In recent years, Kentucky and many other states have seen a rise in the use of kratom, an herbal supplement that is expected to help many individuals with their health issues. Even though many people claim that this natural supplement serves a purpose in their everyday lives, others have sustained harmful effects due to kratom use.
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, our experienced and knowledgeable legal team is here to assist you and your family if you have lost a loved one due to the harmful effects of kratom. We understand how devastating these losses can be for a family left behind after a preventable fatality. In the case of a wrongful death, we understand that it can be difficult to pursue a claim as you are grieving. Contact us to find out what options you have at this time.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a plant-based ingredient that is generally seen in powder and capsule form in the U.S. It is currently legal to use and purchase and can be found in stores and online. For centuries, this substance has been used in Southeast Asia as folk medicine but now it is used by millions of people in America and can be purchased at gas stations, bars, and more.
Many Americans have started using kratom in pill capsule and tea form as a stimulant and a pain reliever. Kratom is said to relieve people of pains, anxiety, depression, opioid withdrawal, and more. However, it also works just as an opioid does by producing the same euphoric type of state that causes addiction in many Americans each year. In some cases, kratom has even been linked to fatalities.
FDA Statements on Kratom
Since kratom is so new to the market with little scientific data, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) claims that there is not enough information to determine if it presents a risk of injury or illness. The FDA has not lawfully marketed it as an additive to food or a dietary supplement under U.S. law. The FDA has also warned the public against use of kratom for any type of medical treatment, as it is not a legally approved supplement for medical needs. At this point, this means that Americans use it at their own risk when they ingest it in any form.
Furthermore, in 2022, the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission issued warning letters to various companies, including Herbsens Botanicals and Klarity Kratom, stating the dangers of kratom. At the time, the companies were selling kratom products not approved by the FDA to treat opioid-related disorders and symptoms of withdrawal.
Dangers of Overdose and Death Caused by Kratom
Though kratom has been sold on the Internet and in stores as a solution for pain and other illnesses that individuals face, it can be incredibly addictive and lead to life-threatening injury. Kratom has actually been linked to thousands of deaths throughout the U.S., according to an investigation by Tampa Bay Times. This dangerous ingredient can lead to psychosis, organ damage and failure, and even death from overdose.
Overdose happens during kratom use by quickly acting as a sedative in the body. From there, it can cause seizures, heart failure, failure in the lungs, and more. This is especially true if an individual specifically takes a large dose or has been using kratom long-term.
Holding a Kratom Manufacturer Liable for a Fatality
Over the years, various large kratom manufacturers have been named in wrongful death lawsuits where they have been ordered to pay millions to families who have lost loved ones due to kratom use and overdose. Even though large government administrations like the DEA have attempted to classify kratom as a schedule 1 drug similar to Heroin, it has never officially been added to the list due to backlash from lobbyists.
If you have lost a loved one due to kratom overdose, organ failure, or any other related health problem, you have the right to file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one. Kratom manufacturers and distributors have been held liable for deaths related to its use in the past and you can successfully bring a claim to receive damages during these difficult times.
Financial Support Following a Wrongful Death Caused by Kratom
If a loved one has been taken from you due to the negligence of a kratom manufacturer or distributor, you have legal options for recovery. While you grieve, you may be left dealing with financial distress caused by the loss of your loved one, from medical bills to loss of income. A legal advocate can help you collect useful evidence that can help you prove your claim and gain financial support that you and your family need. You may be able to collect damages for some of the following aspects:
- Medical bills your loved one suffered before their passing
- Funeral and burial costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship and consortium
- Punitive damages meant to punish a company for recklessness
Every claim is unique and the circumstances of your loved one’s passing likely varies from other situations. Because of this, you need an attorney on your side who understands what you are facing and what to expect in your claim.
Contact a Kentucky Kratom Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
Because corporations that sell kratom to the general public are enormous and typically employ big insurance companies, you could be dealing with back-and-forth negotiations and feel intimidated throughout this complex process. Our Kentucky kratom wrongful death lawyers understand what your family has been through and will stand by your side when you need our assistance the most.
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, we will aggressively fight to protect you and your family after you have lost somebody you love due to kratom use. Our knowledgeable attorneys will advocate for you and provide you with a variety of resources that can be beneficial in your claim. Please contact us today for a free case evaluation so that you and your family can get started.