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AFFF Health Risks Firefighting Foam Lawsuit

Manufacturers of AFFF or Aqueous Film-Forming Foam are finding themselves in legal hot water for selling toxic chemicals. PFAS found in firefighting foam have been linked to kidney cancer, prostate cancer, testicular cancer and other health issues. Firefighters and affected municipalities are filing AFFF lawsuits to hold manufacturers accountable.

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AFFF Health Risks Firefighting Foam Lawsuit

Manufacturers of AFFF or Aqueous Film-Forming Foam are finding themselves in legal hot water for selling toxic chemicals. PFAS found in firefighting foam have been linked to kidney cancer, prostate cancer, testicular cancer and other health issues. Firefighters and affected municipalities are filing AFFF lawsuits to hold manufacturers accountable.

Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Surge

Research has linked exposure to AFFF chemicals, including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), to a range of cancers. These include breast, kidney, prostate, bladder, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer.

Other issues caused by exposure to AFFF include thyroid disease, immune system dysfunction, and developmental issues in children. 

Therefore, as awareness grows regarding the effects of these chemicals, more and more people are taking legal action to hold manufacturers accountable for the damages caused. 

So, if you are a firefighter, military personnel, industrial worker, or resident exposed to AFFF contaminated water, you maybe eligible to file a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit.

Schedule a free consultation with an Uptown Injury firefighting foam lawyer today to know your legal rights and get the compensation you deserve. 

What Is Aqueous Film Forming Foam?

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), introduced in the 1960s, is a firefighting foam used to suppress flammable liquid fires. It forms a foam layer to separate the fuel from oxygen, preventing re-ignition. 

Moreover, AFFF contains synthetic chemicals such as PFOS and PFOA, which belong to the PFAS group. 

These persistent organic pollutants resist environmental degradation, raising concerns about their potential harm to humans and animals and contaminating waterways.

How Do PFAS in AFFF Enter the Human Body?

PFAS (per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) in AFFF can enter the human body through various pathways. Contaminated drinking water, consumption of contaminated food, inhalation of airborne particles, and direct contact with AFFF are common routes of PFAS entry.

In addition, these hazardous substances accumulate in the blood over time due to their persistence in the body. Firefighters and military personnel frequently use AFFF during their work and are at an increased risk of PFAS exposure.


Furthermore, studies have found PFAS in the bloodstreams of firefighters, reinforcing their exposure to these chemicals in the line of duty and emphasizing the potential health risks associated with the gradual accumulation of these substances over time.

What Are the Health Effects of Firefighting Foam?

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) can have various health effects on individuals exposed to it. Some of the identified illnesses include:

  • Kidney cancer
  • Bladder cancer 
  • Liver damage
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Increased cholesterol
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Lymphoma
  • Thyroid disease
  • Testicular cancer
  • Asthma
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Hormonal Imbalance
  • Neurological disease
  • Low birth weight and fetal problems
  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Breast cancer

Which Manufacturers Are Facing Firefighter Foam Lawsuits?

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam lawsuits have named some of the major manufacturers as defendants, such as:

 

  • 3M 
  • Chemguard, Inc. 
  • Tyco Fire Products
  • The Chemours Company
  • DuPont 
  • Buckeye Fire Equipment Company
  • National Foam, Inc. 
  • Angus Fire
  • Kidde-Fenwal, Inc. 
  • Johnson Controls International PLC 
  • And numerous others

Filing An AFFF Firefighter Foam Lawsuit

Victims diagnosed with cancer due to occupational exposure or residents affected due to consuming PFAS-contaminated water can file aqueous film-forming foam lawsuits.

1. Military/Navy Personnel

U.S. Navy military personnel, especially those exposed to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) during their service, are among the groups that can file firefighter cancer lawsuits.

 These individuals may have been exposed to AFFF in the following ways:

  • Training exercises
  • Emergency responses
  • Other military operations

 

Therefore, given the potential health risks associated with AFFF exposure, military firefighters and other personnel can seek compensation if they have developed cancer or other related health conditions.

If you have received a cancer diagnosis from prolonged occupational exposure to PFAS, you could be eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit. 

Contact Uptown Injury firefighting foam lawyer to take legal action and hold responsible manufacturers accountable for your suffering. Get a free case review today!

2. Firefighters

Firefighters, often at the frontlines of hazardous situations, face significant exposure to AFFF chemicals. This occupational exposure increases their risk of developing cancer and other health issues linked to AFFF.

