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. While benzene is used in everyday products such as solvents, dyes and paints - those who work in the oil and petroleum industry are at the greatest risk for benzene exposure as 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. Nearly $675,000 was paid to the city of Tempe, Arizona because of benzene-contaminated groudwater, which was because of Unocol (Union Oil of California).

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.

There have been several individuals that have received monetary compensation for their benzene exposure, although states and cities are leading the way as the largest benzene settlement beneficiaries. 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. Medical bills that are incurred because of benzene exposure are commonly paid for through monetary compensation with a settlement.

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. To receive the best care and informaiton, it is advisable to contact an experienced benzene law firm.