Groundwater Contamination

Groundwater contamination occurs when water from rain, lakes, or streams, soaks into soil and is stored there. Pollution occurs when hazardous substances, such as toxic waste come into contact with the water stored in the soil. The result is contamination of the water.

Another way groundwater contamination may occur is hazardous substances in liquid form soak into the soil and is then washed into the groundwater by rain. This may become a cause of long-term contamination permanently polluting some areas.

Groundwater contamination begins to affect people and animals when it is pumped from the ground, either through man-made or natural processes. This is a common occurrence because many parts of the world will pump groundwater out of the ground as a source of drinking or bathing water. A natural process in which groundwater contamination can reach people and animals is when the groundwater flows into a spring through pathways underground. Animals then drink the contaminated water and are adversely affected. When a human or animal drinks or bathes in contaminated water they are actually eating the organisms that pollute the water, which can cause sickness and possibly death.

Industrial and commercial chemicals such as benzene, mercury, chromium, and trichloroethylene are known to seep into groundwater where they remain until consumed by unwitting victims. The effects of these chemicals can range from cancer, birth defects, chromosomal abnormalities, and leukemia.

Another common source of groundwater contamination is the use of pesticides. While pesticides and herbicides are vital parts of modern agriculture, unfortunately some are just as deadly to human life as they are to the vermin they are designed to eliminate.

Damages caused by groundwater contamination can take years or even decades to appear. Negligent industries count on the prolonged latency period to prevent people from taking the action they need to recover restitution for the pain they suffer. If you or someone you know has suffered due to groundwater contamination, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your condition. Let our dedicated and experienced groundwater contamination attorneys help you get what you deserve. Contact us today.

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