Roundup Lawsuit Verdict: What are Your Rights if Exposed to Weedkiller?

Roundup Lawsuit Verdict: What are Your Rights if Exposed to Weedkiller?

Were you exposed to Roundup weedkiller and later diagnosed with cancer? You might be entitled to compensation. Recent verdicts against Monsanto (now Bayer) have brought the dangers of Roundup and its active ingredient, glyphosate, into the spotlight. This blog post will explore your rights and what steps to take if you believe your health has been affected by Roundup exposure.

The Growing Concern Over Roundup

Roundup is a widely used herbicide, but its safety has been under intense scrutiny for years. The central issue revolves around glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, and its potential link to cancer, particularly non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). While regulatory agencies like the EPA have, at times, stated that glyphosate is unlikely to cause cancer, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, classifies glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” This discrepancy has fueled numerous lawsuits against Monsanto, the original manufacturer of Roundup.

A 2023 study by the University of California, Berkeley, found that glyphosate is a probable human carcinogen. Furthermore, a University of Washington review of numerous studies determined that glyphosate exposure may increase the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma by up to 41%.

Roundup Lawsuits: A History of Verdicts and Settlements

The Roundup litigation landscape is complex, marked by significant verdicts and settlements. As of May 2025, Monsanto has reached settlement agreements in nearly 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, paying approximately $11 billion. However, an estimated 67,000 active Roundup lawsuits are still pending.

Key Lawsuit Outcomes:

  • Significant Verdicts: Juries have awarded substantial damages to plaintiffs who claimed Roundup caused their cancer. Some notable cases include verdicts of $175 million, $332 million, $2.25 billion (later reduced), and $2.1 billion.
  • Recent Verdicts: In November 2023, a Missouri jury ordered Monsanto to pay over $1.5 billion to three former Roundup users who developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. In March 2025, a Georgia jury awarded about $2.1 billion to a man who claimed he developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma after 20 years of using Roundup.
  • Appeals and Reductions: Some verdicts have been reduced on appeal. For example, a $1.56 billion verdict was reduced to $611 million.
  • Defense Verdicts: It’s important to note that plaintiffs do not win every case. In some instances, juries have found that the plaintiff did not provide sufficient evidence to prove that Roundup was the cause of their cancer.

Settlements:

Bayer, which acquired Monsanto in 2018, has faced immense financial pressure due to these lawsuits. In 2020, Bayer offered up to $10.9 billion to settle thousands of Roundup personal injury claims. However, many cases remain unresolved, and new lawsuits continue to be filed.

Who Is Eligible to File a Roundup Lawsuit?

If you have been exposed to Roundup and diagnosed with certain types of cancer, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Here are some general criteria:

  • Diagnosis: You have been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) or another cancer linked to glyphosate exposure, such as leukemia, myeloma, or B-cell lymphoma.
  • Exposure: You have a history of regular Roundup exposure. This often includes agricultural workers, landscapers, groundskeepers, gardeners, and homeowners who used the product frequently.
  • Timeframe: Generally, you must have used Roundup for at least two years before your cancer diagnosis.
  • Statute of Limitations: It’s crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit. These deadlines vary by state, typically ranging from one to three years after your diagnosis or the date you learned about the connection between Roundup and your cancer.

What are Your Legal Rights?

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may have the right to seek compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses: Costs associated with cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and medications.
  • Lost Wages: Income lost due to your illness and inability to work.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by your cancer.
  • Punitive Damages: In some cases, you may be awarded punitive damages if the court finds that Monsanto acted with malice or negligence.
  • Wrongful Death: If you lost a loved one due to cancer caused by Roundup exposure, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Exposed

  1. Seek Medical Attention: If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about your health, consult a doctor.
  2. Document Your Exposure: Gather any records that can help prove your exposure to Roundup, such as purchase receipts, employment records, and photos.
  3. Consult with a Lawyer: Contact a qualified attorney experienced in Roundup litigation. They can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit.
  4. Be Aware of Deadlines: Pay close attention to the statute of limitations in your state. Missing the deadline can prevent you from pursuing a claim.

The Future of Roundup Litigation

The Roundup litigation is ongoing, and the legal landscape continues to evolve. Bayer faces mounting financial pressure as future trials stack up. Recent state laws in certain states, such as North Dakota and Georgia, aim to shield Bayer from some pesticide lawsuits, adding another layer of complexity.

Taking Action

If you or a loved one has been affected by Roundup exposure, it’s essential to understand your rights and take timely action. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to seek legal advice to protect your interests.