Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Linked To Weed Killer

Whether the disease at issue is non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma or something else, such as a form of leukemia, diagnosis is critical not only to a Roundup® user’s health but also the course of a potential lawsuit. Indeed, you should see a doctor at the first sign of any glyphosate-related health problems—for your health and for any potential lawsuit.

Diagnosis can be central to a weed-killer case in several ways, including as it relates to the statute of limitations. A statute of limitations is a law that sets a time limit on the right to file a lawsuit.

In cases involving herbicides, the point at which the person knew or should have known that the illness was related to glyphosate is typically when the statute-of-limitations clock starts. This point is often the date on which the plaintiff was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma or another condition.

Consulting a lawyer as soon as reasonably possible is crucial to protecting the right to sue and determining whether any statute-of-limitations exceptions apply.

Diagnosis also goes straight to the nature and extent of a plaintiff’s losses, called ''damages.'' A glyphosate case almost always involves:

• economic damages, which include the cost of medical treatment, lost income, and other quantifiable losses, and
• noneconomic damages, which have to do with pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and similar, more subjective consequences of the plaintiff's health problems.

Some lawyers will arrange for health assessments for potential clients whose use of glyphosate-based products has been extensive. Other times attorneys will order medical records from the potential client’s doctor or hospital and send the material to medical experts for evaluation.

If you have a case and it gets to the point of a deposition or even trial, the defense will ask you about your health generally, your glyphosate-related health problems, your diagnosis, and your treatment. You don't need to prove that your diagnosis is correct or even understand the medical details; your lawyer will guide you and expert witnesses will address those subjects.