Ohio Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Recent developments in the Ohio Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit have introduced new opportunities for those affected by the toxic exposure. With the enactment of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, countless victims are now able to seek justice through the courts.

But what does this mean for you? How can you find out if you qualify to be part of this litigation? And what steps should you take to secure the compensation you deserve?

In this article, we delve into these crucial questions and explain how Schmidt & Clark, LLP can assist you in navigating this complex legal landscape. Stay with us to uncover the essential information you need to pursue your claim effectively.

Ohio Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

The Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit in Ohio represents a pursuit of justice for Ohioans impacted by the toxic drinking water of Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base camp located near Jacksonville, North Carolina. During the 1970s, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identified Camp Lejeune as a significant source of pollution.

The lawsuit seeks to hold the federal government accountable for the health fallout caused by the contaminated water at the base. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 has become a beacon of hope for these victims, offering them a legal pathway to seek compensation for their sufferings.

The journey towards justice is not confined to the service members alone. The lawsuit extends its scope to include family members, civilian employees, and contractors who were exposed to the toxic water at the base.

Initiating a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit is a well-structured process. A reputable law firm with experienced Camp Lejeune lawyers is providing comprehensive legal aid to the victims, guiding them through the complex maze of legal procedures.

Also Read: Toxic Water Served for Decades

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Justice Act of 2022

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 marks a significant milestone in the quest for justice for Camp Lejeune victims. It empowers the victims, granting them the opportunity to pursue legal action for compensation [1].

The eligibility to file a lawsuit under this Act extends to individuals who were exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune for 30 days between 1953 and 1987.

However, keep in mind that the North Carolina law does not recognize all lawsuits under the Act. Claims unrelated to the toxic water exposure at Lejeune or those that do not involve physical injuries are not authorized. Also, documentary evidence is preferred to validate the residency criteria for filing a lawsuit.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates

The quest for justice for the victims of Camp Lejeune water contamination is an ongoing process, with continual emergence of new developments and case progress.

As of now, an astounding figure of over 45,000 Camp Lejeune water contamination claims have been filed, with the number of meritorious claims estimated to range from 100,000 to 125,000.

The central allegation in every Camp Lejeune lawsuit revolves around the United States’ negligence in allowing contaminants to enter the Camp Lejeune water supply and not warning people when they should have been aware of the potential consequences, which included death.

The government’s response to the lawsuits has been underwhelming. It states that the majority of the lawsuits lack sufficient detail.

The plaintiffs’ lawyers argue that the government is treating these cases as typical negligence cases, not acknowledging the specific provisions of the new Camp Lejeune Justice Act, which explicitly authorizes these claims.

Ohio’s Role in the Broader Camp Lejeune Litigation Landscape

Ohio plays a significant role in the broader Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits. The residents of Ohio, affected by the water contamination, have been relentless in their pursuit of justice, actively advocating for their cause and diligently working with attorneys to pursue their claims.

While Ohio’s government is not directly involved in assisting the residents affected by the contamination, the Camp Lejeune Claims Center and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have been instrumental in helping the victims receive financial benefits.

Despite the lack of a specific number of lawsuits filed in Ohio, it is clear that Ohio’s residents have been proactive in seeking justice.

What Was The Cause Of the Contamination in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune?

The cause of the contamination in the groundwater at Camp Lejeune was leaking underground storage tanks and waste disposal sites. Analysis revealed the presence of Benzene, PCE, and TCE at concentrations 340-2400 times higher than the safe exposure levels for humans.

“Multiple sources likely contributed to the TCE contamination, including on-base spills at industrial sites and leaks from underground storage tanks and drums at dumps and storage lots.”- National Library of Medicine

The contamination is not limited to these chemicals. The water at Camp Lejeune was polluted with numerous toxic chemicals, which posed a serious health hazard to those living on the base. Besides, the base’s waste disposal strategy played a significant role in exacerbating the contamination.

The strategy involved discharging oil and industrial wastewater down storm drains and interring radioactive materials and dead animals used in chemical tests.

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 Benzene, PCE, TCE, and seventy other chemicals [2].

These chemicals are not just mere names but harbingers of a host of health issues ranging from various types of cancer to reproductive issues, birth defects, and Parkinson’s disease.

Health Issues Due To Exposure to These Chemicals

The toxic chemicals in Camp Lejeune’s water supply were not just detrimental to the environment. Still, they took a heavy toll on human health as well.

