Did you know that the toxic effects of benzene exposure can show up as late as 29 years after the first exposure?

Clearly, the health risks of occupational or other benzene exposure are grave. Benzene, classified as a "Class A" carcinogen by the Environmental Protective Agency (EPA), is an extremely harmful chemical that is responsible for diseases such as Hodgkin's disease, various respiratory and skin disorders, and even leukemia.

Though benzene has a strong odor, it is clear and colorless. It is contained primarily in paints, solvents and dyes, and occupational risk is greater in the oil and petroleum industry, where benzene is used in refineries. Exposure to benzene is also possible in printing presses and the paper and pulp industries.

Public and Private Benzene Claims Collect Big Compensation Dollars

If you have been injured by benzene exposure, take heart - benzene litigation is a growing field and has resulted in several multi-million dollar lawsuits in recent years. The biggest civil settlement ever in Arizona history was in a benzene case in which Unocal (Union Oil of California) agreed to pay $675,000 for benzene groundwater contamination in Tempe, Arizona.

In December 2001, Exxon-Mobil was ordered to pay $8.2 million in civil penalties and additional monetary damages due to benzene groundwater pollution in New York City.

But cities and states have not been the only beneficiaries of large benzene settlements - individuals have also made inroads into compensation for benzene exposure and injury. The largest settlements have gone to the families of victims who died of benzene-related illnesses. For example, Mobil was forced to pay over $6 million to the family of a 68-year-old man who died of benzene-related leukemia.

Don't Wait Too Long to Pursue Your Benzene Claim

If you have been stricken with a benzene-related illness or injury, don't wait until you are on your death bed to collect your rightful damages and compensation for toxic benzene exposure. Contacting an experienced benzene/environmental toxin litigator can help give you access to the compensation you deserve. Compensation which can help defray the medical bills and pain and suffering associated with benzene and its many toxic effects.

Clearly, no amount of money can ever restore health or make up for the years of suffering experienced at the hands of occupational or other benzene exposure, but pursuing a benzene claim can have more than monetary benefits. It can convince companies to be more responsible about the sale and promotion of products containing the toxic carcinogen benzene.

Remember to seek medical attention immediately if you are suffering from benzene exposure.

The short- and long-term effects of benzene can be devastating to your health and your family's security, so don't put off that doctor's visit if you suspect your recent health troubles are due to benzene poisoning. Unfortunately, benzene's effects are insidious and often hard to detect. It's up to you to seek appropriate medical attention and, if possible, pursue your benzene-related claim with a competent and experienced legal advisor.