Oklahoma Firefighter Foam Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

If you or a loved one experienced serious health complications such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, breast cancer, or liver cancer following exposure to PFAS from firefighting foam, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to PFAS contamination from Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). 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.

AFFF Lawsuit Overview

Firefighting foam lawsuits have been filed against major manufacturers including DuPont and other chemical companies, alleging defective design and failure to warn of serious health risks associated with PFAS exposure.

According to the Division of Spill Prevention and Response, AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) has been extensively used by fire departments, military installations, and airports nationwide [1].

The National Cancer Institute has confirmed the significant link between PFAS exposure and various types of cancer, spurring thousands of personal injury claims across the United States [2].

Latest AFFF Lawsuit Updates

• March 2024 – The multidistrict litigation (MDL) for AFFF lawsuits has seen a substantial increase in case filings, with over 3,000 new cases added in the first quarter. Settlement discussions are ongoing, with early indications suggesting potential global settlements approaching $10.5 billion.
• January 2024 – A landmark settlement of $1.2 billion was announced, covering approximately 7,500 cases related to PFAS contamination, with an average settlement amount of approximately $160,000 per plaintiff.
• October 2023 – The federal court overseeing AFFF litigation established new guidelines for case evaluation, prioritizing cases with documented cancer diagnoses and demonstrable PFAS exposure.
• According to recent epidemiological studies, the economic impact of PFAS-related health issues continues to grow, with estimated healthcare costs and productivity losses reaching billions of dollars annually [3].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The EPA and FDA databases have documented extensive evidence of PFAS-related health risks:

• 47% of documented cases involving serious health complications
• 35% of cases reporting cancer diagnoses
• 22% involving environmental contamination
• 16% documenting workplace exposure risks

Multiple federal agencies have issued warnings about the potential long-term health risks associated with PFAS exposure.

AFFF Injuries & Side Effects

Individuals exposed to PFAS through firefighting foam have reported a range of serious and life-threatening health complications:

• Kidney Cancer: Aggressive malignancy with high correlation to PFAS exposure
• Testicular Cancer: Significant increased risk linked to long-term PFAS contamination
• Breast Cancer: Documented increased incidence among exposed populations
• Liver Cancer: Serious malignancy associated with prolonged PFAS exposure
• Ovarian Cancer: Emerging evidence of direct correlation with PFAS chemicals
• Chronic Immune System Disorders: Persistent health complications from chemical exposure

Do You Qualify for an AFFF Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an AFFF lawsuit if:

• You were exposed to firefighting foam between 2000-2023
• Your exposure was through firefighting, military, or airport work
• You have been diagnosed with cancer or serious health conditions
• Your medical records demonstrate a link to PFAS exposure
• You can provide documentation of chemical exposure
• You have not previously settled an AFFF-related claim

Evidence Required for an AFFF Lawsuit

Critical documentation includes:

• Comprehensive medical records
• Proof of PFAS exposure
• Workplace documentation
• Cancer diagnosis reports
• Expert medical testimony
• Employment records demonstrating exposure

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation may include:

• Medical expenses for treatment
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages against manufacturers
• Cost of ongoing medical care

AFFF Recall Information

Key recalls and regulatory actions:

• 3M announced complete exit from PFAS production in 2022
• DuPont and related companies facing multiple regulatory challenges
• EPA implementing strict PFAS regulations
• Significant restrictions on AFFF use in various industries

Statute of Limitations for AFFF Lawsuits

Time limits for filing AFFF lawsuits vary by state:

• Most states allow 2-3 years from diagnosis or discovery
• Discovery rule may extend filing periods
• Some states have specific environmental exposure provisions
• Consultation with a specialized attorney is crucial for understanding specific limitations

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

FAQs

1. How Are AFFF Lawsuits Being Handled?

AFFF lawsuits are consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL), streamlining the legal process while maintaining individual case characteristics. The current MDL involves thousands of cases nationwide, focusing on systemic PFAS contamination and health impacts.

2. What Chemicals Are Most Problematic in AFFF?

PFOS and PFOA are the primary chemicals of concern, known for their persistent environmental presence and potential carcinogenic properties. These chemicals have been linked to numerous health complications and are the primary focus of current litigation.

3. What is the Average Settlement Amount?

Settlement amounts vary widely, typically ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 depending on the severity of health complications, extent of exposure, and individual case circumstances. More severe cases with documented cancer diagnoses may see higher compensation.

4. How Long Does an AFFF Lawsuit Take?

The typical timeline for AFFF lawsuits ranges from 18-36 months. Factors include case complexity, medical documentation, and whether the case settles or proceeds to trial. MDL proceedings may accelerate some aspects of litigation.

5. Can I File a Claim if My Exposure Was Years Ago?

The discovery rule allows potential plaintiffs to file claims even if exposure occurred years earlier, based on when health complications were discovered or diagnosed. Consulting with a specialized attorney is crucial for understanding your specific options.

6. What Evidence Strengthens an AFFF Case?

Critical evidence includes medical records, workplace documentation, expert testimony linking PFAS exposure to specific health conditions, and comprehensive documentation of chemical exposure and resulting health impacts.

7. Are Family Members Eligible to File Claims?

Family members may be eligible to file loss of consortium claims or wrongful death claims in cases involving serious health complications or fatalities related to PFAS exposure.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is critical in pursuing AFFF-related legal claims. Statutes of limitations vary by state and can be complex.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs – we only get paid if you win
• Comprehensive case evaluation
• Access to leading medical and scientific experts
• Nationwide representation in AFFF lawsuits

Don’t wait to seek the compensation you deserve for PFAS-related injuries.

[Start Your Free Case Review Now]

Reference:

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