Table of contents: Exide Lead Pollution: Vernon Property Owners Face New Lawsuits
By: Jennifer F. Novak
Are you concerned about the ongoing legal battles surrounding the Exide lead pollution crisis? You are not alone. Across the region, both corporations and everyday consumers are dealing with unexpected legal threats. Consequently, we want to help you understand this complex situation and how to protect your assets.
Understanding the Exide Lead Pollution Lawsuit
Initially, Exide began its operations back in 1888. Over the decades, it supplied vehicle batteries globally. Recently, however, the State of California accused this multi-billion-dollar company of a massive environmental violation. Specifically, the state claimed the company released dangerous Exide lead pollution into the City of Vernon.
Consequently, this toxic pollution threatened the health of 100,000 people across 10,000 residential properties. First, California allocated millions of dollars to clean up Exide’s local battery recycling site. Next, the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) sued Exide directly. Furthermore, the DTSC sued the prior owners, operators, and transport companies. Ultimately, these external companies had arranged or moved hazardous materials to the Vernon location.
The Plant Closure and Initial Cleanup
Undoubtedly, the community felt some relief when Exide closed its Vernon plant in 2013. Since then, state and federal officials have actively overseen the ongoing investigation and cleanup activities. Meanwhile, the government secured some initial cleanup funding from Exide’s later bankruptcy settlement.
Related: What’s A Builder Got to Do with It?
Corporate Polluters Blame Local Residents
Moreover, the State’s massive lawsuit against the other involved companies continues today. Recently, one of those defending companies decided to point fingers. Specifically, they formally accused nearby municipalities, local corporate businesses, and everyday consumers of causing the Exide lead pollution.
Consequently, lawyers have dragged dozens of innocent parties into this complex legal case. Basically, this defending company argues a highly controversial point. They claim the real problem in Vernon does not stem from years of industrial battery recycling. Instead, they blame the lead paint and common household products used by local residents.
Why Do Companies Use This Tactic?
Frankly, we do not expect that specific defense to win in court. Nevertheless, corporate polluters use this strategy to delay the legal process. By dragging everyday citizens into court, they force cheap settlements and complicate the evidence. Therefore, this aggressive strategy shifts the heavy financial burden away from the actual polluters.
Consequently, even if you had absolutely nothing to do with these environmental problems, clearing your name takes time. Innocent property owners often spend years fighting stressful litigation.
Related: Hazardous Waste in Our Environment: What You Need to Know
What Should You Do Next?
Fortunately, an experienced environmental lawyer can quickly cut through these aggressive legal maneuvers. We know exactly how to defend innocent property owners against these baseless claims.
Therefore, do you own property within two miles of the former Exide facility? Furthermore, do you have urgent questions about your potential exposure and legal liability? Please reach out to our team right away.
About Us
The Law Office of Jennifer F. Novak provides strategic environmental law representation for property owners and businesses. We specialize in environmental litigation and regulatory compliance, focusing on soil and groundwater remediation, Clean Water Act citizen suits, and Water Board orders (Sections 13304 & 13267). We protect your interests by navigating complex regulations and ensuring fair enforcement.
Contact us today for dedicated environmental legal counsel.
