New Mexico Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Thousands of military personnel, civilian workers, and their families stationed at Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina, discovered that the water they and their families had been drinking for years was contaminated with toxic chemicals.

The contaminated water crisis at Camp Lejeune has led to a series of lawsuits, including those filed by New Mexico residents who were affected by the water contamination.

If you or a loved one has suffered from injuries as a result of your exposure to Camp Lejeune’s water contamination, the dedicated team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is prepared to provide you with assistance.

As a nationally recognized law firm specializing in plaintiff’s cases, our primary goal is to secure the justice and rightful compensation you deserve.

New Mexico Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

The Camp Lejeune water contamination crisis has led to numerous Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits filed by affected individuals, including residents of New Mexico who lived or worked at the base between 1953 and 1987.

These lawsuits seek compensation for the devastating health consequences suffered by the victims due to exposure to toxic chemicals in the contaminated water.

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 was enacted in response to this crisis, offering a legal foundation for Camp Lejeune claims. Victims, with help from seasoned Camp Lejeune attorneys, can work through the intricate legal process to pursue just compensation for their suffering.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Justice Act of 2022

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 provides victims of contaminated water at Camp Lejeune with the ability to take legal action against the US government for compensation [1].

The act outlines the eligibility requirements for filing a claim, which includes individuals exposed to the contaminated water for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.

This legislation allows for the filing of personal injury claims and wrongful death lawsuits by the affected individuals and their family members, who can seek legal assistance from specialized Camp Lejeune lawyers.

Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, claimants must follow these steps:

1. File a claim with the relevant federal agency, such as the Department of Defense, within two years from the passage of the law.
2. The federal agency is required to assess the claim and respond within six months.
3. Suppose the agency denies the claim or does not respond within the designated time frame. In that case, the claimant has the right to proceed with filing a civil lawsuit in federal court.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates

There have been several updates regarding the progress of Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits in New Mexico. Attorneys representing the US government and plaintiffs have requested that the cases be consolidated under one judge or that the court oversee pretrial proceedings in the litigation in a coordinated manner within the New Mexico legal system.

The Clerk of Court has been instructed to maintain a Master Docket case file titled “In re: Camp LeJeune Water Litigation.” He/She has also been provided with additional directives for all PACT Act cases.

The Cause Of the Contamination in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune

The contamination at Camp Lejeune can be traced back to several sources, including contaminated Camp Lejeune water, which resulted from:

• Toxic waste dumping
• A large fuel leakage of approximately 800,000 gallons from underground storage tanks at the base.
• Off-base dry cleaning facilities improperly dispose of chemicals.
• On-base personnel using heavy chemicals to clean equipment.

Given that thousands of military service members and their families, as well as civilian employees and contractors, lived and worked at Camp Lejeune during the period of contamination, the impact of this environmental disaster has been far-reaching and devastating.

The tragedy of the Camp Lejeune water contamination underscores the significance of environmental responsibility and the possible consequences of negligence.

Related Article: What Caused Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

What Toxic Chemicals Were Found in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune?

Toxic chemicals that were found in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune include perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE) [2].

“PCE was the primary contaminant found in the wells serving the Tarawa Terrace system. The chemical was used by an off-base dry cleaner (ABC One-Hour Cleaners), and the groundwater became contaminated with PCE as a result of spills and improper disposal practices.”- National Library of Medicine

The presence of these toxic chemicals in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune has had severe consequences for those who lived and worked at the base during the period of contamination.

Also Read: Toxic Water Served for Decades

Health Issues Due To Exposure to These Chemicals

Exposure to the toxic chemicals found in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune has led to a wide range of health issues for those affected. Research has indicated that exposure to these chemicals can result in serious health problems such as cancer, birth defects, and neurological disorders.

Evidence also suggests that exposure to TCE during pregnancy may lead to congenital heart defects. Moreover, research has linked exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to various adult cancers and more conditions, including:

• Reproductive Issues
• Birth Defects
• Leukemia
• Multiple Myeloma
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Bladder Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Renal Toxicity
• Esophageal Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Hepatic Steatosis
• Prostate Cancer
• Miscarriage Fetal Death
• Neurobehavioral Effects
• Lung Cancer
• Scleroderma
• Aplastic Anemia
• Cervical Cancer

The health consequences of exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune have been life-changing for those affected, initiating a lengthy and challenging pursuit of justice and compensation for their suffering.

Who Qualifies For A New Mexico Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Settlement?

