A much-anticipated Missouri-based lawsuit against Bayer AG will likely be postponed until January of 2020; it was scheduled to begin on August 19, 2019. The case, which is the first of a larger group of 75 others to be set for trial, involves claims that the plaintiff developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after being exposed to the weed killer Roundup®.
The plaintiff stated that she had used the product on her property for over 25 years. Her stepfather, who died of cancer, also used the herbicide around the home where she grew up.
Many eyes are on this case because Monsanto, the original manufacturer of Roundup®, was based in Missouri. People want to see how a jury from the state where the product was made will decide.
Previous Lawsuits in California
Monsanto and Bayer already suffered 3 legal blows in California, where juries in separate cases awarded plaintiffs tens of millions of dollars in damages. The individuals who filed those lawsuits also alleged that they developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after using Roundup® for years. The verdict amounts were for $289 million (later lowered to $78 million), $80 million, and $2 billion (which was cut to $86.7 million).
As a result of the California trials, Bayer, which acquired Monsanto in June of 2018, has been under increased pressure to negotiate settlements in these cases. The company is facing over 18,000 Roundup® lawsuits, with plaintiffs claiming that they were diagnosed with cancer after constant exposure to the product. They also allege that Monsanto failed to adequately warn consumers of the health risks associated with using the weed killer.
Defending the Safety of Glyphosate
Monsanto and Bayer continue to claim that their weed killer, specifically the active ingredient glyphosate, is safe to use. During the California cases, the company presented as evidence research that suggested the substance was not a known carcinogen. In the Missouri trial, it was expected to introduce new testimonies from experts from universities in the state.
Get Trusted Legal Representation from Bertram & Graf, L.L.C.
If you or someone you loved was diagnosed with cancer after using Roundup®, you might be entitled to pursue civil action against the manufacturer. Our attorneys will be dedicated to guiding you through the complex lawsuit process. We will provide personalized and compassionate legal counsel to devise an effective strategy and work toward recovering fair compensation on your behalf.
Schedule your free consultation today by calling us at (888) 398-2277 or contacting us online.