More than 550 people in the area near the Love Canal landfill have filed notices indicating their intent to join a lawsuit alleging toxic contamination of the area due to the landfill. The lawsuit alleges that the Niagara Falls-area landfill has created a “public health catastrophe” and workplace hazard for many people who work and live in the area.
Filing a public notice of claim is a step that is required before plaintiffs can bring suit against a government agency in state court in New York. A public notice of claim is intended to notify government defendants that individuals are planning to file claims in court against them.
The existing lawsuit was filed in 2012 and seeks $113 million in damages for illnesses, damage to property and other damages allegedly incurred by local workers and residents as a result of toxic contamination from the Love Canal landfill.
Although government agencies deny that there is any contamination, the plaintiffs and many other area residents who filed the public notices of claim allege that they suffer from conditions including birth defects, chronic headaches and respiratory ailments as a result of contamination from the nearby landfill. The plaintiffs also allege that their homes are unable to be sold due to the close proximity of the landfill.
Those who suffer negative effects caused by other parties can seek recourse within the legal system. Even government agencies must answer for any wrongdoing that has harmed other people. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can help individuals harmed on account of a negligent party seek compensation for medical expenses and pain and suffering, among other attendant expenses.
Source: The Buffalo News, “More Than 550 Notices of Claim Have Been Filed in the Love Canal Lawsuit,” Dan Herbeck, Feb. 27, 2013