Research has indicated a correlation between the toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune and a spectrum of 15 illnesses and medical conditions, including various types of cancer, reproductive issues, congenital disabilities, and Parkinson’s disease.

Here is the complete list of health issues caused by this environmental disaster:

• 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

Who Qualifies For an Ohio Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Settlement?

Individuals who have had health problems due to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps base, as well as their families, qualify for an Ohio Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement. To receive damages, they must satisfy particular requirements.

Camp Lejeune veterans, service members, and civilian contractors who were present during the contamination must all be taken into consideration. Their inclusion is part of this initiative.

The families of those who sadly lost their loved ones due to illnesses resulting from Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water may be entitled to compensation. This includes costs such as funeral expenses, lost income contribution, and loss of parental guidance.

The eligibility criteria for an Ohio Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement are broad. Ohio residents who were exposed to contaminated water sources at home, work, daycare, or school between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, are eligible to file a Camp Lejeune claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA).

Eligibility requires that they have lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days.

What Damages Can You Recover From a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit?

The damages that you can recover from a Camp Lejeune water contamination include economic damages, such as lost wages and medical bills, and non-economic damages, which are not tangible but still have a considerable impact on a plaintiff’s quality of life.

Non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, are typically evaluated based on factors such as the intensity of the injuries, the effect on the victim’s quality of life, and the duration of the pain and suffering.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Ohio

The anticipation for justice is not just about holding the guilty accountable; it’s also about the hope for compensation that can help ease the burden of medical expenses and other financial hardships that the Camp Lejeune claimants have had to endure.

In the context of the Ohio Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit, the estimated value of these water contamination claims may exceed $500,000.00 per injured claimant.

However, keep in mind that the compensation amounts depend on the unique circumstances of each case. The two-tiered proposed settlement structure takes into account the type of illnesses experienced by each plaintiff and the duration of their exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

It is anticipated that the Camp Lejeune settlement amounts will be between $100,000.00 and $250,000.00. This range could provide significant compensation to the affected veterans.

Filing an Ohio Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing an Ohio Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit is a significant step towards seeking justice for the harm inflicted by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

For this, it’s imperative to understand the required steps and necessary documentation. The required documents typically comprise:

• Medical records
• Evidence of service
• Evidence of residency on base
• DD Form 214 (DD214)
• Other service records

While an Ohio resident can file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit without a lawyer, it’s advisable to seek legal counsel to ensure the legal process is handled efficiently.

Attorneys play a critical role in an Ohio Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit. They offer legal advice and representation to individuals impacted by the toxic water at Camp Lejeune, helping their clients with:

• Understanding the legal process
• Compiling relevant evidence
• Submitting the necessary paperwork
• Fighting for their rights in court

The Statute of Limitations for Ohio Camp Lejeune Lawsuits

Comprehending the statute of limitations for Ohio Camp Lejeune lawsuits is important for making sure the filing is done on time. Generally, the statute of limitations for Ohio Camp Lejeune lawsuits is two years from the date the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 was enacted.

This means that Ohio residents must file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit within two years of the date the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 was enacted.

Related Articles:

• North Carolina Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit
• North Dakota 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 Much Is the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Payout per Person?

The Camp Lejeune lawsuit payout per person varies widely based on individual cases, including the severity of health issues and duration of exposure. Consult an attorney for specific compensation estimates.

2. Who Was Responsible for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

The U.S. Marine Corps and government contractors are held responsible for the water contamination at Camp Lejeune due to negligence in maintaining and monitoring the water supply systems.

3. What Caused Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune?

Water contamination at Camp Lejeune was caused by leaking storage tanks, industrial spills, and improper waste disposal, leading to harmful chemicals like TCE, PCE, benzene, and vinyl chloride.

4. Has Anyone Received Money From the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?

Yes, some victims and their families have received compensation through settlements and legal claims for health issues related to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, though cases vary.

Get Your Free Consultation From Ohio Camp Lejeune Attorneys

Schmidt and Clark, LLP are at your service in these critical moments. Should you or a loved one have experienced harm due to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team, skilled in such matters, will support and guide you through each step.

Understanding your legal options and the possibility of filing a lawsuit is your right. Our consultations are complimentary, and we operate on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if we achieve a positive result in your case.

For a thorough assessment of your situation, get in touch with Schmidt and Clark. Allow us to be your dependable ally in this process.

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