Investigation Reveals Millions of Americans At Risk for Lead Poisoning

Americans were alerted to the dangers of lead poisoning when the Flint, Michigan crisis surfaced last year, but the problem actually spans far beyond the Flint community. Four million Americans might be exposed to lead poisoning via drinking water, according to a USA TODAY investigation.

The investigation revealed that small utility companies are not subject to the same federal regulations as large companies that serve more populated areas. These small utilities that service only a few thousand people are exempt from federal safety standards that prevent lead contamination—leaving many small communities exposed to lead poisoning.

 

How widespread is the problem?

According to the investigation, around 100,000 Americans get their drinking water from utilities where lead was discovered and the water has gone untreated. Moreover, roughly 4 million Americans get their water from small utilities that either skipped drinking water safety tests or failed to conduct the tests properly.

The leniency toward these small systems when it comes to testing puts millions of Americans at risk for toxic lead poisoning. Those most likely to be affected are members of rural, poor and post-industrial communities.

 

What are the dangers of lead poisoning?

According to the Mayo Clinic, lead poisoning can cause a variety of issues. Some symptoms are immediate, like fatigue, vomiting, abdominal pain and constipation. Other complications are long-term, including developmental delays, learning difficulties and mood disorders.

“All Americans—not just those in large and affluent communities—deserve to have access to safe drinking water. It’s unacceptable that millions of Americans are at risk of lead poisoning,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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