Therefore, firefighters diagnosed with PFAS-related health conditions might qualify to file a claim against the manufacturers and distributors of firefighting foam.

3. Airport Workers

Airport staff, including firefighters, baggage handlers, and maintenance crews, come into contact with AFFF during fire suppression and emergency response activities. 

 

PFAS in AFFF can contaminate the air and soil, exposing workers to these hazardous substances. 

Additionally, over time the accumulation of PFAS in the human body has been associated with an increased risk of cancer.

So, if you’re an airport worker who has been diagnosed with health issues due to AFFF exposure, get in touch with Uptown Injury firefighting foam attorneys to know your legal rights.

4. Communities

The use or release of AFFF may have a broader impact on surrounding communities. This means that residents living near military bases, airports, or industrial sites where AFFF has been actively used could expose residents to PFAS chemicals through:

  • Contaminated water 
  • Air pollution
  • Other sources 

 

Furthermore, municipalities like the City of Stuart, Florida, and the City of Mansfield, Ohio, have filed lawsuits against AFFF manufacturers, facing steep costs to clean water systems from PFAS exposure.

AFFF Lawsuit Eligibility Criteria

Anyone who has been a victim of toxic firefighting foam through occupational exposure or water contamination is eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit. 

In order to pursue a lawsuit related to exposure to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), several factors need to be considered.

  • Firstly, the victim must have been exposed to AFFF, either through occupational exposure or environmental contamination.
  • Secondly, there must be harmful health effects associated with AFFF exposure. This includes conditions like cancer, thyroid disease, immune system dysfunction, developmental issues, or other documented health conditions linked to AFFF chemicals.
  • Thirdly, there needs to be a clear causal link between AFFF exposure and the specific health condition suffered by the victim. Not only does this require medical evidence, but also expert testimony to establish the connection.
  • Also, it is important to bear in mind the statute of limitations. This is the timeframe within which the lawsuit needs to be filed after the discovery of harm or injury.
  • Additionally, the lawsuit must correctly identify the responsible parties. Manufacturers, distributors, or entities involved in producing, distributing, or using AFFF could be responsible, as they must answer for the damages they caused.
  • Lastly, you must seek legal representation from experienced AFFF attorneys. With their assistance, navigating the complexities of the legal process becomes less daunting, and your chances of a successful outcome are increased.
  •  

Are you still feeling unsure about where to begin with your firefighting foam claim? Consult an Uptown Injury AFFF lawyer today for a risk-free, no-obligation AFFF case review.

Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuit Compensation

In a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit, victims may be eligible to recover various types of compensation, known as damages. These can include economic and non-economic losses.

Economic Damages 

These aim to compensate for quantifiable financial losses, such as:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Future medical costs
  • Rehabilitation expenses

Non-Economic Damages 

They may include compensation for intangible losses, including:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium
 

In addition, punitive damages may be granted in some circumstances to punish the defendant for their negligence.

An experienced AFFF lawyer can assist you in determining appropriate damages depending on the severity of your injuries and other factors and can advocate on your behalf for a fair settlement. 

AFFF Lawsuit Settlement Amounts

The AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts vary depending on the severity of the injury and several other factors. For example, in 2020, Dupont agreed to a settlement of $50 million with Travis Abbot, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer after consuming PFAS-contaminated water. 

Moreover, recently, 3M consented to a massive settlement worth $12.5 billion. This was directed towards municipalities in an effort to rectify water systems that had been impacted due to AFFF exposure.

Individual AFFF Lawsuit Settlement Amounts

Individual settlements in AFFF lawsuits can range significantly depending on the severity of the damages suffered, the extent of exposure to AFFF chemicals, medical expenses, and other related factors. On average, individual AFFF settlements might range from $50,000 to $300,000 or more. 

AFFF Lawsuit Settlement Amounts to Municipalities

Companies such as 3M, Dupont, Tyco Fire Products, and other AFFF manufacturers have faced legal action from municipalities and public water systems due to PFAS contamination. 

Generally, AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts for affected municipalities can vary based on factors such as:

  • The extent of contamination
  • Population size affected
  • Potential long-term health
  • Clean up costs
  • Environmental consequences
 

Furthermore, according to reports, Dupont has agreed to nearly $400 Million for AFFF exposure. Moreover, Dupont’s spinoff Chemours and Corteva have agreed to pay a combined settlement amount of $785 million.

