AFFF lawsuit Updates
AFFF Litigation Nears Critical Phase
The AFFF/PFAS litigation is approaching its final stages, with a heightened focus on verifying claims through discovery and product identification. Attorneys are working rapidly to determine which cases have sufficient proof. If a settlement cutoff occurs, it may come with little to no advance notice. Once that happens, new claims will no longer be accepted. Those considering legal action should be aware that the window for filing may close soon.
Firefighter Files PFAS Exposure Lawsuit After Health Diagnosis
A retired Yonkers firefighter has filed a lawsuit over severe health effects linked to prolonged PFAS exposure during his 30-year career. PFAS chemicals, found in firefighting foam (AFFF) and protective gear, were encountered during fire responses, training, and maintenance, including the 1996 Con Edison substation fire. Despite manufacturer assurances, PFAS has been linked to conditions like thyroid disease, which he was diagnosed with in 2019. His illness has caused lasting pain, suffering, and economic losses. His spouse is also seeking damages for loss of consortium. The lawsuit alleges negligent production and marketing of PFAS products, seeking compensatory and punitive damages to hold manufacturers accountable.
Punitive Damages Likely to Drive AFFF Settlements
Punitive damages are expected to play a crucial role in increasing AFFF lawsuit settlements and pressuring manufacturers to resolve cases before the first personal injury trial this year. Designed to penalize egregious misconduct and deter future wrongdoing, punitive damages address allegations that companies like 3M and DuPont concealed evidence of AFFF foam’s toxicity for decades. Internal documents reveal awareness of PFAS risks dating back to the 1960s, yet manufacturers failed to warn workers, firefighters, or communities. These lawsuits expose defendants to significant financial risk, encouraging settlements. Plaintiffs could receive substantial compensation reflecting personal damages and the severity of the manufacturers’ misconduct.
Firefighter Alleges AFFF Exposure Caused Cancer Recurrence
A Flagstaff firefighter and his wife have filed a lawsuit in the AFFF MDL, claiming injuries from prolonged exposure to PFAS-laden firefighting foams. Since 2002, he regularly used Class A and B foams during training and emergencies, often with direct skin contact. Despite repeated exposure, manufacturers provided no health warnings. Previously treated for testicular cancer at 21, he faced a rare recurrence after over a decade of foam use, requiring surgery and chemotherapy. His wife shares in the emotional and financial toll. The couple seeks accountability for their hardships, while the defendants are attempting to transfer the case to federal court.
About the AFFF Lawsuit
You may have heard about the AFFF foam lawsuit that has reached headlines. AFFF, or aqueous film-forming foam, is widely used by fire departments, military service, and Navy personnel, and in other various industries for its effectiveness in extinguishing fuel fires. There have been recent concerns about a possible link between AFFF exposure and various dangerous health conditions, including life-threatening cancers. It's important to understand how to pre-qualify for the AFFF lawsuit if the product has harmed you or a loved one and you would like to participate in the class action lawsuit.
AFFF is Linked to Various Health Conditions
Several serious health issues have already been associated with AFFF exposure. Among these concerns is the connection to certain types of cancer. AFFF exposure, particularly to its main component, PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), has been linked to an increased risk of developing cancers such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and others. Research has increasingly focused on how PFAS contribute to these illnesses, due to their resilience to naturally breakdown in the environment and the human body.
Who Qualifies for the AFFF Lawsuit?
There are specific criteria you must meet to pre-qualify for the AFFF lawsuit. These requirements include:
1) Occupational Requirement: You must have been a civilian, Navy, or military firefighter, or you must have been exposed to or used AFFF on the job or during training. All Navy personnel are considered military firefighters for the purposes of this lawsuit.
2) Timing of Diagnosis: Your diagnosis must have occurred at least six months after your initial AFFF exposure.
3) You must have been diagnosed with one of the following health conditions:
- Kidney Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Liver Cancer
- Thyroid Disease (Hypo and Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's Disease)
If you do not have a valid cancer diagnosis from your doctor but have been experiencing health issues due to AFFF exposure, you may still be able to be included in the AFFF lawsuit. Additionally, you must not currently be represented by an attorney for AFFF exposure symptoms to partake in the AFFF lawsuit. If you meet the above requirements, you may be entitled to compensation. We encourage you to seek legal advice to determine your eligibility. Various factors impact eligibility and all cases are unique.
What is the Focus of the AFFF Lawsuit?
AFFF lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturers of AFFF foam across the United States. Plaintiffs allege that AFFF exposure has caused them to develop serious health conditions, including various types of cancer. The lawsuit claims that the manufacturers, including 3M, DuPont, Chemours, and others, knew about the health risks associated with the forever chemicals in AFFF but failed to adequately warn users. These companies are accused of concealing the potential dangers, not maintaining strict safety standards, and failing to reformulate their products to make them safer for consumers and the environment.
Who is the Lawsuit for?
The AFFF lawsuit is intended for individuals who have been exposed to AFFF foam and have subsequently been diagnosed with a pre-qualifying illness. This includes civilian, Navy, and military firefighters who have used AFFF in the line of duty, as well as other personnel who were exposed to the foam during training or industrial use. The AFFF lawsuit aims to provide a path to justice and compensation for those affected by the harmful chemicals in the product, supporting them in their fight against the health issues they have endured due to their exposure.
How Much Compensation Should You Expect?
Determining the exact settlement amounts in the AFFF foam lawsuit can be challenging due to the unique factors involved in each case. However, there have been some significant case settlements that forecast individual compensations:
Significant Settlements and Trials
Municipal Water Treatment Cases: In December 2023, 3M and DuPont agreed to a $10.3 billion settlement to resolve cases related to PFAS contamination from AFFF. The City of Stuart reached a tentative settlement with 3M for $10 billion over water contamination claims. This settlement aims to address the extensive environmental damage and health risks caused by PFAS chemicals found in AFFF. This settlement is still pending final approval.
Johnson Controls Settlement: In January 2021, Johnson Controls paid $17.5 million to settle a class action lawsuit involving about 1,200 Wisconsin residents affected by PFAS contamination from AFFF.
While exact amounts can vary, the settlements in the AFFF lawsuit are expected to be substantial, reflecting the serious health risks and extensive AFFF exposure symptoms suffered by many plaintiffs. If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and developed health issues, we can get you in contact with an attorney in our network that may be able to help you understand your potential compensation and the steps needed to join the litigation.
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