PFAS and AFFF Exposure: What You Need To Know About Drinking Water Lawsuits
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of artificial chemicals used in various industries since the 1950s. They are found in a wide range of products like nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and stain-resistant fabrics. Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a type of firefighting foam containing PFAS that military and civilian firefighters have used widely since the 1960s.
The problem with PFAS and AFFF is that they don’t break down easily in the environment or human body, earning them the moniker “forever chemicals.” Over time, they can accumulate and lead to serious health problems, including certain types of cancer, thyroid disease, and reproductive issues.
The National Injury Law Firm™, PLLC, is ready to help if you were harmed by PFAS or AFFF. We can connect you with a skilled attorney with the expertise needed to build a strong case demonstrating the link between your chemical exposure and illness. We are dedicated to increasing safety for all by holding companies responsible for dangerous products legally accountable.
Lawsuits Over PFAS/AFFF Exposure
A major lawsuit was recently settled against manufacturers and other responsible parties for PFAS contamination. Plaintiffs allege the defendants knew about the health hazards but continued to produce and sell these chemicals without proper warnings anyway. This utter disregard for public safety has led to chemical contamination of water supplies nationwide. The plaintiffs in this action were awarded $11 billion, the largest drinking water settlement in U.S. history.
Financial compensation cannot undo the damage entirely, but it can ease the financial burden of medical treatment and provide a sense of justice. If you have suffered adverse health effects after exposure to PFAS or AFFF, you may have grounds to file a product liability lawsuit or join an existing class action. These cases allow plaintiffs to hold irresponsible corporate entities accountable for the devastating health consequences they cause to exposed individuals.
While there are no guaranteed payouts, consulting an experienced attorney to determine your eligibility to join or file a PFAS or AFFF lawsuit is vital. The National Injury Law Firm™, PLLC, can connect you with a skilled lawyer to help you understand your legal rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
PFAS and AFFF Exposure Claim Eligibility
To have a strong claim for compensation related to PFAS or AFFF exposure, you must meet several criteria:
- Documented exposure to PFAS or AFFF, often through drinking contaminated water over an extended period. Military service members who used AFFF may also have viable claims.
- A diagnosed illness associated with PFAS or AFFF exposure, such as kidney or testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis.
- Evidence that the exposure caused or contributed to your illness. This requires a physician’s opinion linking the chemicals and your illness.
- Proof that the defendant’s actions directly led to the exposure. This may include, for example, proof that a chemical manufacturer sold PFAS or AFFF despite knowing the health risks.
- Compensable damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life.
Every case is unique, but meeting these basic requirements will give you a foundation for legal action. Let us put you in touch with an attorney who can evaluate the facts of your case to determine your eligibility for a lawsuit.
Milestone Settlements and Verdicts in the PFAS and AFFF Lawsuits
Major settlements and verdicts in these cases demonstrate that courts are ready to hold companies accountable for PFAS and AFFF contamination:
- In 2018, 3M agreed to pay $850 million to settle a lawsuit related to PFAS contamination in Minnesota.
- In 2023, a South Carolina judge ordered 3M to pay $10.3 billion to public utilities to resolve lawsuits against them for PFAS found in drinking water.
- In 2024, BASF corporation agreed to pay $316.5 million as part of an AFFF settlement.
These case results prove that companies can face severe financial consequences for their role in PFAS and AFFF exposure. Past verdicts and settlements set valuable precedents that can strengthen current and future cases. The National Injury Law Firm™, PLLC, monitors significant developments to help keep consumers safe and bring responsible manufacturers to justice.
Frequently Asked Questions About PFAS and AFFF Exposure Lawsuits
PFAS and AFFF exposure awareness is gaining traction as more lawsuits are filed every month. Read on for answers to the frequently asked questions about these complicated product liability lawsuits.
1. What Is PFAS?
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of around 5,000 human-made chemicals used to make products resistant to heat, stains, grease, and water. They are extremely long-lasting in the environment and the human body.
2. What Is AFFF?
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam that contains PFAS. It quickly extinguishes petroleum-based fires but also contaminates ground and drinking water.
3. What Are the Symptoms of AFFF Exposure?
AFFF exposure is linked to cancer and other serious health conditions. Current and retired firefighters at high risk.
4. What Are the Symptoms of PFAS Exposure?
Ingesting PFAS through contaminated water is also linked to many serious illnesses and health conditions, including kidney and testicular cancer, ulcerative colitis, thyroid disease, and high cholesterol.
5. What if I Was Exposed to AFFF or PFAS During Military Service?
Veterans who used AFFF or served at bases where PFAS contaminated the water may be eligible for VA benefits and compensation through a lawsuit against third-party manufacturers. The VA does not presumptively recognize certain conditions, such as kidney cancer and thyroid disease, as directly related to PFAS exposure during military service. That said, the VA decides claims individually.
If you believe your health issues were caused by chemical exposure during military service, do not hesitate to consult an attorney. To pursue a VA claim, you’ll need to provide evidence of your diagnosis and your exposure to PFAS or AFFF during military service. An experienced attorney can help you gather the necessary documentation and navigate the claims process.
6. What Diseases Are Linked to PFAS Exposure?
In addition to the cancers mentioned above, research has linked PFAS to high cholesterol, pregnancy complications, liver damage, and negative effects on the immune system and hormones.
7. What Products Have the Most PFAS?
PFAS are found in stain-resistant and water-resistant fabrics, nonstick cookware, cardboard food packaging, dental floss, cosmetics, and numerous other products.
8. Who Qualifies for an AFFF Lawsuit?
Current and former firefighters, military service members, and employees at facilities that used AFFF may qualify if they developed an illness after exposure.
9. Who Qualifies for a PFAS Exposure Lawsuit?
Anyone who consumed contaminated drinking water over an extended period and is now suffering from an illness linked to PFAS may have a viable claim against polluters.
The National Injury Law Firm™ Can Help If You've Been Exposed to PFAS or AFFF
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