A former employee is suing the state Public Education Department for damages arising from workplace contamination. The plaintiff used to work at the Jerry Apodaca Education Building as a computer and IT specialist from 1997 to 2014. He claims that he developed a number of health problems relating to exposure to mold and asbestos contained in the basement.
Toxic Building?
For years, employees represented by a workers union have maintained that the building, particularly its basement, was contaminated by mold and asbestos. In 2012, employees were relocated to another building while the Apodaca building underwent remediation for the removal of asbestos and other problems. Workers returned to the basement of Apodaca a year after but some continue to believe that the building remained toxic.
In his complaint against the PED, the plaintiff claims that he was diagnosed with traumatic neurotoxicity, depression, PTSD, and anxiety, compelling him to take some time off work. He also maintained that he has requested several times for a transfer to another building but that officials denied his requests despite knowledge of his health problems. He further claims that the stress of being forced to work in a contaminated building led to a nervous breakdown that required hospitalization.
This is not the first time that workers have complained of respiratory problems. The local union reported that two PED employees were previously diagnosed with cancer while several others suffered from respiratory issues.
Claiming Compensation for Premises Liability
Property owners or managers have the duty to prevent injury to persons in their premises. If you are injured in the workplace due to the company or property owner’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Claiming damages for an injury requires proof of the injury and the cause of the injury and other matters that are best handled by an experienced El Paso personal injury attorney.
Depending on the circumstances of your injuries, you may recover compensation for your:
- Past and future medical bills
- Past and future lost earnings or income
- Damages for your past and future pain and suffering
- Disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Representing Clients in New Mexico
In New Mexico, the Ruhmann Law Firm has years of experience in personal injury cases such as premises liability lawsuits, and are available to clients at any time, taking phone calls 24/7. If you are unable to see us at our offices, we can personally assist you at the hospital or at your home.
We invite you to call us today at (575) 525-8542 to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.
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