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How Many Lawsuits Have Been Filed?
As of October 2022, over 250,000 lawsuits have been filed against 3M by U.S. military veterans, current service members, and others, alleging that the design of 3M Combat Arms earplugs was defective. The plaintiffs claim they suffered hearing loss and tinnitus caused by defective earplug use.
Related Article: 3M Earplug Lawsuits Update
How Many 3M Bellwether Trials Were There?
There were a total of 16 bellwether trials in the litigation. The plaintiffs won 10 of the bellwether trials and the total damages awarded against 3M were approximately $300 million.
What is the Average Individual Settlement for the Lawsuit?
To date, no plaintiff has settled a lawsuit, as the federal litigation has been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) before Judge M. Casey Rogers in the Northern District of Florida (3M Prod. Liab. Lit., MDL No. 2885 – Master Docket No. 3:19-MD-2885). However, jury verdicts and reported settlement amounts in hearing loss cases suggest an average individual settlement compensation from $50,000 to $300,000 in compensation.
How Can 3M Earplugs Cause Tinnitus?
On their own, earplugs do not cause permanent tinnitus. However, permanent tinnitus can result if 3M Combat Arms Earplugs were defective and did not properly protect your ears from hearing damage caused by loud sounds or other harmful noises.
How Long Will it Take for 3M to Settle?
No outcome is guaranteed, but as the bellwether trials have concluded, it seems likely that a global settlement in lawsuits may be reached soon, based on similar mass tort product liability cases.
Related Article: How Long Will the 3M Earplug Lawsuit Take?
What Happens After a Bellwether Trial?
If the results of the bellwether trials do not lead to a settlement agreement, Judge Rodgers will remand the cases back to their local jurisdictions to be tried as individual lawsuits. In other words, the class action then breaks apart, and individual cases are set up for trial across the U.S.
Can I Still Join the Lawsuit?
You may still be able to join the litigation if you meet specific criteria, but you should contact an experienced lawyer to confirm any statutes of limitations you will need to meet. If you miss those deadlines, you could lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
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FAQs
Who Is Eligible to File a Claim in the 3M Hearing Protection Lawsuit?
Veterans and active military members who used the 3M earplugs between 2003 and 2015 and suffered hearing loss or tinnitus are eligible to file a claim in the 3M hearing protection lawsuit.
What Is the Current Status of the 3M Hearing Protection Lawsuit?
The current status of the 3M hearing protection lawsuit is ongoing, with numerous cases being consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL). Settlements and verdicts are being processed, with some plaintiffs already receiving compensation.
How Many People Are in the 3M Lawsuit?
There are more than 276,000 in the 3M lawsuit. Many of these claimants may choose to opt into the settlement instead of proceeding to trial.
Is Anyone Set To Receive Money From 3M?
Yes, over 249,000 veterans are set to receive money from 3M. They are part of the $6 billion settlement from the 3M Combat Arms Earplug lawsuit, as announced in 2023.