A class of highly aggressive forever chemicals known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has drawn public attention after causing massive water contamination.
PFAS are to blame for various adverse health effects, including cancer. Numerous people have filed product liability lawsuits against its producers for failing to warn the general public or regulatory bodies of the possible risk that their PFAS-containing products could pose.
Those afflicted by forever chemical water contamination will receive financial redress after three major chemical manufacturers reached a $1.18 billion settlement in multidistrict litigation.
Read this post to the end to learn about the PFAS forever chemical water pollution and whether you may qualify for compensation.
Massive Settlement Represents a Victory for Victims
Numerous lawsuits have been filed against the producers of PFAS-containing products as the public gained awareness of PFAS’ destructive potential. Several of them are AFFF forever chemical water pollution lawsuits.
Plaintiffs contend that companies like DuPont produced PFAS chemicals which eventually became absorbed into various local water systems.
Three major chemical producers have opted to settle with plaintiffs, including the California Water Service, for their participation in polluting public water systems.
This marks a significant victory for communities affected by PFAS forever chemical water pollution. The $1.18 billion settlement agreement excludes government-run systems.
Chemours is paying half of the settlement, roughly $592 million. The remainder is being split between DuPont and Corteva, with DuPont settling $400 million while Corteva pays $193 million.
Plaintiffs are still product liability lawsuits against other PFAS producers, such as Chemguard and 3M, claiming their negligence caused their cancer.
The settlement has been reached in light of recent findings that for many years, DuPont knew that PFAS could build up in the body and cause cancer.
They also have an extra incentive to settle since the EPA is developing new standards for acceptable PFAS concentrations in drinking water, which may increase their liability.
Forever Chemicals in AFFF Firefighting Foam Contaminate Water Systems
Ongoing research shows that PFAS, also known as forever chemicals are more common and harmful than previously believed.
Once consumed, inhaled, or absorbed, PFAS remains in the body for many years because its carbon-fluorine bond is difficult to break.
There were minimal PFAS regulations about AFFF up until recently. Exposure to certain levels of PFAS, such as drinking or bathing in contaminated water, can result in severe and sometimes fatal illnesses.
The following disorders have so far been linked to PFAS exposure:
- Congenital disabilities
- Decreased immune response
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Kidney cancer
- Liver damage
- Low birth weight
- Pre-eclampsia
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid issues
The Camp Lejeune lawsuits provide a glimpse into the possible effects of unchecked water contamination. In this case, decades of negligence resulted in cancer, organ damage, and congenital disabilities among military personnel and their families who used water contaminated with PFAS.
Considering the multitude of contamination cases, the clean-up exercise is costly and time-consuming. That means communities are still at risk of PFAS long after the forever chemical water pollution’s origin has been addressed.
Do I Need a Product Liability Lawyer?
Although the settlement announcement marks a significant advancement in holding large chemical makers accountable for their wrongdoing, there’s still more work to do.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer or other condition due to the negligence of chemical manufacturers, you should consult a dedicated product liability lawyer immediately.
Working with a skilled lawyer increases your chances of winning. Remember that PFAS contamination and liability are complex, and several parties could be liable for your damages.
So, having an expert lawyer who can thoroughly investigate your case, calculate your damages, and negotiate fair compensation would be best.
Consult an Experienced PFAS Lawsuit Attorney Today!
Numerous community members are battling cancer and other conditions due to exposure to PFAS. If you are one of them, you may be eligible for compensation.
At Legal Giant, we partner with the best product liability lawyers dedicated to fighting for clients and defending their rights.
We can link you with a skilled lawyer who will do everything, from helping you file a forever chemical water pollution lawsuit to representing and gathering the evidence needed to prove your injuries.
Contact us for a free case evaluation today.
