Exposure to toxic mold presents considerable hazards to both homeowners and renters, resulting in property damage and detrimental health consequences. If you have been impacted by toxic mold, you might be contemplating your legal options. This blog will explore the viability of litigation for toxic mold exposure in Florida and how our committed Manatee County Slip and Fall Lawyers can assist you in pursuing appropriate legal remedies.
What is “Toxic Mold”?
Mold, a pervasive type of fungi, can be found everywhere. It often causes extensive property damage and requires expensive remediation. Beyond property damage, mold exposure can also negatively impact your health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists several effects linked to hold exposure, such as:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Infections
- Asthma symptoms
- Lung damage
While there are over a thousand types of indoor mold, moderate levels in homes, establishments, and workplaces usually don’t pose a significant health risk. Most mold-related health problems only occur when mold concentrations are incredibly high.
Some molds are classified as “toxigenic,” meaning they can produce tiny toxic molecules called “mycotoxins” under certain conditions. Mycotoxins are typically spread through mold spores, which can result in devastating health issues. Unlike common mold, toxigenic mold sare less common. Two notable examples are Stachybotrys chartarum and Aspergillus.
What Steps Should I Take If I’ve Been Exposed to Toxic Mold in Florida?
If you believe you have been exposed to toxic mold, it’s imperative to understand the actions you must take for safeguarding your rights and constructing a robust legal claim. Initiate the process by meticulously documenting the contamination. If feasible, capture photographic and video evidence of mold within your residence or property, noting any discernible damage.
Prioritize your well-being by promptly seeking medical attention for any symptoms you may be experiencing. Ensure comprehensive documentation of your medical records pertinent to your condition. This will serve to substantiate the link between your injuries and the toxic mold exposure.
Subsequently, you should formally notify the responsible party, apprising your landlord, property manager, or other relevant authority of the contamination and the necessary remediation. Consult with a knowledgeable attorney, as they can examine the merits of your case, delineate your legal recourse, and navigate you through the complex legal procedures involved in seeking compensation for your losses.
How Do I Prove Liability?
To establish liability for injuries sustained from toxic mold exposure, you must demonstrate that the responsible party for the property neglected their duty of care in preventing or rectifying the mold issue. Subsequently, you need to prove a direct correlation between your injuries and the mold exposure. Finally, you must show quantifiable damages, such as medical expenses, lost income, or property damage. If successful, you may be eligible for various forms of compensation for the damages you have incurred.
For inquiries regarding your legal rights concerning toxic mold exposure, please contact an experienced attorney at Becker & Lindauer, LLC.
