Published by If you or a loved one experienced cancer or other serious health conditions following exposure to firefighting foam (AFFF), you may be entitled to pursue compensation. At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to toxic PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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Table Of Contents
- New Jersey Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Overview
- Latest New Jersey Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- New Jersey Firefighting Foam Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a New Jersey Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?
- New Jersey Statute of Limitations for Firefighting Foam Lawsuits
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the AFFF lawsuit in New Jersey?
- What are the primary health risks associated with AFFF?
- Who can file a lawsuit related to AFFF exposure?
- What compensation can plaintiffs seek in AFFF lawsuits?
- Who are the defendants in AFFF lawsuits in New Jersey?
- Does firefighting foam contain PFAS?
- How do AFFF lawsuits work?
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive New Jersey Legal Claims
- References
New Jersey Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Overview
The New Jersey firefighter foam lawsuit seeks justice for individuals harmed by AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam), a foam linked to serious health risks, including cancer. This legal battle implicates manufacturers who potentially knew about the dangers of PFAS chemicals in their products yet failed to protect users. Numerous firefighting foam lawsuits have been filed nationwide by affected individuals, particularly firefighters, military personnel, and airport workers directly exposed to these toxic chemicals.
What Is AFFF?
According to the Division of Spill Prevention and Response, AFFF is an acronym for Aqueous Film Forming Foam, a firefighting agent specifically designed to tackle Class B fires, which are fueled by flammable liquids such as gasoline and petroleum [1].
While AFFF’s effectiveness in fire suppression is undeniable, the same chemical properties that make it so efficient can also pose significant dangers to human health and the environment. It is important to handle and dispose of AFFF properly to minimize exposure to these harmful substances.
Latest New Jersey Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Updates
2023 – $10.3 Billion Settlement – 3M agreed to a substantial settlement for contaminating water supplies with PFAS chemicals found in firefighting foam, marking a significant development in the ongoing litigation.
2023 – $4 Billion Settlement – DuPont, Chemours, and Corteva reached a settlement agreement to address claims related to water contamination from PFAS chemicals.
June 5, 2023 – The first bellwether trial in the AFFF litigation, City of Stuart v. 3M Co. et al., a municipal water contamination case, was scheduled to begin, potentially influencing future settlement negotiations.
FDA Reports and Statistics
PFAS chemicals found in firefighting foam have been linked to multiple health concerns by various health authorities. Studies from the National Cancer Institute have demonstrated correlations between AFFF exposure and increased cancer risk, particularly among firefighters [2].
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also highlighted substantial health risks connected with prolonged PFAS exposure, emphasizing the serious nature of environmental health concerns associated with these chemicals.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also highlighted substantial health risks connected with prolonged PFAS exposure, emphasizing the serious nature of environmental health concerns associated with these chemicals.
New Jersey Firefighting Foam Injuries & Side Effects
AFFF firefighting foam contains PFAS chemicals that have been linked to serious health conditions, particularly various types of cancer and immune system issues.
In AFFF firefighting foam cases, the main contention is the alleged negligence of manufacturers. Accusations leveled at these companies, such as National Foam, include the conscious production, marketing, and sale of AFFF products despite known health risks.
Tragically, the fallout from this alleged negligence has not only led to personal injury claims but also to municipal water contamination claims and a significant increase in Firefighter Cancer Registry Act cases, with some firefighters having developed cancer.