AFFF Lawsuit MDL

A Firefighting Foam multidistrict litigation (MDL) refers to the consolidation of numerous lawsuits filed across different federal courts related to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) products. 

The MDL centralizes these cases in a single federal court to streamline the legal process and promote efficiency. As of now, the firefighting foam cancer lawsuit MDL is actively underway in the United States District Court of South Carolina.

The discovery process in an MDL is the pretrial phase. Plaintiffs and defendants share evidence for the AFFF lawsuits. This evidence may include documents, records, testimonies, and more. 

A Multi-District Litigation has many benefits, such as:

  • Avoiding duplicative discovery
  • Consistent pretrial rulings
  • Potential for faster resolution
 

In addition, it allows for coordination among plaintiffs’ attorneys, promoting efficiency and facilitating global settlement negotiations. However, each AFFF case is unique, and the ultimate outcome will depend on the specific facts and circumstances.

Am I Eligible to Be Part of an AFFF MDL?

The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) is responsible for deciding whether a plaintiff can join the MDL. They consider various factors, such as the nature of your claim, the extent of your injuries or damages, and the relevant jurisdiction. 

Therefore, it is recommended to consult with an experienced AFFF lawyer to know if you qualify for firefighting foam MDL and how you should proceed with it.

AFFF Lawsuit Update 2023

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) was once used as the most powerful solution to extinguish the fire. But now it is amid a heated legal showdown because of its hazardous effects.

July 2023

Several defendants involved in the firefighting foam litigation, such as Dupont, Chemours, and Corteva, agreed to pay $1.18 billion in settlements to 300 AFFF-affected water suppliers, signaling a step toward resolution. 

 

In a similar development, another major defendant in firefighting foam lawsuits, 3M, has agreed to pay $12.3 billion in damages. These funds are intended to assist municipalities in cleaning water sources that have been contaminated due to PFAS exposure.

In addition to individual claimants, the state of Kentucky and various water suppliers made headlines as they seek compensation for injuries and water contamination caused by AFFF, especially those near civilian airports and military bases.

June 2023

As of June 16, plaintiffs have filed nearly 4973 cases against manufacturers of firefighting foam. These lawsuits claim that PFAS exposure has caused personal injuries to individuals and contamination of water sources. 


Moreover, the first trial filed by claimant The City of Stuart was supposed to happen on June 5. But it was delayed because both parties agreed on a joint motion. Defendant 3M agreed on a deal to pay $10 billion in settlement to municipalities affected due to firefighting foam chemicals. 

Although the 3M settlement amount currently targets water suppliers and municipalities, there’s a strong possibility that they may agree to compensate firefighters, military personnel, and airport workers in the future.

May 2023

In the ongoing Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) 2873 in South Carolina, the pretrial proceedings steadily progress, with new plaintiffs consistently joining the litigation. Indeed, this MDL effectively consolidates dozens of lawsuits from across the nation involving AFFF manufacturers such as 3M, DuPont, and Chemours. Subsequently, several manufacturers have entered preliminary settlement discussions. 

Despite the specifics remaining confidential, this nonetheless represents a positive step towards providing victims with much-needed compensation.

Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is inching closer to setting a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for PFAS in drinking water. This regulatory action may impact the litigation, potentially strengthening plaintiffs’ claims.

Furthermore, 3M has set aside approximately $2.5 billion for potential liabilities related to PFAS lawsuits. This significant reserve underlines the gravity of these cases and the potential financial ramifications for the defendants.

April 2023

As of April 2023, the number of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) cancer lawsuits continues to grow.

The Illinois Attorney General has recently filed a lawsuit against several AFFF manufacturers. The lawsuit alleges that these companies knowingly allowed PFAS to contaminate water resources across the state, causing widespread harm to the public. 

Also, this marks a critical turning point as the fight against PFAS contamination widens to include not only personal injury cases but environmental lawsuits as well.

Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a National Firefighting Registry in public health. This significant step aims to study and analyze the trends in firefighting-related cancers more effectively, considering the correlation between PFAS exposure and the prevalence of cancer among firefighters. 

Moreover, in some early trials, the courts have recognized the evidence linking AFFF exposure to several types of cancers, including kidney, pancreatic, and testicular cancer, among others. 

These rulings are promising indicators for future cases and offer hope to the victims that justice will be served.

