Chemical Exposure & Carbon Monoxide

NYC Attorneys Helping Firefighters After Chemical Exposure & Carbon Monoxide Injuries

A fire is a frightening environment, but often the greatest dangers cannot be seen. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, tasteless and odorless gas that can cause sudden death due to asphyxia or heart attack. Other chemicals may also be present in the air, depending on the materials the fire consumes. Too often, a person’s bad conduct increases the risks of firefighter exposure to toxic gases. When building tenants store chemicals illegally or negligently, they create extraordinary risks for firefighters. At Barasch & McGarry, our attorneys want you to have every benefit of the law. If the circumstances of your injury suggest that a violation of the law or negligence resulted in harm to you, we will fight to see that you are fully compensated.

Your Right To Recover For Legal Violations And Negligence

When landlords and tenants behave negligently in a way that causes a firefighter to be exposed to and injured by toxic chemicals or carbon monoxide, the firefighter can sue for damages under General Obligations Law § 11-106. For instance, if negligent maintenance of gas pipes causes an explosion that releases toxic chemicals, a firefighter can sue the responsible party for a resulting injury.

If a landlord or tenant violated the law, for example in the way they stored toxic chemicals on the property, and the violation caused the firefighter to be exposed to and injured by toxic chemicals, the firefighter can sue for damages under General Municipal Law § 205-a.

Our attorneys know firefighter law and we are determined to explore every legal avenue, so we can help you recover the maximum amount of compensation possible.

It was a pleasure to work with Barasch & McGarry. We are also so appreciative of the time you personally spent with us sharing your knowledge and information that can benefit us today and in the future. You are truly part of the FDNY Family!

R.B.
FDNY Firefighter

Consequences Of High Levels Of CO In Firefighting Environments

Although most of us associate carbon monoxide with car exhaust, CO forms wherever fuels, wood products or carbon-containing materials burn. Thus, a typical firefighting environment for a NYC firefighter has levels of CO sufficient to cause a range of effects from mild neurological impairment to asphyxia. Given the level of physical exertion for an active firefighter, collapse and sudden death can occur without warning.

Disability Claims For Chronic Exposure Leading To Occupational Illness

Chronic exposure to low levels of CO can cause a progression of neurological symptoms, including headache, confusion, and decreased tolerance to exercise resulting in rapid heartbeat, arrhythmia and chest pain. If properly diagnosed, this level of occupational illness can qualify a firefighter for a disability pension.

Contact Our NYC Firefighter Lawyers To Discuss Your Rights

A fire is a deadly environment with toxins that can cause acute injury or chronic illness. If you are suffering the effects of exposure to carbon monoxide or other deadly chemicals, Barasch & McGarry can provide the skilled legal assistance you need.