Vermont Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

The water contamination issue at Camp Lejeune has led to numerous health complications for those exposed, instigating a wave of legal action, such as the Vermont Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit.

The recent enactment of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 has turned over a new leaf, offering a beacon of hope for affected families.

This article will explore the Vermont Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit issue, shedding light on the cause, the legal proceedings, and how Vermont families can navigate this turbulent situation.

If injuries have occurred to you or a family member due to exposure to the water contamination at Camp Lejeune, rest assured that the committed team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready and able to assist you.

As a law firm with national recognition and a specialization in plaintiff’s cases, our ultimate mission is to ensure you receive the justice and rightful compensation that you are due.

Vermont Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

The Camp Lejeune water contamination issue has long troubled numerous families, acting as a silent adversary. The passing of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 changed everything, providing Vermont residents affected by the water contamination a means to pursue legal action.

The Act empowers victims to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit offering a path towards compensation and, ultimately, justice.

Achieving justice is a long process, fraught with obstacles and challenges. However, with the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, the finish line is in sight. The Act acknowledges the hardship endured by the affected families and equips them with the means to assert their rights.

Also Read: Toxic Water Served for Decades

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Justice Act of 2022

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 is more than just a piece of legislation. It is a beacon of hope for those who have suffered due to the water contamination at Camp Lejeune [1]. The Act provides a legal pathway for victims to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit and receive compensation for illnesses caused by exposure.

The Act goes beyond financial compensation, acknowledging the suffering of those exposed to the contaminated water and validating their hardships.

The deadline for filing a lawsuit under the Act is August 10, 2024. This gives victims ample time to gather the necessary documentation and build their case, ensuring they have a fair shot at justice.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Updates

Keeping abreast of the progress of the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits is important for affected families. To date, over 1,100 Camp Lejeune lawsuits have been filed nationwide, highlighting the widespread impact of the contamination. The estimated settlement payouts are substantial, totaling approximately $6.7 billion.

Recent developments include:

• A cap on legal fees to prevent attorneys from receiving disproportionately high sums
• Ongoing investigations and lawsuits
• The ability to file new lawsuits thanks to the Camp Lejeune Justice Act

This is a testament to the unwavering commitment to seek justice for the victims.

The Cause Of the Contamination in the Groundwater at Camp Lejeune

The root of the problem lies in the contamination of the water at Camp Lejeune. Over the years, chemicals seeped into the water supply from various sources. These included chemical spills and leaks from an off-base dry cleaning facility and an underground fuel tank at the base itself.

The contamination wasn’t a one-off incident but a consistent and prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals over three decades, from 1953 to 1987.

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 TCE, PCE, and benzene, chemicals. The maximum concentration of TCE detected in the water was a staggering 1,400 ppb, a dangerously high level [2].

The existence of these chemicals in the water supply resembles a dormant threat, capable of causing severe health issues. The Camp Lejeune authorities concealed the facts, even going as far as submitting a false report to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1983.

This lack of transparency aggravated the situation, leaving residents unaware of the danger they were exposed to.

Health Issues Due To Exposure to These Chemicals

Exposure to toxic chemicals is not without its consequences. For the residents of Camp Lejeune, these consequences manifested as a myriad of health issues. Studies have indicated an increased risk of the following health problems for those exposed to contaminated water:

• 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

The toxic chemicals in the water didn’t just poison the residents; they altered the course of their lives, casting a long and dark shadow on their health.

“A new study published by JAMA Neurology (the American Medical Association’s peer-reviewed monthly journal) finds that those who were exposed to the volatile organic compounds in the water at Camp Lejeune have a 70% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.”- Camp Lejeune Claims Center

Who Qualifies For a Vermont Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Settlement?

Individuals who have suffered from water contamination and have spent at least 30 days on the base during the period of contamination qualify for a Vermont Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement.

