Bronx Sisters Secure $1.75 Million Settlement from Landlord Over Lead Poisoning Case

In a significant legal victory, two young sisters from the Bronx have been awarded a settlement of $1.75 million due to lead poisoning caused by their landlord's negligence. This case underscores the ongoing issue of lead exposure in residential properties, particularly in an area where such incidents remain a public health concern.

The lawsuit was initiated in the New York State Supreme Court, Bronx County, and it highlighted the severe impacts of lead exposure on children. The plaintiffs, aged two and three during the incidents, displayed alarming blood lead levels—21 and 6 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL)—which far exceed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reference level of 3.5 µg/dL. The incessant exposure to lead-based paint hazards in their home led to significant developmental delays that the sisters will need special educational support to overcome.

The settlement not only compensates for the children's suffering but also aims to ensure they have access to necessary medical care and educational opportunities. The Frankel Law Firm, which represented the sisters, emphasized the importance of maintaining safe, lead-free environments, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, who are most significantly affected by lead poisoning.

The lawsuit accused the landlord of failing to adhere to New York City’s Local Law 1 of 2004. This law demands rigorous protocols for inspecting and remediating lead-based paint hazards in homes inhabited by young children. The difficulty in ensuring compliance with such regulations often falls on the landlords, and in this case, the property owner was found wanting.

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene confirmed the presence of hazardous lead paint in the apartment, reinforcing the claims of the plaintiffs. Reuven Frankel, the attorney representing the family, stated, "This settlement represents justice for the sisters whose lives were disrupted by preventable lead exposure. Landlords bear a legal and moral responsibility to provide safe housing, and failure to do so must come with consequences."

Settling the matter transpired through intensive negotiations at a private mediation session. This outcome not only alleviates the immediate financial burdens on the plaintiffs but also fortifies their future wellbeing as they navigate the challenges brought forth by their condition.

Lead poisoning is an ongoing public health crisis, especially in older buildings where lead paint is prevalent. Even low-level lead exposure can lead to lifelong disabilities, including learning and behavioral issues. The settlement will go a long way in providing resources for the children's ongoing medical care, educational support, and any future needs stemming from their lead-induced injuries.

For parents vigilant about their children's health, recognizing the symptoms of lead poisoning is crucial. Signs may include subtle developmental delays, concentration difficulties, and other behavioral problems that can often be mistaken for unrelated health issues.

Families who suspect that their children may have been exposed to lead hazards are encouraged to seek legal guidance. The Frankel Law Firm offers free, confidential consultations to address concerns about potential lead exposure in living environments.

About The Frankel Law Firm

With nearly five decades of experience, The Frankel Law Firm has represented numerous families affected by lead poisoning across New York. The firm is renowned for establishing crucial legal precedents, including landmark cases that mandate landlords uphold stringent safety standards for lead exposure, regardless of whether they are aware that children reside on the premises. Through relentless advocacy, they have secured millions of dollars in compensation for affected families, reinforcing protections for New York City’s vulnerable populations against the threat of lead poisoning.

The firm extends its services throughout various boroughs in New York, representing families facing similar challenges, thereby contributing to wider public health and safety efforts in the region.