Louisiana’s industrial legacy has long been tied to refineries, chemical plants, and shipping facilities that line the Mississippi River and the Gulf Coast. While these industries power the state’s economy, they also leave behind serious risks airborne pollutants, contaminated water, and toxic chemicals that can cause cancer and other lifelong illnesses.
At the Gertler Law Firm, we represent workers, residents, and families across Louisiana who have been harmed by toxic exposure, environmental contamination, or hazardous chemicals. Based in New Orleans, our attorneys have handled major environmental and product liability claims for over 50 years, standing up to large corporations and insurance companies that put profit over public safety.
Holding Companies Accountable for Environmental Harm
Toxic exposure can occur in many forms through the air, soil, water, or workplace. In Louisiana, communities near industrial sites have experienced decades of exposure to harmful chemicals linked to cancer, respiratory disease, and organ damage. Our firm has represented individuals and families impacted by:
- Asbestos exposure: In shipyards, refineries, and construction sites
- Herbicide and pesticide exposure: Including Roundup and similar chemicals
- Industrial spills and plant emissions: Near refineries and chemical manufacturing facilities
- Unsafe drinking water: Contaminated with heavy metals or volatile compounds
- Household product toxins: Such as solvents and cleaning agents with carcinogenic ingredients
Gertler Law Firm’s environmental practice combines local knowledge of Louisiana’s industrial landscape with national experience in complex mass tort and product liability litigation.
Toxic Exposure and Cancer in Louisiana
Understanding the Link Between Chemicals and Cancer
Scientific studies have linked numerous industrial and agricultural substances to serious illnesses. Exposure to benzene, asbestos, formaldehyde, herbicides, and heavy metals can cause cancers of the lungs, liver, kidneys, and blood. Many victims worked in industrial or maritime jobs without proper protective equipment or warnings.
Our attorneys work with medical and toxicology experts to establish clear causation between exposure and diagnosis, ensuring claims are supported by sound evidence.
Common Locations and Industries Involved
- Refineries and petrochemical plants in Baton Rouge, Norco, and St. Charles Parish
- Shipyards and ports along the Mississippi River and the Gulf Coast
- Industrial corridors in Jefferson, Plaquemines, and St. Bernard Parishes
- Agricultural regions exposed to commercial herbicides and fertilizers
For decades, Louisiana workers and residents have faced exposure risks that were preventable with proper safety protocols and corporate transparency. Gertler Law Firm fights to hold these entities accountable.
Types of Environmental and Toxic Exposure Claims
Our attorneys handle a wide range of toxic and environmental injury cases, including:
- Asbestos and mesothelioma
- Roundup and herbicide exposure
- Benzene and chemical plant emissions
- Groundwater or soil contamination from industrial waste
- Occupational exposure to carcinogens in refineries and factories
Each case requires extensive scientific review and a clear understanding of Louisiana and federal environmental law, including regulations enforced by the EPA, OSHA, and Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ).
How Louisiana Law Protects Victims of Toxic Exposure
Negligence and Product Liability
Victims may pursue claims against:
- Manufacturers of dangerous substances or products
- Employers who failed to provide protective gear or warnings
- Property owners or contractors responsible for environmental contamination
These claims often fall under product liability or negligence law, depending on whether the exposure occurred through defective products, unsafe workplaces, or environmental release.
Statute of Limitations
In most toxic exposure cases, Louisiana’s one-year prescription period applies from the time the injury or illness is discovered. Because many illnesses develop slowly, early consultation with an attorney ensures the claim is filed within allowable time limits.
Proving Causation
Causation in toxic exposure cases is complex. Our firm collaborates with experts in medicine, industrial hygiene, and epidemiology to demonstrate that a defendant’s conduct directly contributed to illness or death.
How Gertler Law Firm Handles Environmental and Toxic Exposure Cases
In-Depth Investigation
We begin by reviewing the client’s work and residential history to identify potential exposure sources. Our attorneys obtain employment, environmental, and medical records to trace exposure patterns and responsible parties.
Expert Coordination
We work with nationally recognized experts in environmental science, toxicology, and oncology to build clear, evidence-based claims. This scientific foundation strengthens settlement negotiations and trial arguments alike.
Trial-Tested Advocacy
With nearly five decades of litigation experience, Louis L. Gertler and Mike Gertler have led and collaborated on major toxic exposure and class action cases across Louisiana and beyond. Their record includes successful representation in asbestos, herbicide, and industrial contamination matters.
Personal Commitment
We understand that toxic exposure cases affect more than health; they affect entire communities. Our firm ensures that each client receives direct attention, regular updates, and representation that prioritizes both justice and dignity.
The Cost of Toxic Exposure
Environmental illnesses often require long-term medical care, including chemotherapy, surgery, and ongoing monitoring. Victims and families may also face lost income, relocation costs, and emotional distress.
The Gertler Law Firm seeks full compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Loss of income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Costs related to relocation or property damage
- Loss of companionship in fatal exposure cases
We fight to ensure that corporate polluters and negligent manufacturers do not force Louisiana families to bear these burdens.
Why Louisiana Clients Trust Gertler Law Firm
- Over 50 years of toxic exposure and environmental litigation experience
- Proven leadership in mass torts, class actions, and product liability
- Deep understanding of Louisiana’s industrial and environmental landscape
- Local representation with national reach for large-scale claims
- Compassionate counsel focused on clients’ long-term health and recovery
Our attorneys have earned respect throughout Louisiana for their thorough preparation and unwavering commitment to holding corporations accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toxic Exposure & Environmental Claims
What types of toxic exposure cases does your firm handle?
We handle cases involving asbestos, herbicides like Roundup, industrial chemical emissions, and contaminated soil or groundwater throughout Louisiana.
Who can be held responsible for toxic exposure?
Manufacturers, employers, contractors, and property owners who allowed unsafe conditions or failed to warn of hazards may be liable for resulting injuries or illness.
How long do I have to file a toxic exposure claim in Louisiana?
Most claims must be filed within one year of discovering the illness or exposure. Early legal guidance helps preserve your rights and gather key evidence.
What illnesses are commonly linked to toxic exposure?
Cancer, mesothelioma, respiratory disease, neurological damage, and organ failure are among the most common conditions associated with chemical exposure.
What compensation can I recover?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and if the exposure caused death, damages for surviving family members.
Do I owe attorney fees if we don’t win?
No. The Gertler Law Firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients owe nothing unless compensation is recovered.
Contact a New Orleans Environmental & Toxic Exposure Lawyer
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer or an illness caused by toxic chemicals or environmental contamination, contact us today. Our attorneys represent victims across Louisiana in cases involving industrial exposure, hazardous substances, and corporate negligence.
Call our New Orleans office or complete our online form for a confidential consultation. We will review your situation, explain your rights, and take immediate action to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.