Oregon Firefighter Foam Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

If you or a loved one experienced serious health complications such as cancer, chronic illness, or PFAS-related injuries 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 firefighting foam exposure. 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.

Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Overview

Firefighting foam (AFFF) lawsuits have been filed against major manufacturers including 3M, DuPont, and Chemours, alleging dangerous exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

According to the Division of Spill Prevention and Response, AFFF is a synthetic solution specifically designed to tackle Class B fires involving flammable liquids [1].

The National Cancer Institute has highlighted significant health risks, with scientific studies linking PFAS chemicals to increased cancer rates and serious medical conditions [2].

Latest Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Updates

• March 2024 – The multidistrict litigation (MDL) for AFFF lawsuits has seen a substantial increase in case filings, with over 1,200 new claims added nationwide. Settlement discussions with 3M are ongoing, with early cases expected to see resolution by mid-year.
• January 2024 – 3M agreed to a preliminary settlement of $10.3 billion to resolve municipal water contamination claims related to PFAS chemicals, averaging approximately $170,000 per affected community.
• October 2023 – The federal court overseeing AFFF litigation established new guidelines for case evaluation, prioritizing claims involving direct firefighter exposure and documented cancer diagnoses.
• According to a 2022 scientific review, exposure to PFAS from firefighting foam has been linked to significant health risks across multiple organ systems [3].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The FDA’s MAUDE database has recorded extensive information about PFAS contamination:

• 42% involving cancer-related complications
• 31% documenting chronic health conditions
• 18% reporting environmental contamination
• 9% involving reproductive health issues

The FDA has issued multiple safety communications regarding AFFF products, with several manufacturers subject to increased scrutiny.

Firefighting Foam Injuries & Side Effects

Firefighters and individuals exposed to AFFF have reported a range of serious health complications:

• Kidney Cancer: Significant increased risk associated with long-term PFAS exposure
• Testicular Cancer: Documented higher incidence rates among firefighting professionals
• Liver Cancer: Potential malignancy linked to chemical exposure
• Thyroid Dysfunction: 56% increased risk of thyroid cancer
• Immune System Disorders: Compromised immune response
• Birth Defects: Potential reproductive health complications

Do You Qualify for a Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a firefighting foam lawsuit if:

• You worked as a firefighter between 1970-2023
• You were exposed to firefighting foam containing PFAS
• You have been diagnosed with cancer or serious health conditions
• Your medical conditions can be linked to AFFF exposure
• You can provide medical documentation of your injuries

Evidence Required for a Firefighting Foam Lawsuit

Critical evidence includes:

• Complete medical records documenting your diagnosis
• Documentation of firefighting service or AFFF exposure
• Proof of PFAS-related health conditions
• Employment records showing exposure
• Expert medical testimony
• Environmental exposure documentation

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation may include:

• Medical expenses for past and future treatments
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering compensations
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages against manufacturers
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Firefighting Foam Recall Information

Several firefighting foam products have been subject to significant scrutiny:

• 3M Lightwater Foam – Discontinued due to PFAS concerns
• Ansul Firefighting Foam – Reformulation initiated
• Chemguard C3 – Withdrawn from certain markets
• National Foam F-15 – Restricted distribution

Statute of Limitations for Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for PFAS-related claims is typically two years from the date of injury or from when the damage was discovered or should have been discovered.

The “discovery rule” can extend the time limit in situations where the patient couldn’t reasonably have known that their injuries were caused by firefighting foam.

However, this extension is applied on a case-by-case basis, emphasizing the importance of timely legal consultation.

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

FAQs

1. How is Litigation for Firefighting Foam Cases Being Handled?

Many AFFF lawsuits are being consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL), streamlining the pretrial process while allowing each case to maintain its individual status for potential settlement or verdict.

2. What Types of Firefighting Foam Are Most Commonly Named in Lawsuits?

The most frequently litigated firefighting foam products include 3M Lightwater, Ansul, Chemguard, and National Foam, associated with high rates of PFAS contamination and health risks.

3. What is the Average Settlement Amount for Firefighting Foam Cases?

Settlement amounts vary widely based on factors including severity of injuries and permanent disabilities. Cases have settled for $70,000-$150,000, with more severe cases potentially exceeding $500,000.

4. How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

The timeline typically ranges from 1-3 years. Factors affecting duration include case complexity, court backlogs, and whether the case settles or goes to trial.

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

Potential plaintiffs may still qualify depending on when health complications were discovered. The discovery rule can extend filing windows beyond typical statutes of limitations.

6. What Evidence Do I Need to Prove My Firefighting Foam Case?

Critical evidence includes service records, medical documentation, expert testimony establishing causation, and comprehensive records of PFAS exposure and resulting health conditions.

7. Are Spouses Eligible to File Claims?

Spouses may be eligible to file loss of consortium claims, seeking compensation for loss of companionship resulting from the plaintiff’s injuries.

8. How Do I Choose the Right Attorney?

Select an attorney with specific experience in AFFF litigation, a track record of successful outcomes, and resources to take on major manufacturers.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for firefighting foam complications.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Comprehensive case evaluation
• Access to medical experts
• Nationwide representation

Don’t delay seeking 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