What recoverable damages are included in an ethylene oxide claim?

At our law firm, we offer you a unique level of attention. We hope that these frequently asked questions will help you understand more about the way we work and validate our passion for helping people who are going through difficult situations.



Victims of ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure may recover compensatory and punitive damages. On the other hand, grieving relatives of deceased victims may recover punitive and wrongful death damages. The definite and final recoverable damages will depend on the outcome of your lawsuit.

Compensatory damages

EtO exposure victims suffered great financial, emotional, and physical losses. Because of this, compensatory damages intend to reimburse victims for the following aspects:

  • Medical expenses. This includes the cost of treatments, laboratory tests, medication, medical devices, and other future healthcare expenditures.
  • Pain and suffering. Victims are justly and rightfully compensated for the physical pain, emotional distress, and overall suffering caused by their EtO-related illness.
  • Lost wages. An EtO settlement also covers income a victim may have lost during the diagnosis and treatment of their medical condition. This includes lost future earnings if your illness affects your capability to earn a living.
  • Decreasing enjoyment and quality of life. A cancer diagnosis associated with EtO exposure greatly impacts a person’s daily life. The loss of being able to enjoy life is compensable in an EtO claim.

Punitive damages

In cases where defendants are found negligent or reckless, punitive damages are awarded to victims. The purpose of this type of damage is to hold EtO-using facilities responsible and to deter any future harmful behavior.

Wrongful death damages

Only family members of deceased EtO victims may receive wrongful death damages. Compensation for wrongful death claims aims to assist families in coping with the financial and emotional loss of a loved one due to EtO-related cancer.

Speak to an experienced attorney at ELG Law for your EtO claim

If you believe that your health or that of your loved one has been negatively affected by ethylene oxide exposure, then you may consult ELG Law to know your legal options. Our skilled attorneys can determine your eligibility to file an EtO-related claim, and we can guide you through the legal process of filing a claim for fair compensation. To evaluate your case and get started, we will need your employment or residency records, as well as your medical documents.