Connecticut Firefighter Foam Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

As a Connecticut firefighter potentially impacted by AFFF, the evolving legal landscape can be difficult to navigate. This article provides a straightforward look at the Connecticut firefighter foam lawsuit and its progression, framing your rights and outlining actionable steps for joining the fight against the manufacturers responsible for cancer-linked foam exposure.

If you or someone you know has been affected by exposure to firefighting foam, Schmidt & Clark LLP is prepared to offer support. Recognized for our proficiency in championing the cause of plaintiffs, our primary goal is to ensure that you receive the justice and compensation that is rightfully yours.

Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuits

Connecticut is embroiled in a legal dispute with AFFF manufacturers, blaming them for exposing firefighters to hazardous substances. Since 1969, AFFF has been in use at military installations and airports across Connecticut, establishing a long potential exposure period to these harmful chemicals.

The state’s legal efforts have been fueled by the widespread use of AFFF, particularly by the military, at bases and airports within its borders.

The legal actions initiated against these manufacturers reflect the seriousness of the situation. With a plethora of cancer claims being laid at their door, these lawsuits have become a beacon of hope for affected firefighters aiming for justice.

The situation is complex, with the nefarious effects of AFFF exposure manifesting years later, making the connection between cause and effect challenging to establish.

Connecticut’s firefighter foam lawsuits are just a segment of a larger, nationwide legal brawl against the producers of this toxic firefighting foam.

With a shared objective of justice and compensation for the victims, these afff firefighting foam lawsuit cases are a pivotal step towards holding the manufacturers accountable for their actions in the firefighting foam lawsuit.

Key Points from Lawsuits

The central issue in the lawsuits is the manufacturer’s failure to disclose the health risks tied to PFAS chemicals in AFFF. These chemicals have led to cancer diagnoses among firefighters and military personnel, who were kept in the dark about the dangers they were exposed to.

This lack of transparency is a critical element in the litigation, highlighting the manufacturers’ disregard for human health in pursuit of profit.

The AFFF cancer lawsuit, along with other AFFF lawsuits, represents not just individual cancer claims but a collective outcry for justice and demand for accountability from manufacturers. The ongoing litigation underscores the impact of united action, offering victims a chance to express their complaints and seek justice.

While the lawsuits progress, they continue to shed light on the magnitude of the issue, serving as a wake-up call for manufacturers and regulatory bodies alike.

What Is AFFF?

AFFF is primarily used to put out fires involving specific chemicals or fuels, and it is a type of firefighting foam [1]. It forms a film that smothers flames and restricts oxygen.

However, the foam’s composition includes dangerous PFAS chemicals, including PFOS and PFOA, known for their ability to accumulate in the body and are classified as emerging contaminants due to their carcinogenic nature.

AFFF’s use, particularly in firefighting activities, has led to occupational exposure among firefighters, with higher levels of certain PFAS observed compared to the general population.

Despite preventative measures like using self-contained breathing apparatus and frequent decontamination practices, firefighters remain at risk of PFAS exposure, underscoring the chemicals’ prevalence on the skin or in personal protective equipment.

Who Are The Defendants In AFFF Lawsuits in Connecticut?

The defendants in AFFF lawsuits in Connecticut are a broad coalition of manufacturers entangled in various PFAS contamination litigations. This group includes not only the primary producers of the firefighting foam but also associated companies that played a role in the creation and distribution of AFFF containing harmful PFAS chemicals.

Among the notable defendants embroiled in these legal battles are:

• 3M Company and its related entities
• Buckeye Fire Equipment Company
• Tyco Fire Products LP
• The Chemours Company
• E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
• Chemguard Inc.
• Chevron Corporation

The Link Between Firefighting Foam and Cancer

The connection between AFFF and cancer is now beyond dispute. Exposure to AFFF has been linked to various cancers, including [2]:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Ovarian cancer

Testicular and kidney cancer are the most commonly reported. The risk of developing cancer, particularly testicular and kidney cancer, becomes especially concerning after repeated and long-term exposure to AFFF foam containing PFAS chemicals. Some individuals exposed to these chemicals have developed cancer, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue.

