Verizon, the major telecommunications company, is facing a proposed class action suit from its shareholders after allegedly failing to disclose potential environmental and health risks associated with its lead-wrapped cables. These cables are found all across the country, and may pose health risks to people who live in areas where they are located. Verizon has said that it is currently testing these cables to assess potential risks, but denies any wrongdoing.
Who is Verizon?
Verizon is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world, making more than $130 billion every year from its various goods and services. Among other things, it provides cell phones and cell phone service, as well as landlines, cable television, and internet access to its customers. It operates all across the United States, and employs approximately 117,000 people.
Why is Verizon Being Sued?
Verizon is being sued by its shareholders after it, and other major telecommunications companies, were alleged to have concealed the potential environmental and health risks posed by fiber optic cables that are insulated by a lead coating. The company’s stock dropped dramatically when the news hit, as it indicated substantial potential liability for the company. Shareholders accuse the company of deliberately hiding these environmental and health risks to prevent the stock price from dropping, defrauding them in the process.
What Are the Dangers of These Lead-Wrapped Cables?
The concern that people have about these cables is that they may be resulting in people getting exposed to lead. Of particular concern are buried cables which may be leaching lead into the soil, which in turn may contaminate groundwater and cause lead poisoning. People who are exposed to toxic levels of lead can experience a number of health problems, including neurological problems, behavioral issues, and developmental disorders in children.
What Should You Do?
If you or someone you love may have been exposed to lead, you should speak to a doctor as soon as possible for testing and treatment. You should also consider speaking to a lawyer with experience handling environmental exposure claims. They can help you to come up with a legal strategy that can protect your rights and give you the best possible outcome to your case.
Williams Cedar is a law firm dedicated to helping clients with personal injury, environmental law, and civil rights cases. We specialize in assisting clients who have been injured due to exposure to environmental toxins, including veterans and their loved ones. If you need legal assistance due to toxic exposure or other related matters, please give us a call at our New Jersey and Pennsylvania offices at (215) 557-0099, or visit our contact page.