealing with the defective Chinese drywall installed in homes between 2004 and 2008.
Under the settlement, the manufacturer of the drywall, Knauf Plasterboard Tianjin, will fund a program to replace drywall in about 300 homes throughout the South, including many homes in Louisiana. Many expect another 3,000 homes to receive similar help. Included in the costs will be relocation expenses and any damages to appliances and wiring which occurred as a result of the defective drywall. If you have discovered Chinese drywall in your home, it is not too late to take action to receive the compensation you deserve. The agreed to settlement will undoubtedly provide a guide for how future legal actions will be handled, meaning you might still be able to be compensated for the injuries you and your family have suffered.
The Berniard Law Firm has experience handling cases like this one. We can help you and your family through this difficult and scary time. Give us a call today for an explanation on your legal rights and how you may receive compensation moving forward in the months to come.