Toxic Coal Ash

Coal ash and fly ash contain high levels of toxic heavy metals like arsenic, beryllium, chromium, lead and mercury, which can cause birth defects and cancer. Coal ash is the name for waste left behind when finely-ground coal is burned to produce electricity. Fly ash is a type of coal ash made of very tiny particles that are carried up by exhaust gases.

Learn more about coal ash and fly ash, why it is dangerous to human health and about what you can do if your child may have an injury or birth defect caused by exposure to coal ash. Our lawyers are dedicated to helping families harmed by exposure to toxic substances.

How does exposure to coal ash or fly ash cause birth defects?

The heavy metals in coal ash and fly ash are teratogenic, meaning that they cause birth defects. When coal ash is dumped onto the ground or into water the heavy metal toxins contained in coal ash can leach into the soil and groundwater. This is of particular concern for communities that draw their drinking water from wells. Likewise, the tiny particles of fly ash become effortlessly airborne, creating a toxic dust that is easily inhaled. When a pregnant woman is exposed to soil, groundwater or air contaminated by coal ash or fly ash, the heavy metal toxins can harm her developing baby and cause birth defects.

What birth defects can be caused by exposure to coal ash and fly ash?

During pregnancy, all of the bodily systems of the fetus are developing rapidly. Exposure to toxins can disrupt this growth and destroy the process of normal human development. Sometimes these birth defects can be so severe that the baby is stillborn or survives for only a short time after birth. Some of the birth defects that have been linked to coal and fly ash exposure include:

• Cranial defects
• Missing or shortened limbs
• Organ malformation
• Facial abnormalities

How can you help my family?

Our lawyers work with highly-qualified scientific and medical professionals to determine if the birth defect is related to a parent's exposure to coal ash. If your child has birth defects caused by exposure to toxic coal ash, he or she may have a claim against a company responsible for that exposure. Email us for a free case evaluation or call us at 800.226.9880 to discuss your options.