Famous Class Action Lawsuits - Legal Matters Info

A class action lawsuit is a claim by a large group of people against a company or business that has been negligent in their services, or provided products that have caused damage to the people. Throughout recent history, there have been many class action lawsuits filed, however there are some that are more notable than others, and have gained more of the public's attention.

Probably of the most notable class action lawsuits filed, was the lawsuit depicted in the film Erin Brockovich. The inspiration for this film was a lawsuit filed against the Pacific Gas and Electric company by the citizens of Hinkley, California. A class action lawsuit was filed alleging that the electric company was aware of the fact that harmful chemicals were being used in production, which were seeping into the ground water and contaminating the water supply. This led to Hinkley residents becoming ill, suffering from various forms of cancer as well as fertility problems. A verdict was ruled in favor of the citizens, and the Pacific Gas and Electric was forced to compensate for damages.

Another notable class action lawsuit that stands out in the minds of many, is the class action lawsuit that took place in the late 90's against the pharmaceutical company that manufactured the diet medication Fen-phen. This "diet miracle" drug was prescribed to more than 6 million patients in the United States. However, in 1997 the FDA released a statement from a study performed at the Mayo Clinic that showed the drug had serious and deadly side effects that could effect the heart. Patients were suffering from a large selection of illnesses from using the drug. A class action lawsuit was filed against the company, and even today those that took the drug and are now suffering affects are eligible for compensation from the damage it caused.

If you or someone you care about has been harmed due to another person's negligence, skilled truck accident attorneys, a wrongful death attorney, or Philadelphia personal injury attorneys can help you receive the compensation you deserve.