North Dakota Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

The enormity of the “North Dakota Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit” cannot be overstated, with its ripple effects reaching as far as North Dakota. The struggle for justice is as potent as the toxins once coursing through Camp Lejeune’s waters.

Should you or a family member have sustained injuries due to exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, the committed team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, stands ready to assist you.

North Dakota Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

North Dakota residents affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination find hope in legal recourse. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, a symbol of their struggle, provides an avenue to seek reparation for the harm they’ve suffered [1].

Though the legal process may seem overwhelming for a victim, appropriate guidance from Camp Lejeune attorneys makes it navigable. Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits filed in North Dakota are typically consolidated with others from across the country, ensuring each plaintiff receives a settlement based on their injuries and damages.

The United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina has formed a seven-member leadership team to manage the ongoing Camp Lejeune litigation.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Justice Act of 2022

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 acts as a beacon for victims of the contaminated Camp Lejeune water crisis at the military base. It enables individuals who have experienced health issues due to contaminated water exposure at the base to pursue compensation through lawsuits.

From those who resided at the base to those who were employed there, even unborn children adversely impacted by the contamination are eligible to initiate a toxic water lawsuit in the US District Court in Eastern North Carolina.

The journey to justice under the Act involves several stages. Plaintiffs must first submit their claim to the relevant federal agency and have it denied before they can initiate a civil lawsuit.

Suppose the claim involves a cancer lawsuit. In that case, the plaintiff must provide evidence linking their cancer diagnosis to the contaminated water exposure at the base.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates

Given the unfolding legal proceedings, keeping abreast of the progress of the Camp Lejeune lawsuits is beneficial. As of December 2023:

• More than 45,000 claims have been filed in the Eastern District of North Carolina
• 1,067 cases have been filed since February 2023
• Over 70,000 administrative claims have been filed with the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG)
• Four settlements totaling $1 million have been paid out thus far.

The Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Justice Act of 2022 has opened a pathway for Camp Lejeune veterans and their families to seek justice. A seven-member leadership team of Camp Lejeune lawyers from various law firms has been assembled to represent the plaintiffs.

The Role of Federal Government and Eastern District Court in Camp Lejeune Cases

The role of the federal government and Eastern District Court in addressing and resolving Camp Lejeune water contamination cases is pivotal. These institutions serve as the guardians of justice, ensuring that the rights of the affected individuals are upheld and that they receive the compensation they deserve.

The Eastern District Court in North Carolina, which has authority over cases from numerous counties, is where CLJA claimants are required to lodge their civil lawsuits.

This court has been instrumental in overseeing the litigation process for Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits, including hearing arguments, reviewing evidence, and issuing rulings on various legal issues.

The federal government has initiated measures to hold the military responsible for the water contamination at Camp Lejeune. It has allowed those affected to pursue legal action and seek compensation for any harm caused by exposure to the contaminated water.

Congress has also approved legislation to provide relief and benefits to veterans, survivors, and their families affected by the water contamination.

The Cause Of the Contamination in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune

Determining the cause of the groundwater contamination at Camp Lejeune involves unraveling a series of harmful elements. The investigation traced the contaminated drinking water back to a cocktail of toxic chemicals.

The primary sources of these carcinogenic chemicals at Camp Lejeune were:

• a fuel leakage from an underground fuel tank
• improper disposal of chemicals from off-base dry cleaning facilities
• the use of heavy chemicals for on-base equipment cleaning

The most influential factor of water contamination at Camp Lejeune was the chemical PCE.

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 PCE, TCE, VC, and benzene [2].

PCE, an industrial chemical used in the production of refrigerants and other hydrofluorocarbons, was employed as a solvent and degreaser on metal military equipment at Camp Lejeune.

PCE is a hazardous chemical, classified as a probable human carcinogen, with harmful effects on the central nervous system, liver, and kidneys.

Furthermore, PCE exposure has been linked to a range of health issues, including cancer, reproductive problems, and neurological disorders. The potential health effects of TCE exposure can be devastating to affected communities.

Health Issues Due To Exposure to These Chemicals

The health effects of exposure to these toxic chemicals in Camp Lejeune’s groundwater are as varied as they are severe. Various health issues and illnesses have been linked to this exposure, 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
• Wrongful Death

Exposure to PCE and TCE can lead to serious illnesses, and the potential health effects of TCE exposure can be devastating to affected communities.

