Trusted Pennsylvania Lead Poisoning Lawyers Protecting Families

Lead poisoning is a serious health threat that can affect Pennsylvania residents. When property owners, municipalities or water suppliers fail to maintain safe water systems, dangerous levels of lead can leach into drinking water through deteriorating pipes, putting you and your loved ones at risk.

Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, advocates for individuals and families affected by lead poisoning. Our attorneys understand the devastating impact that lead exposure can have on your health and your future, especially when it affects children. With our proven track record in personal injury cases and commitment to our clients, we work tirelessly to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Understanding The Health Risks And Symptoms Of Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning is dangerous because there is no safe level of exposure. While lead can affect anyone, children and pregnant women face the greatest risks from contaminated water sources. Symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain and nausea
• Headaches and fatigue
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle and joint pain

Short-term exposure can lead to:

• Memory problems and difficulty concentrating
• Digestive issues (constipation or diarrhea)
• High blood pressure
• Erratic mood changes, irritability or depression
• Muscle weakness and tingling sensations

Lead poisoning can also lead to lifelong health problems such as:

• Permanent brain and nervous system damage
• Kidney dysfunction
• Fertility problems and pregnancy complications
• Developmental delay in children
• Hearing loss
• Bone and tooth deterioration

If you suspect lead exposure through your water supply, seek immediate medical attention. Our Pennsylvania lead poisoning attorneys recognize the serious, long-term consequences these health issues can have on families across Chester, Montgomery and Delaware counties. We can help you explore your legal options while you focus on your family’s health and recovery.

What Are The Common Causes Of Lead Contamination?

While modern regulations limit lead content in new plumbing materials, older Pennsylvania homes – especially those built before 1986 – still have infrastructure that puts residents at risk.

The primary sources of lead contamination in drinking water include:

• Aging lead service lines connecting homes to main water lines
• Old brass or chrome-plated brass faucets
• Outdated plumbing fixtures and solder
• Faulty pipes, specifically deteriorating galvanized iron pipes
• Corroded plumbing materials

Lead enters drinking water through a process called corrosion, where metal gradually dissolves from old pipes and fixtures. This problem becomes more severe when water is highly acidic or has low mineral content. The risk increases the longer water remains in contact with lead-containing materials, particularly in older homes.

Identifying Lead Contamination In Your Water Supply

Lead typically enters drinking water through home plumbing materials. Even newer homes with “lead-free” plumbing may contain up to 8% lead in their fixtures. The most reliable way to identify lead in your water is to have your water tested by a state-certified laboratory.

Any lead level above zero poses health risks. If testing reveals lead levels at or above 15 parts per billion (ppb), your water system requires immediate attention. Our attorneys can help you interpret these water quality reports and how they might help your case.

Legal Responsibilities And Regulations For Lead In Drinking Water

Both the federal and state Safe Drinking Water Act spell out the responsibility of water suppliers, local governments and property owners in keeping drinking water safe, including:

• Testing water regularly for lead
• Telling residents about test results within 30 days
• Starting public education programs if lead levels are too high
• Treating water to prevent lead contamination
• Sending annual water quality reports
• Keeping water treatment systems working properly
• Fixing problems quickly when lead levels become unsafe

Since 1991, property owners must use lead-free materials when building or fixing any plumbing that carries drinking water. They also need to let water suppliers test their water if their property is chosen as a test location.

If these safety rules aren’t followed and lead contamination occurs, residents may have the right to sue the parties responsible. Our attorneys at Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, understand these laws and can help assess whether you have grounds to file a lawsuit.

Steps To Take If You Suspect Lead Poisoning

If you think your water might contain lead, taking quick action can protect your family’s health. Here are important steps you can take if you suspect contamination:

• Run your water for 15-30 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking
• Use only cold water for drinking, cooking and making baby formula
• Contact your water supplier for a water quality report
• Get your water tested by a state-certified laboratory
• Stop drinking tap water until you get test results
• Keep children and pregnant women away from potentially contaminated water
• Document any symptoms or health concerns

Remember that boiling water does not remove lead. In fact, it can make lead levels higher. Make sure to talk to your health care provider right away about blood lead testing. This is especially important for children under six years old and pregnant women. Your doctor can check blood lead levels and recommend appropriate medical care if needed.

If you need immediate legal help understanding your rights or taking action against responsible parties, our attorneys are ready to assist you.

Legal Options For Victims Of Lead Poisoning

When lead in drinking water harms your family’s health, you have the right to pursue compensation from those responsible for the problem. Depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the extent of damages, the compensation should cover:

• Medical testing costs
• Treatment expenses
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Alternative water supplies
• Pain and suffering
• Ongoing health care needs
• Changes to your home’s water system

Our attorneys at Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, can help determine who is responsible for the lead contamination and guide you through the process of filing a claim.

Contact Our Lead Contamination Attorneys Today

When facing lead contamination issues in your drinking water, you need lawyers who understand both your concerns and the legal process. At Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, we explain your options clearly and guide you through every step, helping you make informed decisions during this challenging time.

We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we win your case. Our approach focuses on achieving your objectives efficiently while providing the support and guidance you need. Call 610-314-7066 or fill out our online form to schedule your free initial consultation. Let us help you explore your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.