The right to live in a safe environment is essential to both your physical health and mental well-being. Unfortunately, dangerous substances can leak into your water supply, permeate your air, or contaminate your food. As a result, you may suffer serious health consequences.
If another person or company exposed you to poison, you should not have to bear the burden of your medical expenses and lost wages alone. Negligent defendants have a responsibility to provide fair compensation for the full extent of the losses.
A Michigan poisoning lawyer from Buckfire Law Firm may be able to help you hold the at-fault parties accountable for their actions. Experienced attorneys could investigate the cause of your illness and demand appropriate payments for your injuries.
- Common Types of Poisoning Cases
- Common Injuries from Poisons and Toxic Substances
- Examples of Michigan Poisoning Settlements
- Contact a Michigan Poisoning Attorney
What Are Common Types of Poisons and Toxic Substances?
The list of potential complications from poisoning is nearly endless, and specific symptoms depend on the nature of the substance itself and the length of exposure. Some common poisons and toxic substances include:
- Pesticides and herbicides, such as Roundup
- Household cleaning products
- Bleach
- Glass cleaners
- Carbon monoxide
- Automotive chemicals
- Paints and solvents
- Medicines
- Poorly prepared or contaminated foods
- Recreational drugs
Common Injuries From Poisons and Toxic Substances
Thousands of toxic substances can have a negative impact on human health. Some chemicals are inherently dangerous and can cause severe complications with even brief exposure. Others are safe in small quantities but become dangerous in higher doses.
Below are some common injuries, but not limited to, from poisons and toxic substances:
- Asthma
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Cancer, such as Mesothelioma
- Chemical burns causing skin issues, such as a rash or irritation
- Diarrhea
- Loss of vision
- Respiratory problems
- Neurological disorders
- Organ damage
The effects of poisoning can lead to hospitalization, long-term treatment, or permanent injuries. A Michigan poisoning attorney can help plaintiffs identify the full effect of poisoning on their lives and gather medical evidence to demonstrate the defendant’s negligence.
Examples of Poisoning Cases
Most poisonings are the result of accidents. Even so, the law states that a defendant may still be liable if their careless or reckless actions directly led to the accident. The plaintiffs in these cases must provide evidence that a defendant’s failure to take the appropriate care in the handling or application of toxic substances resulted in their poisoning.
For example, a construction company may use dangerous chemicals to treat wood or other building materials. If their employees negligently handle the substance or overapply it, homeowners or their children may have health complications as a result.
The most common types of poisoning cases include:
- Food poisoning due to unsanitary conditions at a restaurant or contaminated food, such as Coli
- Carbon monoxide
- Lead poisoning
- Drug overdose
In these types of situations, a Michigan poisoning lawyer can help victims pursue a civil claim for damages.
Poisoning Statistics
The bar chart below shows the amount of unintentional injury-related deaths per 100,000 people in the United States in 2022. Poisoning, which includes drug overdoses, is the leading killer by a significant margin.
Carbon Dioxide Poisoning Case Study
A wrongful death lawsuit was filed for a woman volunteering at a local lodge. She went into the basement of the lodge to change a soda pop system.
The system pump was negligently installed and it caused the release of CO2 in the unvented basement.
The woman was overcome with carbon dioxide poisoning. She was discovered passed out in the hospital and died five days later from brain damage.
A lawsuit was filed against both the lodge and the manufacturer. The case settled for $8.16 million.
Examples of Michigan Poisoning Jury Verdicts & Settlements
- $4,313,721.98 jury verdict for a woman who suffered permanent nerve damage due to poisoning.
- $3,500,000 carbon monoxide poisoning settlement against a Detroit apartment complex for a woman who suffered a serious and permanent brain injury.
- $2,080,000 settlement for several occupants of an RV who suffered CO poisoning from a defective generator that was not properly installed.
- $1,400,000 child lead paint poisoning settlement against an apartment complex in Detroit.
- $750,000 wrongful death settlement for carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a defective water heater in a rental property.
Call a Michigan Poisoning Attorney Today
Poisonings can have a serious and long-term effect on your health. Toxic chemical exposure can affect your gastrointestinal system, your lungs, your heart, or your brain. As a result, victims of poisoning may never fully recover.
If another party is responsible for exposing you to a dangerous substance, you may have the right to collect compensation. A successful claim can recover payments for any medical expenses, loss in quality of life, lost earnings, and more.
A Michigan poisoning lawyer from Buckfire Law Firm can help to pursue your case in an effective and timely manner. Call today to schedule a free consultation.
Michigan Poisoning References and Resources
- National Poison Center
- National Institute of Health
- Center for Disease Control Poisoning Information
Legally reviewed by:
Lawrence J. Buckfire, J.D., Lead Trial Attorney at Buckfire Law
Lawrence J. Buckfire, J.D. has over 30 years of experience specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and attended Wayne State University School of Law. Lawrence has been named a Super Lawyer, U.S. News Best Lawyer, and in The National Trial Lawyers-Top 100 Trial Lawyers.
Date of Review: June, 2025
The health department inspector told me that Larry Buckfire was the best lead poisoning lawyer in Michigan. His greatest concern was the future financial security of my child and I am grateful for his efforts.
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By: Carol R.

Client Description: The health department inspector told me that Larry Buckfire was the best lead poisoning lawyer in Michigan. His greatest concern was the future financial security of my child and I am grateful for his efforts.
Rating: ★★★★★ 5 / 5 stars