The consequences of benzene contamination in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune include potential health effects, such as an increased risk of miscarriage, pregnancy and birth complications, and long-term health issues.

Who Qualifies For A North Dakota Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Settlement?

Residents of North Dakota who resided or were employed at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, qualify for a North Dakota Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement.

It is not enough to have been present at Camp Lejeune during the period of contamination; claimants must also demonstrate that they have suffered adverse health effects as a result of their exposure to the contaminated water.

These health effects could include a range of conditions, from cancer and birth defects to liver and kidney injuries, among others.

Also Read: Toxic Water Served for Decades

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

In the quest for justice, understanding the damages recoverable from a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit is key. Damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering can be claimed.

Certain illnesses and conditions may be eligible for reimbursement of medical bills and healthcare expenses incurred as a result of the contamination. Some examples include:

• Respiratory problems
• Skin rashes
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Neurological disorders

Lost wages are typically calculated based on the income that the individual would have earned if they had not been affected by the contamination.

Pain and suffering in a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit may encompass emotional distress, physical discomfort, and diminishment of quality of life.

“The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of the General Counsel urges Camp Lejeune victims to file claims for VA benefits, which include health care and financial payouts for disability.”- Camp Lejeune Claims Center

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in North Dakota

Being aware of the potential settlement amounts for North Dakota residents engaged in Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits forms an integral part of the legal process. It is anticipated that the average individual settlement for Parkinson’s disease cases may range between $1 million and $1.5 million.

The compensation of a Camp Lejeune lawsuit settlement is contingent upon factors such as the illness or injury sustained and the victim’s current status. In North Dakota, three victims have accepted settlements totaling $850,000.

Filing a North Dakota Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

To file a Camp Lejeune water claim for harm caused by the Camp Lejeune water contamination can often be the most challenging step for North Dakota residents. Filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit involves several key steps.

In the pursuit of justice, medical records act as a guide, leading the way. They are of paramount importance in Camp Lejeune water contamination litigation, as they provide concrete evidence of the damage caused by the water contamination, health conditions, and illnesses suffered by the affected individuals.

Preparing for the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Deadline

The deadline for the Camp Lejeune lawsuit is relentless, much like the ticking of a clock. For North Dakota residents seeking compensation, it is a date etched in stone, a date that cannot be ignored.

The Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit must be filed before August 10, 2024 [3]. After that date, claims cannot be filed. It is essential to act quickly and file before the deadline to guarantee eligibility for compensation.

Related Articles:

• North Carolina Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit
• New Mexico Camp Lejune Water Contamination
• New York Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit

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

FAQs

1. How Can North Dakota Residents Find Out If Their Health Issues Are Connected to Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

North Dakota residents can find out if their health issues are connected to Camp Lejeune water contamination by consulting with healthcare providers knowledgeable about the contaminants and reviewing their medical history for conditions linked to exposure.

2. What Kind of Support Is Available For North Dakota Veterans Affected by Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

North Dakota veterans affected by Camp Lejeune water contamination can access support through the VA, which offers healthcare benefits and compensation for conditions linked to the contamination.

3. How Has the Contamination at Camp Lejeune Impacted Families in North Dakota?

The contamination at Camp Lejeune has impacted families by causing long-term health challenges, financial burdens due to medical expenses, and difficulties in accessing specialized healthcare and obtaining legal compensation for their health issues.

Get Your Free Consultation From a North Dakota Camp Lejeune Lawyer

At Schmidt and Clark, LLP we’re committed to providing support during these challenging times. If you or a loved one has suffered due to the water contamination at Camp Lejeune, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team has extensive experience with these types of cases and is ready to guide you every step of the way.

You are entitled to know your legal rights and potential eligibility for a Camp Lejeune Water lawsuit. We assure you that our consultations are always free, and you won’t face any charges unless we achieve a positive result for your case.

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

Reference:

1. https://www.va.gov/files/2022-12/Camp%20Lejeune%20FAQ%20V12.6.22%201030hrs.pdf
2. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/chem_descriptions.html
3. https://www.elglaw.com/faq/camp-lejeune-lawsuit-deadline/