Several cases of cancer associated with AFFF exposure, including kidney and testicular cancer, have been legally recognized and are represented among the litigants in the AFFF firefighting foam MDL. This recognition underscores the severity of the health risks associated with AFFF exposure, particularly the risk of cancer.

Does Firefighting Foam Contain PFAS?

Firefighting foam does contain PFAS chemicals. These chemicals are what give the foam its firefighting capabilities, but they are also what makes it dangerous. PFAS chemicals are known to cause cancer and other health issues, making them a significant concern in the ongoing AFFF lawsuits.

PFAS is one of the major classes of carcinogenic chemicals that firefighters are exposed to as occupational hazard. Elevated levels of PFAS have been observed in firefighters’ blood serum in recent studies. – National Library of Medicine

The presence of PFAS chemicals in firefighter foam, specifically in firefighting foams, coupled with their persistence in the environment and accumulation in the human body, makes it a potent risk factor for cancer among firefighters and other individuals who have come into contact with these dangerous chemicals. This revelation has fueled the firefighting foam lawsuits, bringing to light the need for safer alternatives to AFFF.

Common Injuries Linked To Firefighting Foam PFAS

Beyond cancer, exposure to AFFF is linked with other health problems. PFAS chemicals, such as PFOS, persist over time in the environment and build up in the human body, leading to various adverse health effects. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to:

• Thyroid hormone disruption, which could potentially lead to thyroid disease
• Liver damage
• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Low birth weight and developmental delays in infants
• Immune system dysfunction

It is important to be aware of these potential health risks associated with exposure to AFFF and take necessary precautions.

AFFF exposure is also linked to ulcerative colitis and autoimmune diseases, which have been observed in affected individuals.

The range of health effects associated with AFFF exposure, including endocrine disruption, underscores the importance of ongoing research into PFAS chemicals and the necessity for comprehensive health monitoring among individuals exposed to AFFF.

Who Qualifies for the AFFF Lawsuit in Connecticut?

Individuals who have been diagnosed with a type of cancer linked to PFAS exposure after working with AFFF and must have used AFFF regularly after 1960 qualify for the AFFF lawsuit in Connecticut. The focus on individual exposure and diagnosis excludes considerations of genetic predisposition or family history of the disease.

Veterans discharged from the military under conditions other than dishonorable may also file an AFFF exposure claim. Importantly, there is no statute of limitations for filing regular AFFF exposure claims, allowing claimants to file a lawsuit regardless of the time that has elapsed since exposure.

This provides a ray of hope for individuals who may have only recently discovered the link between their health issues and AFFF exposure.

How Do AFFF Lawsuits Work?

AFFF lawsuits work by initiating a meticulous legal process that is navigated with the help of experienced legal professionals.

The first step in this journey is to establish eligibility. This is done through a complimentary, obligation-free case evaluation, where the individual’s history of exposure and medical diagnosis are carefully examined to ascertain if they fulfill the criteria necessary for filing an AFFF lawsuit.

Once eligibility is confirmed, the legal team proceeds to compile evidence. This may include medical records, employment history, and documentation of AFFF exposure. The evidence is then used to file the lawsuit, after which the legal proceedings begin.

The lawsuit process can be lengthy and complex, involving various stages, including pre-trial discovery, trial, and potential appeals.

Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuits Settlement Amounts in Connecticut

Significant settlements have already been reached in the AFFF cancer lawsuits. A substantial $10.3 billion settlement involving AFFF manufacturers was reached, marking a significant milestone in firefighting foam litigation.

This settlement implicates major defendants like 3M and DuPont, providing a substantial context for ongoing and future AFFF litigation, including claims from Connecticut.

Moreover, there is an expected resolution of AFFF firefighting foam litigation in a global settlement, potentially covering various types of cancer with a tiered compensation system.