Eligibility is not limited to service members alone. Veterans, family members, civilians, and even those in utero who used the contaminated water may file a Camp Lejeune water lawsuit, provided they meet certain eligibility requirements. The door to justice is not closed to anyone affected by the contamination.

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

Initiating a lawsuit serves not only to seek justice but also to claim compensation for the damages endured. Victims of the Camp Lejeune water contamination can seek compensation for a range of damages, including:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages
• Emotional Distress
• Punitive Damages

The compensation awarded can range from $100,000 to $550,000, depending on the medical condition the claimant has been diagnosed with.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Vermont

The settlement amounts for a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit can fluctuate considerably based on a variety of factors. These include the severity of the illness or injury and whether the victim is still alive.

The estimated Camp Lejeune settlement amount for water contamination lawsuits in Vermont may range between $100,000 and $550,000 under the Elective Option.

While the financial compensation can never fully make up for the physical and emotional distress caused by the contamination, it can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with medical expenses and lost wages.

Filing a Vermont Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Initiating a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit in Vermont might appear overwhelming, but it need not be so. Vermont residents can initiate a lawsuit by reaching out to professionals who specialize in Camp Lejeune claims.

These legal experts provide guidance and support throughout the entire process, helping affected families navigate the complexities of the legal system.

The legal process has a ticking clock attached to it. The time frame for filing a lawsuit in Vermont is two years. Meeting this deadline is vital, as failure to do so may preclude the possibility of obtaining compensation. It’s important to act promptly and begin the legal process as soon as you’re ready.

Deadline for Filing a Lawsuit

The deadline for filing a lawsuit is a significant date that every claimant must take note of. The cutoff date for filing a Camp Lejeune contaminated water lawsuit is August 10, 2024.

Failing to meet this deadline can have serious repercussions, including losing the opportunity to obtain compensation for health issues caused by the Camp Lejeune water contamination.

Gathering Necessary Documentation

When it comes to filing a lawsuit, documentation is key. The necessary documentation for a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit may include:

• Evidence of residence at Camp Lejeune
• Medical records demonstrating injuries related to water contamination
• Documents verifying relationships (such as marriage licenses or birth certificates)
• The DD214 form for service members

Securing these documents might appear to be an overwhelming task, but it is a requisite step in the process. Medical records can be obtained by requesting military records and gathering documentation demonstrating a dependent relationship to a veteran who served at Camp Lejeune.

Expert testimonials also play a crucial role in the lawsuit, providing scientific evidence to support the Camp Lejeune claim. Navigating the Veterans Affairs system can be challenging, but it is essential for obtaining the necessary documentation.

Related Articles:

• Tennessee Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit
• Texas Camp Lejune Water Contamination
• Utah Dakota Camp Lejune Water Contamination Lawsuit

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

FAQs

1. How Long Do You Have to File a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?

The time limit to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit is generally within two years from the enactment of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

2. What Will Be the Average Settlement for Camp Lejeune Victims?

Average settlements for Camp Lejeune victims vary widely based on individual circumstances, including the severity of health issues and evidence presented, typically ranging from thousands to millions of dollars.

3. Do You Have to Pay Taxes on Camp Lejeune Settlement?

No, compensation received from Camp Lejeune settlements for personal physical injuries or illnesses is generally not taxable under federal tax laws.

Get Your Free Case Review From Vermont Camp Lejeune Attorneys

If the water contamination at Camp Lejeune has impacted you or a loved one, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Schmidt & Clark, LLP. Our team has a wealth of experience in dealing with cases like these and is ready to support you every step of the way.

We believe in your right to be fully informed about your legal rights and potential eligibility for a lawsuit. Rest easy knowing that our consultations are entirely free, and you won’t be charged a dime unless we win your case.

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

Reference:

1. https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/veteranservices/learning/pact-act-2022/-pact-act-va-fact-sheets/2022_NVLSP_Camp_LeJeune_FAQ_.pdf
2. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/chem_descriptions.html