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, these same toxic chemicals, specifically PFOA and PFOS, have been linked to various health concerns, including [3]:
- Kidney cancer: Linked to chronic PFAS exposure
- Testicular cancer: Particularly elevated risk among firefighters
- Prostate cancer: Associated with long-term occupational exposure
- Breast cancer: Studies show potential correlation with PFAS exposure
- Liver cancer: Linked to accumulation of PFAS in liver tissue
- Pancreatic cancer: Associated with heavy PFAS exposure
- Bladder cancer: Documented in individuals with high PFAS exposure
- Ovarian cancer: Emerging evidence suggests potential link
- Immune system deficiencies: Compromised immune function from PFAS exposure
Studies show that elevated levels of PFAS exposure is associated with adverse health effects such as testicular and kidney cancers – National Library of Medicine
Do You Qualify for a New Jersey Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a firefighting foam lawsuit in New Jersey if:
- You were exposed to AFFF as a firefighter, military member, or airport worker
- You worked in specific jobs or professions where AFFF firefighting foam was regularly used
- You were a military personnel exposed to AFFF at military bases, airfields, or Navy vessels
- You worked at commercial airports or industrial facilities that used AFFF extensively
- You consumed drinking water contaminated with PFAS from AFFF (particularly if living near military bases or airports)
- You were subsequently diagnosed with one of the cancers linked to PFAS exposure (kidney, testicular, prostate, pancreatic, liver, bladder, ovarian, etc.)
Evidence Required for a Firefighting Foam Lawsuit
When filing a New Jersey firefighting foam cancer lawsuit, plaintiffs must present compelling evidence to substantiate their claims, including:
- Medical records documenting diagnosis and treatment
- Cancer diagnosis information with clear timeline
- History and documentation of AFFF exposure
- Employment records showing work in affected locations
- Documentation proving proper usage of the product
Damages You Can Recover
Compensation sought in New Jersey AFFF lawsuits can cover:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages against manufacturers
Estimates suggest that settlement amounts in AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits could fall between $40,000 to $300,000 or higher, with the actual amount depending on the case strength and individual factors.
New Jersey Statute of Limitations for Firefighting Foam Lawsuits
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims related to firefighting foam exposure is typically two years from the date of injury or discovery of the injury. Under specific circumstances, this period can extend up to six years for certain claims.
If a claim is not filed within this prescribed period, the plaintiff may lose the right to file the lawsuit altogether. It is crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AFFF lawsuit in New Jersey?
The AFFF lawsuit in New Jersey involves legal claims related to the use of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam that has been linked to environmental contamination and health risks. The lawsuits focus on seeking compensation for damages and holding manufacturers and distributors accountable for the harm caused by the foam.
What are the primary health risks associated with AFFF?
The primary health risks associated with AFFF include various types of cancer (such as kidney and liver cancer), liver damage, thyroid disease, and other serious conditions due to the PFAS chemicals it contains.
Individuals who have been exposed to AFFF and have developed health issues related to that exposure, as well as family members of those who have suffered from related health problems, can file a lawsuit related to AFFF exposure. This includes firefighters, military personnel, and residents living near sites where AFFF was used.
What compensation can plaintiffs seek in AFFF lawsuits?
Compensation that plaintiffs can seek in AFFF lawsuits include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Compensation may also be sought for future medical monitoring and treatment related to AFFF exposure.
Who are the defendants in AFFF lawsuits in New Jersey?
The defendants in AFFF lawsuits in New Jersey include several high-profile corporations such as The 3M Company, Tyco Fire Products LP, Chemguard, Inc., Buckeye Fire Equipment Company, and others who manufactured and sold AFFF products.
Does firefighting foam contain PFAS?
Yes, firefighting foam does contain PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These manufactured chemicals have been used in firefighting foam due to their water and grease-repellent properties, making them effective in suppressing flammable liquid fires.
How do AFFF lawsuits work?
AFFF lawsuits work by providing a legal avenue for victims of AFFF exposure to seek justice. Law firms represent individuals who have been exposed to AFFF, filing lawsuits, conducting discovery, participating in bellwether trials, and negotiating settlements on behalf of affected individuals.
See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive New Jersey Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action related to firefighting foam exposure. With the statute of limitations being only two years from the date of injury or discovery in New Jersey, it’s crucial to act promptly to protect your legal rights.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential consultations to assess your case
- No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
- Payment only if we win your case through a favorable verdict or settlement
References
1. https://dec.alaska.gov/spar/csp/pfas/firefighting-foam
2. https://dceg.cancer.gov/research/what-we-study/pfas
3. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/index.html