This signals a promising outlook for individuals in Connecticut who have been affected by AFFF exposure and are seeking justice and compensation.

Potential Compensation for Victims of Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuits in Connecticut

Victims of firefighting foam cancer lawsuits in Connecticut may expect substantial compensation. Law firms have recovered substantial sums in AFFF litigation, with one notable verdict in Connecticut amounting to $26,202,500. Moreover, a substantial $10.3 billion settlement was reached in October 2023 involving 3M, DuPont, and other defendants.

However, it’s important to note that specific compensation amounts in AFFF lawsuits are highly variable, and the details of each case must be taken into account.

For example, cases such as AFFF-induced prostate cancer fall into a lower settlement tier, with expected average payout values ranging from $150,000 to $350,000. Additionally, firefighting foam settlements in jury trials may also include compensation for punitive damages, highlighting an additional potential financial outcome for plaintiffs.

Filing a Connecticut Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuit

When considering legal representation for an AFFF lawsuit, it is important to select a firm that offers free case evaluations, has a proven track record of success, provides nationwide representation, has extensive experience, and works on a contingency fee basis.

Once the AFFF lawsuit is initiated, the legal team manages all aspects of the case, including:

• Confirming eligibility
• Compiling evidence
• Handling lawsuit filings
• Negotiating settlements

This allows clients to focus on their well-being, knowing that experienced professionals are representing their legal interests.

Types of Evidence To Present

The evidence provided in an AFFF lawsuit is vital in shaping the final verdict. This may include:

• Medical records detailing the individual’s diagnosis and treatment
• Employment records demonstrating the individual’s history of working with AFFF
• Any available documentation of the individual’s AFFF exposure

This evidence serves to establish the link between the individual’s AFFF exposure and their subsequent health issues. It provides a factual basis for the individual’s claims, supporting their compensation case. The process of gathering and presenting this evidence can be complex, requiring the expertise of experienced firefighting foam attorneys.

Connecticut Statute of Limitation

In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which would include AFFF-related cancer diagnoses, is generally two years from the date of injury or discovery of the injury [3].

However, this timeframe can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of claim being filed and the individual’s circumstances. Given the complexity of these factors, it is advisable to consult with legal professionals to understand the specific timeframes applicable to your case.

Related Articles:

• Arkansas Firefighter Foam Lawsuit
• California Firefighter Foam Attorney
• Colorado Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Update

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

FAQs

1. What Are the Common Reasons for Filing a Firefighter Foam Lawsuit in Connecticut?

Common reasons include health issues linked to foam exposure, such as cancer or respiratory problems and allegations of negligence in manufacturing or failing to warn about health risks.

2. How Can Residents of Connecticut Prove Their Exposure to Harmful Firefighter Foam?

Residents can prove exposure by providing employment records, medical diagnoses, witness testimonies, and evidence of foam use at firefighting sites, along with documenting health issues linked to the exposure.

3. What Are the Steps to Initiate a Firefighter Foam Lawsuit in Connecticut?

Steps include consulting a specialized attorney, gathering evidence of exposure and health effects, filing a complaint in the appropriate court, and engaging in discovery and legal proceedings.

Get Your Free Consultation From Connecticut Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawyer

Schmidt & Clark, LLP stands ready to assist during these pivotal moments. Should you or a loved one have suffered due to firefighting foam exposure, reach out to us without delay. Our team of experienced firefighting foam lawyers, adept in such legal matters, will support and steer you through each step.

It’s crucial to comprehend your rights and determine your qualifications for a firefighting foam lawsuit. We offer complimentary consultations, and our services are rendered on a contingency basis—you incur no fees unless we secure a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

For an in-depth case assessment regarding firefighting foam, look no further than Schmidt & Clark. Allow us to be your steadfast partner as you confront these daunting challenges.

Reference:

1. https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse/investigations/firefighting-foam
2. https://dceg.cancer.gov/research/what-we-study/pfas
3. https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_926.htm