A class action lawsuit is filed on behalf of a group of people suffering from the same situation, usually something related to personal injury. In an individual lawsuit, the individual is treated as such— an individual, whereas in a class action lawsuit, the group is treated as a group. A similar lawsuit, called a mass tort, treats each individual in a group as an individual. Here’s a look at some of the most popular class action (and mass tort) lawsuits— many of them still ongoing— that may affect Illinois residents.
Drugs and Supplements
Baby Formula
Certain Enfamil and Similac baby formula products failed to warn parents/caregivers and pediatricians that formula made with cow’s milk can cause premature babies to develop a serious and potentially fatal gastrointestinal disease called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Anyone whose premature infant developed NEC after consuming Enfamil or Similac can file a lawsuit and receive financial compensation.
Eye Drops
The Delsam Pharma and EzriCare eye drop brands have been linked to their users developing serious eye infections that led to various levels of vision loss. Not only does this eye infection cause vision loss, but the infection can also spread to other parts of the body and result in hospitalization or even death. Those who suffered vision loss and/or hospitalization after developing an infection after using these eye drops may be entitled to compensation.
Talcum Powder
Johnson & Johnson came under fire for their talcum-based powder as it was linked to women developing ovarian cancer after using it. Women who developed ovarian cancer and believe that it was caused by this talcum powder may be able to file a lawsuit and receive financial compensation. This compensation can cover lost wages, treatments, and other medical bills. As of April 2023, Johnson & Johnson has agreed to pay nearly nine billion dollars to resolve these claims.
Environmental Hazards
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Military veterans and their families who lived/worked at the Camp Lejeune military base between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987 may have been exposed to contaminated water. This water contamination has been linked to birth defects, cancer, fatty liver disease, infertility, and many other serious health issues.
Hair Relaxers/Chemical Straighteners
Chemical hair relaxers from the brands Dark & Lovely, Olive Oil, Just for Me, Creme of Nature, and more are under investigation due to multiple women developing uterine or breast cancers, endometriosis, or other reproductive problems. These hair products contain harmful chemicals that can lead to the development of these reproductive issues.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a serious lung disease that is caused by asbestos particles becoming trapped in the lungs and other organs. Asbestos can be found in buildings, but buildings constructed after the 1980s were done so without the use of asbestos. However, many industries (construction, shipping, etc.) still come into contact with it.
Roundup Weedkiller
The popular herbicide from Roundup has been linked to its users developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system. The herbicide includes a chemical called glyphosate, which is considered a carcinogen (a cancer-causing agent). It was announced in June 2020 that $10.9 billion would be paid to resolve these cases.
Medical Devices
Breast Implants
Women who had bio cell saline- or silicone-filled breast implants due to concerns of it causing cancer. Although these cases were consolidated in 2019, the lawsuits only sought the cost of surgery to remove the implants.
CPAP Machines
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines from Philips were recalled in June of 2021 over potential health risks, such as coughing, wheezing, lung damage, and even cancer.
Hernia Mesh
Hernia mesh implants caused patients to experience various complications following their surgery. This included severe pain, serious infections, and other dangerous health-related issues that required a second surgery to replace or completely remove the mesh.
Residents of Illinois that have been a victim of a product recall can call a product liability lawyer for more information and the compensation that they can receive.
Class action lawsuits can be filed against a company if it knew that its product could pose a serious health risk to its consumers. Of course, certain requirements must be met before an individual can file a class action lawsuit. This is why contacting a personal injury lawyer who specializes in product liability/class actions/mass torts is essential. These lawyers have a better understanding of the ins and outs of this type of lawsuit and can help determine which route is best for you.