Individuals who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between 1953 and 1987 and suffered health issues as a result of exposure to the contaminated water qualify for a New Mexico Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement.

Family members of those who resided or were employed at Camp Lejeune during this period are also eligible for compensation if they can demonstrate that their health issues were caused by exposure to the contaminated water.

Potential claimants should compile essential documentation, such as medical records and proof of exposure, to successfully file a claim.

Working with an experienced Camp Lejeune lawyer can help ensure that the claim is comprehensive and accurate, increasing the chances of obtaining fair compensation for the suffering they have endured.

Damages That You Can Recover From a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Victims of Camp Lejeune water contamination can recover several types of damages in a lawsuit. These damages can include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Other losses resulting from the injuries caused by exposure to the contaminated water

The specific compensation amounts will vary depending on the severity of the injuries and the strength of the evidence presented in each case.

For example, the typical compensation for medical expenses in a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit can range from $25,000 to $1 million or more per person.

Lost wages resulting from time absent from work due to injuries can also be claimed, along with compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injuries.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in New Mexico

The settlement amounts for New Mexico Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits will vary based on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the injuries and the strength of the evidence presented in the case.

It is estimated that the maximum settlement amount paid in New Mexico for a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit ranges from $170,000 to $220,000.

Compensation amounts for health conditions caused by the Camp Lejeune water contamination can range from $100,000 to $550,000, depending on the severity of the medical condition the claimant has been diagnosed with.

Even though settlement amounts can differ, victims should collaborate with seasoned Camp Lejeune lawyers who can guide them through the intricate legal process and help them secure the compensation they rightfully deserve.

A well-prepared case and strong legal representation can greatly increase the chances of obtaining a favorable settlement amount.

Filing a New Mexico Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Submitting a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit in New Mexico requires multiple steps, such as collecting evidence, filing a claim, and working through the legal process with the guidance of a seasoned attorney.

Proper documentation and adherence to legal procedures are crucial when filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit. Potential plaintiffs must first submit their claim to the relevant federal agency and await its response before filing a lawsuit in federal court.

Working with an experienced attorney can help ensure that all necessary documentation is collected and submitted accurately, increasing the chances of a successful claim. This includes medical records, proof of exposure to the contaminated water, and any other relevant evidence that can strengthen the case.

The Role of Medical Records in Building a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit

Medical records are essential in constructing a robust Camp Lejeune lawsuit. They serve as evidence of health issues caused by exposure to contaminated water. Essential documentation includes:

• Documented symptoms
• Diagnosis
• Test and imaging results
• Medications
• Surgery
• Any other relevant medical documentation

Overcoming Statute Limitations

Surmounting statute limitations in New Mexico Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits may necessitate legal proficiency and an in-depth comprehension of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

The statute of limitations for environmental contamination lawsuits in New Mexico varies depending on the type of claim being made, with a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including negligence [3].

Related Articles:

• New Jersey Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit
• Nevada Camp Lejune Water Contamination
• New Hampshire Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. How Can New Mexico Residents Confirm Their Eligibility For the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit?

New Mexico residents can confirm their eligibility by determining if they lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987. They should also check if they have been diagnosed with any of the health conditions recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as being linked to the contamination.

2. What Documentation Do New Mexico Residents Need To Support Their Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Claim?

New Mexico residents need documentation such as proof of residence or employment at Camp Lejeune, medical records showing a diagnosis of related health conditions, and military service records if applicable.

3. How Can New Mexico Residents Access Healthcare Benefits Related to Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

New Mexico residents can access healthcare benefits through the VA by applying for benefits related to Camp Lejeune contamination. They need to provide evidence of their exposure and related health conditions.

Get Your Free Consultation From New Mexico Camp Lejeune Lawyers

At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we’re committed to supporting you in challenging times. If you or a loved one has been affected by the hazardous water at Camp Lejeune, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team has a wealth of experience in dealing with such cases and is ready to guide you through each step of the process.

You deserve to know your legal rights and potential eligibility for a Camp Lejeune cancer lawsuit. We offer free consultations, and you won’t face any charges unless we achieve a positive outcome for your case.

Contact Schmidt and Clark today for a thorough review of your case. Allow us to be your reliable ally in this journey.

Reference:

1. https://news.va.gov/114142/new-measure-camp-lejeune-file-lawsuits/
2. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/chem_descriptions.html
3. https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/2021/chapter-37/article-1/section-37-1-8/