🚜 Deere & Company – Asbestos Exposure Risks

Deere & Company, commonly known as John Deere, is one of the world’s largest agricultural equipment manufacturers. Throughout much of the 20th century, the company used asbestos-containing materials in the brakes, clutches, and gaskets of its tractors and heavy machinery. These products put farmers, equipment operators, mechanics, and factory workers at risk of inhaling hazardous asbestos fibers.

🏭 Company Overview

• Founded: 1837

• Headquarters: Moline, Illinois

• Industry: Agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment

• Still in Business? ✅ Yes

• Asbestos Trust Fund? ❌ No specific trust fund established

🧱 How Asbestos Was Used

Deere & Company incorporated asbestos into its:

• Brake linings – for heat resistance in tractors and harvesters

• Clutch facings – to prevent overheating and wear in farm machinery

• Gaskets and seals – used in engines and transmission systems

These parts were often handled, repaired, or replaced, especially during maintenance cycles, releasing asbestos dust into the air.

👷 Who Was Exposed?

🚧 Primary Exposure Groups

• Farmers and agricultural workers

• Mechanics and equipment repair technicians

• John Deere manufacturing plant workers

• Dealership service personnel

• Parts handlers and warehouse staff

⚖️ Lawsuits & Legal History

While Deere & Company has not established a dedicated asbestos trust, it has been named in product liability lawsuits by:

• Former mechanics and service technicians

• Equipment operators who maintained or overhauled tractors

• Factory workers exposed during brake and clutch assembly

Claims often cite mesothelioma, asbestos lung cancer, or asbestosis diagnoses due to prolonged exposure.

🧾 Asbestos Products Linked to Deere & Company

📊 How Many People Were Exposed?

➡️ Total Estimated Exposure: 58,000+ individuals

❓ FAQ – Deere & Company Asbestos Exposure

📌 Can I still file a lawsuit against Deere & Company?

✅ Yes. If you or a loved one was exposed to asbestos through Deere tractor parts and later diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may still have a valid claim. Lawsuits are commonly filed as:

• Product liability claims

• Wrongful death suits

• Occupational exposure claims

⏳ What is the statute of limitations?

This varies by state, but most require claims to be filed within 2–3 years of diagnosis or discovery of asbestos-related illness.

🧾 What evidence can help?

• Repair logs, tractor ownership, or maintenance records

• Proof of working at a John Deere facility or dealership

• Medical diagnosis from a qualified specialist

🧩 Summary – Deere & Company & Asbestos