Published by
You may be entitled to recover compensation and our legal team can help. Please click the button below for a Free Consultation or call us toll-free 24 hrs/day for legal advice by dialing (866) 588-0600.
If you or a loved one experienced cancer or other serious health complications following exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to these dangerous chemicals. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Table Of Contents
- Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Updates
- PFAS Reports and Statistics
- AFFF Firefighting Foam Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?
- AFFF Firefighting Foam Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits
- FAQs
- 1. Who are the defendants in AFFF lawsuits in Arkansas?
- 2. How do AFFF lawsuits work?
- 3. What are the potential settlement amounts for firefighting foam cancer lawsuits?
- 4. Does firefighting foam contain PFAS?
- 5. How can Arkansas residents prove a direct link between firefighter foam and their health problems?
- 6. Are there any class action lawsuits for firefighter foam exposure in Arkansas?
- 7. What role do environmental regulations play in firefighter foam lawsuits in Arkansas?
- Get a Free Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
- References
Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Overview
AFFF lawsuits in Arkansas primarily target manufacturers like 3M, DuPont, and other producers of firefighting foam. These companies are under fire for alleged negligence and failure to warn about the cancer risks associated with PFAS chemicals in their AFFF products.
Plaintiffs allege that exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam is linked to a variety of cancers, including kidney, testicular, and pancreatic cancer, among others.
Latest Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Updates
Recent updates in the Arkansas firefighter foam lawsuit are reshaping the landscape for those exposed to AFFF’s toxic PFAS chemicals. This legal action is targeting manufacturers who allegedly failed to warn firefighters about the serious cancer risks.
These lawsuits allege that manufacturers like 3M and DuPont have been aware of PFAS toxicity since the 1970s but haven’t taken appropriate actions to mitigate the risks. While these lawsuits are filed across various states, a significant number have been consolidated under a multi-district litigation (MDL) in South Carolina federal court.
PFAS Reports and Statistics
Research indicates firefighters face an elevated risk for multiple types of cancer due to PFAS exposure, according to a 2023 study by the Division of Cancer Epidemiology & Genetics [1]. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified these chemicals, including PFOA and PFOS, as potential human carcinogens.
Current studies are underway to more directly assess the health risks associated with PFAS, including their potential links to cancers, thyroid disease, and pregnancy-induced conditions.
Occupational exposure of firefighters to carcinogenic chemicals may increase their risk of developing different types of cancer. – National Library of Medicine.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Injuries & Side Effects
Given that AFFF contains potentially carcinogenic PFAS chemicals, a variety of serious health conditions have been linked to exposure [2].
- Cancer: Kidney cancer, Testicular cancer, Prostate cancer, Breast cancer, Liver cancer, Pancreatic cancer, Bladder cancer, Ovarian cancer
- Organ Damage: Liver damage, Kidney damage
- Systemic Effects: Immune system dysfunction
- Reproductive Issues: Adverse effects on fetal development and fertility
Do You Qualify for a Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?
You may qualify for an AFFF lawsuit if:
- You have proof of extended exposure to toxic fire-fighting foam.
- You have been diagnosed with a cancer or illness related to PFAS chemical exposure.
- You have a history of using AFFF foam, particularly as a firefighter or military personnel.
- Your cancer diagnosis includes kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, bladder cancer, or liver cancer.
.Family members of persons who have been diagnosed with cancer due to AFFF exposure and meet the criteria can also be entitled to compensation through filing AFFF lawsuits.
Evidence Required for an Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit
Critical evidence for AFFF lawsuits includes:
- Medical records
- Cancer diagnosis information
- Employment records
- History of AFFF exposure
- Personal and witness testimonies
Damages You Can Recover
Damages claimed in AFFF lawsuits can cover the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost earning ability
- Other compensatory and punitive damages
Punitive damages are potentially recoverable in these lawsuits if evidence shows that the defendant’s actions were willfully negligent or deliberately harmful.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Recall Information
AFFF contains a group of artificial chemicals known as PFAS (Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), including PFOA and PFOS, which have been linked to various health issues [3]. These chemicals are known for their resistance to breaking down in the environment, leading to their nickname ‘forever chemicals’.
AFFF is a type of firefighting foam used primarily by airport and military firefighters to extinguish fires effectively [4]. It’s known for its effectiveness in fighting oil and fuel fires, which are common in aviation accidents.
Statute of Limitations for AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits
The Arkansas statute of limitations for filing an AFFF lawsuit is typically 2-3 years from the date of injury.
However, Arkansas has a “discovery rule” that may extend the statute of limitations to allow the filing of a lawsuit until the plaintiff becomes aware of the injury and its connection to the defendant’s negligence.
FAQs
1. Who are the defendants in AFFF lawsuits in Arkansas?
The defendants include prominent AFFF manufacturers such as 3M, DuPont, Buckeye Fire Protection, and Tyco Fire Products. These companies are being sued for their alleged negligence and failure to warn about the health risks associated with their firefighting foam products.
2. How do AFFF lawsuits work?
AFFF lawsuits work by gathering evidence, filing a complaint, and seeking compensation for damages. Once filed, the discovery phase follows, where both sides exchange information and evidence. Negotiations may take place to settle, but if a settlement is not reached, the case may go to trial.
3. What are the potential settlement amounts for firefighting foam cancer lawsuits?
Top-tier AFFF firefighting foam cases may see average settlement amounts ranging from $300,000 to $600,000. Lower-tier cases are estimated to have a potential settlement value of $150,000 to $280,000. Actual amounts vary based on case specifics.
4. Does firefighting foam contain PFAS?
Yes, firefighting foam does contain PFAS chemicals, which are known for their resistance to breaking down in the environment. Exposure to PFAS is associated with a range of adverse health effects, including reproductive and developmental harm, hormonal disruption, and various forms of cancer.
5. How can Arkansas residents prove a direct link between firefighter foam and their health problems?
Residents can prove a direct link by providing medical records, exposure evidence, and expert testimonies, and demonstrating that health issues correlate with known harmful chemicals in firefighter foam.
6. Are there any class action lawsuits for firefighter foam exposure in Arkansas?
Yes, there are class action lawsuits for firefighter foam exposure in Arkansas. These lawsuits involve groups of affected individuals seeking compensation collectively for similar health issues caused by foam exposure.
7. What role do environmental regulations play in firefighter foam lawsuits in Arkansas?
Environmental regulations are crucial as they set standards for chemical use and waste management. In lawsuits, violations of these regulations can support claims of negligence and health risks associated with foam.
Related Articles:
See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get a Free Arkansas AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action for AFFF exposure. With the statute of limitations typically only 2-3 years from the date of injury in Arkansas, it’s crucial to act promptly.
If you or a loved one have suffered due to exposure to toxic firefighting foam, Schmidt & Clark, LLP is ready to assist. We specialize in handling such cases and are committed to guiding you at every step.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:
- Free, confidential consultations
- No upfront costs or fees
- Payment only if we win your case