Officials with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) are facing tough questions and at least one lawsuit over allegations of creating a health emergency by allowing lead paint chips to fall from some of their train stations.
In this issue, we’ll talk about what’s going on.
The Case at a Glance
A group of residents in Queens living near the No. 7 line have sued the MTA over lead paint on the elevated tracks.
After a local painters union discovered the falling chips, the chips were tested and found to be nearly 50 times the allowable levels of lead.
The presence of the dangerous chips, according to once councilman, should hardly have been a surprise. The councilman, who said he had asked the MTA for new paint in the past, says he was told it would happen in 2015 or 2016.
The councilman later confirmed that the trestle had not been painted in 35 years.
Who is at Highest Risk for Developing Lead Poisoning?
Because they are prone to putting things in their mouths, children are at the highest risk exposure to lead poisoning. The poisoning has been documented to severely affect the mental and physical development of children and can even prove to be fatal.
Adults who are elderly or have weakened immune symptoms are also at risk of developing serious condition from exposure to lead poisoning.
How You Can Recognize Lead Poisoning in Those Close To You
The effects of lead poisoning are gradual, making it difficult to recognize.
In children, noticeable symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Weight loss
- Learning difficulties
- Fatigue
- Irritability
Symptoms of lead poisoning in elderly adults include:
- Decline in cognitive abilities
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
- Joint pains
- Numbness or tingling sensation in extremities
If Your Child or Loved One Has Been Exposed to Lead Paint, Call The Fitzgerald Law Firm
Since 1993, The Fitzgerald Law Firm has represented hundreds of young children exposed to lead paint poisoning, and have brought to justice landlords and residential managers who have failed to maintain safe living conditions.
If you feel you’ve been exposed to lead paint poisoning, we want to talk with you. Contact The Fitzgerald Law Firm today.
The first consultation is always free, so call us at 800-323-9900.