Florida Firefighter Foam Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Florida Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Overview

Latest Florida Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Updates

April 10, 2025 – The Lawsuit Information Center reports that thousands of firefighters and military personnel nationwide are pursuing claims related to AFFF foam exposure, citing increased cancer risks and corporate negligence [1].

March 22, 2025 – Lawsuits.org notes that individuals exposed to AFFF foam—including first responders and airport personnel—are eligible to seek legal action due to cancer risks and chemical contamination.

Health Reports and Statistics

AFFF exposure has been associated with numerous reported adverse health effects among firefighters and others exposed to the foam, as evidenced by thousands of lawsuits nationwide. The toxic PFAS chemicals in the foam have been linked to various forms of cancer and other serious health conditions. Many Florida firefighters have reported developing cancer following years of AFFF exposure during their service.

These health concerns have fueled the consolidation of AFFF lawsuits into multidistrict litigation (MDL 2873), which includes and affects the claims of Florida firefighters. The growing number of cases demonstrates the widespread nature of AFFF-related health issues.

Firefighting Foam Injuries & Side Effects

Exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam has been linked to numerous serious health conditions.

• Cancer: Kidney, testicular, prostate, breast, liver, pancreatic, bladder, and ovarian cancers
• Organ Damage: Liver and kidney dysfunction leading to serious long-term health issues
• Thyroid Disorders: Disruption of hormone production and thyroid function
• Immune System Deficiencies: Compromised immune response and increased susceptibility to illness
• Reproductive Issues: Fertility problems and complications during pregnancy

There is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health outcomes in humans. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Do You Qualify for a Florida Firefighter Foam Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Florida firefighter foam lawsuit if:

• You were exposed to AFFF firefighting foam as a firefighter, military service member (post-1960), airport worker, emergency responder, or resident near a contaminated area
• You have been diagnosed with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, or other PFAS-related illness
• Your condition required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to AFFF exposure

Evidence Required for a Florida Firefighter Foam Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a claim, you’ll need to provide:

• Employment records indicating AFFF exposure
• Medical records documenting your diagnosis and treatment
• Evidence of the connection between your exposure and health condition
• Documentation of all related medical expenses and lost wages

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of firefighting foam exposure may recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatments, surgeries, and ongoing care
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering related to the illness and treatment
• Punitive damages against manufacturers (in some cases)

Firefighting Foam Recall Information

While there has been no universal recall of all AFFF products, many states, jurisdictions, and the U.S. military have begun phasing out PFAS-containing firefighting foams due to their documented health and environmental risks. Major defendants in AFFF lawsuits, including those involving Florida plaintiffs, are 3M, DuPont, Tyco, and Chemguard. These manufacturers face accountability for producing and distributing these harmful products without adequate warnings about PFAS risks.

Statute of Limitations for Florida Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing an AFFF lawsuit is typically four years from the date of injury or two years from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered with reasonable diligence. However, these timeframes can vary depending on specific circumstances surrounding your case.

It’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate legal deadline.

Related Articles:

• Connecticut Firefighter Foam Lawsuit
• Colorado Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Update

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

FAQs

1. How does the AFFF lawsuit process work?

The process begins with filing a complaint presenting evidence linking AFFF exposure to your medical condition. The case may involve discovery, expert testimony, and potentially a trial if no settlement is reached. Throughout this process, an experienced legal team is crucial to secure maximum compensation.

2. What settlement amounts are typical in Florida firefighting foam cases?

The settlement amounts in AFFF lawsuits, determined by a tiered ranking system, vary significantly. This system accounts for the strength of the plaintiff’s case and the severity of their cancer diagnosis.

Settlement amounts vary based on a tiered ranking system that accounts for exposure length and diagnosis severity. Top-tier cases with long-term exposure and serious cancer diagnoses may receive between $300,000 to $600,000, though actual compensation depends on case-specific factors.

3. How can residents determine if their property has been contaminated by firefighter foam in Florida?

Residents can test soil and water for PFAS chemicals, review local contamination reports, consult with environmental experts, and check if their property is near known foam-use sites.

4. What are the potential long-term effects of firefighter foam exposure?

Long-term effects include increased risk of cancers, liver and kidney damage, thyroid disorders, reproductive issues, and chronic diseases due to persistent PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam.

5. Who are the defendants in Florida AFFF lawsuits?

The major defendants are manufacturers including 3M, DuPont, Tyco, and Chemguard who produced firefighting foam containing PFAS chemicals without adequate warnings about health risks.

6. How long do I have to file a Florida firefighting foam lawsuit?

In Florida, you typically have four years from exposure or two years from discovering your injury to file a lawsuit, though this varies by circumstance. Consult an attorney promptly to ensure proper filing within deadlines.

7. What is AFFF and why is it dangerous?

AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) is a firefighting foam used to extinguish liquid fuel fires. It contains PFAS chemicals that don’t break down in the environment or human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals” and causing serious health risks.

8. Are there specific health studies related to firefighter foam exposure conducted in Florida?

Yes, studies in Florida have explored the health impacts of PFAS exposure from firefighter foam, including research by universities and health agencies focusing on related diseases and contamination effects.

9. What type of compensation can I receive for a Florida firefighting foam lawsuit?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages. The amount depends on your specific diagnosis, exposure level, and case strength.

10. Do I need a lawyer to file a firefighting foam lawsuit?

While not legally required, having experienced legal representation significantly improves your chances of receiving fair compensation. The complex nature of these cases makes professional guidance invaluable.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for AFFF exposure. Florida’s statute of limitations restricts your ability to file a claim to just four years from exposure or two years from discovery of your injury. Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve.

Schmidt & Clark offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees to begin your case
• Payment only if we win your case through verdict or settlement

Get Your Free Consultation From Florida Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawyers

The legal professionals at Schmidt & Clark, LLP are at your side during these pivotal moments. Should you or a loved one suffer from injuries linked to firefighting foam exposure, reach out to us without delay. Our team of firefighting foam attorneys is adept at handling such cases and will steer you through each step of the legal journey.

It’s essential to grasp your legal entitlements and determine your eligibility for a firefighting foam lawsuit. Our initial consultations are complimentary, and we operate on a contingency basis, meaning you incur no fees unless we secure a favorable verdict or settlement in your case.

Enlist the help of Schmidt & Clark for a comprehensive review of your firefighting foam case. Allow us to be your steadfast partner in this complex ordeal.

Reference:

[1] https://www.lawsuit-information-center.com/afff-firefighting-foam-lawsuit.html