Did Your Child Ingest Old Paint?
Lead-based paint was banned many years ago because of its link to brain damage. But lead paint poisoning is still a problem in old apartment buildings and houses across New York City.
Building owners have a legal obligation to remove old lead paint or keep it covered. If state investigators have found high levels of lead in your child's body or you suspect your child has been exposed, contact our law firm today.
Special Knowledge and Experience
Roura & Melamed has recovered compensation in numerous lead paint poisoning lawsuits against NYC apartment building owners and property management companies. See examples of our personal injury verdicts and settlements.
An infant suffered brain damage from ingesting old, peeling lead-based paint in an apartment building. Roura & Melamed won $6 million at trial, which was upheld on appeal. That New York Court of Appeals ruling established important case law that still stands today — the defense cannot use IQ testing of siblings to dispute liability.
The boy in that case recently turned 18. The jury award provided for medical treatment, special care and education services throughout his childhood, and now provides an income to make up for his lasting disabilities from the toxic exposure.
The Effects of Lead Paint Poisoning
As walls are repainted over decades, the thick coats are more prone to chipping, peeling and flaking, which exposes the old lead paint beneath.
Children under age 7 are especially vulnerable. Toddlers and young kids are more likely to put paint chips in their mouth because of the sweet taste — and they are just the right height to come into contact with flaking window ledges.
Lead is absorbed more readily into the brain tissues of babies and young children. It disrupts brain development, leading to various neurological effects, depending on age and the level of exposure:
- Attention deficit disorder (ADD)
- Reading and learning disabilities
- Speech delay or speech impairment
- Inability to concentrate
- Mental retardation
Roura & Melamed pursues compensation for your child's physical or mental limitations, pain and suffering, psychological counseling, and intensive therapy or tutoring.
Free Consultation • Se Habla Español
Lead paint poisoning is heartbreaking. Contact lawyers with a proven record of holding negligent apartment owners accountable. Call 212-227-6821 or e-mail us.
