A news story on the latimes.com website reported that the California attorney general’s office has settled a toxic tort lawsuit with Toys R Us, Kmart, and Target. They were found to be guilty of selling toys with high levels of lead, exposure to which can be dangerous especially in young children whose nervous systems are developing.

The attorney general’s office and the Los Angeles city attorney filed a lawsuit against the three retailers, along with Mattel Inc. when it was discovered that they were selling or making toys with excessive amounts of lead paint.

The contaminated toys broke federal toy safety standards and California law Proposition 65, that deals with toxic substances, prompting a wave of recalls.

The California State deputy attorney said, “Our enforcement action will serve as a reminder to companies that they have a responsibility to make sure that children aren’t exposed to harmful chemicals from their toys.

The settlement provides a remedy for past violations and makes it less likely that there will be future violations of lead standards.” Under the settlement, Toys R Us will pay $175,000, Kmart will pay $69,000, and Target will pay $210,000.

It is hard to believe that we still have to question stores that we trust to do the right thing. Stores have the responsibility to ensure that the products they are putting on their shelves are safe for consumers; especially products intended for our children.

If you feel that you or a loved one has suffered because of a product in Arizona, do not hesitate to call the lawyers at Phillips and Lyon. Their attorneys have won many cases for their clients so you can rest assured that they know the law and the court system.

The attorneys at Phillips and Lyon have a passion to help, and have made it their mission to assist those who have suffered at the hands of negligent entities. Please call 1-800-272-5297 for a free in home consultation.