March 2023

The IAF has recently lodged a complaint against the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It alleges that the NFPA failed to act responsibly by not providing adequate warnings about the potential risks associated with AFFF use.

 

Despite mounting legal pressure and increasing public attention, the government had not introduced any substantial changes to the regulations regarding AFFF products as of March 2023. 

 

However, increasing advocacy may pressure authorities to revisit current guidelines and industry practices.

Feb 2023

As of Feb 2023, the city of Stuart has sued 3M over firefighting foam issues. They claim that 3M’s firefighting foam has polluted their water. This has caused health and environmental problems, and the authorities want 3M to pay for these damages.

Furthermore, the legal industry is abuzz with anticipating the first bellwether trial. This trial, designed to test the strength of the plaintiff’s claims and the defense’s arguments, is crucial for setting the tone and guiding the future course of AFFF-related lawsuits.

Jan 2023

The number of firefighting foam has increased to 3,387 in January. In addition, the City of Mansfield has filed a lawsuit against multinational conglomerates such as Dupont, 3M, and Tyco fire products, alleging that their Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) led to significant water contamination in their region.

Uptown Injury Firefighting Foam Lawyer

Seeking justice in AFFF lawsuits can be daunting, especially when facing formidable manufacturers with skilled legal teams. Obtaining a fair settlement may prove challenging on your own. Here’s how our lawyers can help you:

✔️ Experience in Mass Tort Cases

You don’t have to worry about big manufacturers intimidating you. At Uptown Injury, our lawyers have 15+ years of experience representing victims in personal injury, medical malpractice, and toxic tort cases. We’re ready to take on the toughest opponents on your behalf.

✔️ Proven Strategies To Win  

We understand the sneaky tactics of insurance companies and the complexities of AFFF lawsuits. Our AFFF lawyers know how to gather rock-solid evidence, bring in expert witnesses, and build a strong argument on your behalf. 

✔️ Fearless Representation

Our lawyers have extensive experience dealing with MDLs in product liability and mass tort cases. We have the expertise to present your case with confidence and conviction before a jury.

✔️ Zero-Risk: No Win, No Fee

You don’t need to worry about upfront costs. We work on a contingency basis, meaning if we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. Your peace of mind is our commitment.

📞 Contact Uptown Injury Today!

Let’s fight together for the justice you deserve. Contact our firefirefighting foam lawyers today at 855-233-8728 to get a free case review. 

AFFF Lawsuit FAQ

Personal injury cases usually have a two-year statute of limitations from the date of discovery. However, the time limit to file a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of your case. 

Therefore, it is essential that you consult with an AFFF lawyer to determine the applicable time limit for your claim.

Typically there are no upfront costs to hire an AFFF lawyer in New York. This is because many lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only charge a percentage of the settlement amount if they win your case. 

However, if there is no settlement, your attorney won’t get paid either. Also, this arrangement allows you to pursue legal action without having to pay attorney fees out of pocket.

The time it takes to settle a firefighting foam lawsuit can vary significantly. In some cases, it may take months or, in others, years to reach a settlement. 

The duration depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, the strength of the evidence, the defendant’s willingness to negotiate a fair settlement, and the court’s caseload.

No, Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is not banned. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed strict regulations on PFAS, which are present in AFFF foam. 

These regulations aim to control the use, disposal, and cleanup of PFAS-containing substances, including AFFF foam, to mitigate their impact.

The AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts could range from $50,000 to $500,00. However, it depends on the specific circumstances of each case, such as the extent of injuries or damages suffered, the strength of the evidence, and the jurisdiction in which the lawsuit is filed.

Potential side effects of AFFF exposure include an increased risk of cancer (such as kidney, testicular, prostate, and bladder cancer), hormone disruption, liver damage, immune system disorders, and developmental delays in children.

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) contains PFAS, which have been associated with cancer. Several studies have shown an increased risk of certain cancers, including kidney, testicular, prostate, and bladder cancer, among individuals exposed to PFAS-containing products like AFFF. Furthermore, PFAS compounds can build up in the blood and stay there for years, adding to long-term health problems.

The parties being held responsible for these AFFF lawsuits could include the manufacturers of firefighting foam, the U.S. Navy as an entity, and potentially other stakeholders involved in the use, distribution, or disposal of the firefighting foam. The lawsuits seek accountability for alleged environmental contamination and health risks associated with AFFF chemicals.

AFFF Lawsuit Blogs

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