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In a groundbreaking legal battle, plaintiff Gustavo Reyes Gonzalez, a 34-year-old immigrant from Mexico, has received a historic verdict of $52,437,366 in damages after a Los Angeles County jury found the defendant manufacturers of artificial stone slabs liable for his fatal accelerated silicosis. This landmark verdict marks the first of its kind in the U.S., highlighting the severe health risks associated with the fabrication of artificial stone (quartz) slabs to make kitchen and bathroom countertops.
Defendants and Outcome
The lawsuit involved over 30 manufacturers and suppliers of artificial stone slabs, with many settling before trial. However, Caesarstone USA, Cambria, and Color Marble went to trial. After a month-long proceeding, the jury ruled in favor of Gustavo Reyes Gonzalez, assessing him $52,437,366 in damages against the defendants.
Severe Health Struggles
Gustavo Reyes Gonzalez, represented by Brayton Purcell LLP, worked in stone fabrication shops for 15 years until he developed accelerated silicosis at age 33, necessitating a lung transplant. Unfortunately, transplanted lungs only function for an average of five years, meaning Gustavo will need repeated transplants to survive.
Legal Representation and Responses
Gilbert Purcell, lead trial partner at Brayton Purcell LLP, expressed gratitude to the jury, stating: “On behalf of our client Gustavo Reyes Gonzalez, and our entire trial team, we want to thank the jury for their courageous verdict. Thank goodness for jurors and our civil justice system.”
James Nevin, a partner at Brayton Purcell LLP, emphasized the case's significance: “Since this is the first of hundreds of trials, it was crucial for the artificial stone slab manufacturers and suppliers to hear the jury’s message loud and clear – stop selling your deadly fashion products. The health and lives of these young fabrication workers are far more important than your profits.”
Worker Health Crisis: A Silicosis Epidemic
This case highlights the growing health crisis among fabrication workers due to artificial stone slabs. While the defendants attempted to blame Gustavo’s silicosis on his employer, Brayton Purcell LLP represents over 150 workers from over 350 different fabrication shops across California and several other states. The real problem lies with the product, not the shops. Australia has already banned these products, deeming them impossible to fabricate safely.
Reports indicate an epidemic of silicosis cases among artificial stone fabrication workers exposed to quartz dust, prompting calls for a ban. Health professionals warn that fabricating stone countertops releases high volumes of nano-sized silica dust, leading to accelerated silicosis in young workers. Artificial stone has up to 99% silica, while natural stone contains as little as 3%.
Local Impacts
By July 10, 2024, the California Department of Public Health had reported 167 cases of silicosis from engineered stone. At least 13 deaths are linked to these cases. Out of these instances, 100 are from residents of Los Angeles County, but that is just the tip of the iceberg.
Fighting for Your Safety in the Workplace – Brayton Purcell, LLP
If you or someone you know has suffered from artificial stone silicosis California as a result of workplace exposure, it's crucial to seek knowledgeable and experienced legal representation. The silicosis victim lawyers at Brayton Purcell, LLP have a proven track record of fighting for the rights of workers affected by hazardous conditions and securing the compensation they deserve.
Don’t let the negligence of manufacturers compromise your health and future without a fight. Contact Brayton Purcell LLP today to discuss your case and explore your legal options with a silicosis lawsuits attorney. Together, we can strive for a safer work environment and ensure that justice is served for anyone affected by engineered stone countertop silicosis in California.
Stay Informed
More information on the hazards of fabricating artificial stone and Gustavo Reyes-Gonzalez's story can be found in the following resources:
Jury Finds Artificial Stone Manufacturers at Fault
Deadly Dust—Spectrum News, Los Angeles
Production of artificial stone countertops causing deadly lung issues in workers - CBS News
Emerging Health Concern: Silicosis-NBC, Los Angeles
California Bill on Silicosis Safety Measures
A License to Kill is No Solution--Brayton Purcell Press Release
Diseases Associated with Artificial Stone
Brayton Purcell Featured in The Hill—Press Release
August 2012 – Dr. Mordechai Kramer, et. al – Chest
This verdict is not just a victory for Mr. Reyes-Gonzalez but also a significant step towards greater accountability and safety in the artificial stone slab industry.
To view our full press release, click here.
