Tennessee AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Tennessee AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Overview

Legal actions in Tennessee and nationally have been mounted against major manufacturers of firefighting foam, including 3M,DuPont, Chemours, and others, for health risks associated with PFAS chemicals. These ‘forever chemicals’ persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body, leading to serious health complications including cancer. The national AFFF lawsuit claims for cancer damages due to PFAS exposure, including those from Tennessee plaintiffs, have been consolidated as Multi-District Litigation (MDL 2873), allowing for individual evaluation of each plaintiff’s case.There are concerns about the potential bankruptcy of 3M due to the magnitude ofPFAS claims, which could significantly influence the settlement negotiations for personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits related to AFFF exposure.

Latest Tennessee AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Updates

March 2024 – A Case Management Conference for the AFFF litigation was held on March 1, 2024, with ongoing preparations for bellwether trials, though personal injury settlement prospects remain uncertain until 2025January 2024 – The number of cases in the AFFF firefighting foam class action MDL increased by 279 new cases, bringing the total to 6,994 pending cases. This surge reflects growing awareness and willingness to seek justice among those affected.August 2023 – A global settlement agreement resolved many AFFF

water contamination claims, with defendants, including 3M, agreeing to pay $10.3 billion, indicating the seriousness of the issue, though personal injury settlements are still pending.June 29, 2023 – The Tennessee Attorney General announced a lawsuit against PFAS manufacturers, citing environmental damage and threats to public health from firefighting foam contamination [1].

NCI and General Statistics

According to health and environmental agencies, certain PFAS chemicals in AFFF, like PFOA, are classified as human carcinogens, while others, like PFOS, are considered possibly carcinogenic. Epidemiologic studies, cited in AFFF lawsuits, reveal a higher incidence and mortality rate linked to kidney cancer among individuals with high PFAS exposure from AFFF compared to the general population.Research from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, including NCI and ATSDR studies, confirms that firefighting foam contains PFAS chemicals that accumulate in human bodies and are associated with cancer risks, though not all are classified as known carcinogens.

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 – National Library of Medicine

AFFF Injuries & Side Effects

Persistent exposure to AFFF has been most strongly linked with a variety of serious health conditions and cancers [2]:

• Kidney cancer: Damage to kidney tissue leading to malignant growth
• Testicular cancer: Abnormal cell growth in the testicles
• Prostate cancer: Malignancy in the prostate gland
• Breast cancer: Uncontrolled growth of breast cells
• Liver cancer: Malignant tumor development in liver tissue
• Pancreatic cancer: Cancer that forms in the pancreas
• Bladder cancer: Malignant growth in the bladder lining
• Ovarian cancer: Cancer that develops in the ovaries
• Immune system deficiencies: Compromised immune function

The risk of developing AFFF-related cancers can persist for years or decades after the initial exposure, making monitoring and early detection crucial.

Do You Qualify for an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an AFFFfirefighting foam lawsuit if:

• You are a firefighter, military personnel, or citizen residing near PFAS manufacturing facilities
• You have been diagnosed with cancer following extended exposure to AFFF
• The cancer diagnosis can be linked to repeated exposure to AFFF foam
• Your exposure occurred through occupational use or environmental contamination

Evidence Required for a AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit

To build a compelling case, you’ll need to present evidence that effectively demonstrates the link between your cancer diagnosis and AFFF exposure. This typically includes:

• Medical records documenting your cancer diagnosis
• Employment history showing work as a firefighter or in locations where AFFF was used
• Documentation of AFFF exposure through training exercises or emergency response
• Medical expert testimony connecting your specific cancer to PFAS chemicals

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of AFFF exposure in Tennessee may seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Past, current, and future treatment costs
• Lost wages: Income lost due to inability to work
• Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
• Reparation for loss: Compensation for AFFF-related conditions

The estimatedaverage settlement amounts for second-tier AFFF firefighting foam cases range between $150,000 to $280,000. Firefighters and servicemembers who developed cancer after using AFFF are believed to be entitled to significant compensation from lawsuits against manufacturers.

Tennessee AFFF Recall Information

While there hasn’t been a nationwide recall of all AFFF products, and no state-mandated recalls have been identified in Tennessee, some states have implemented recall requirements. The EPA has implemented regulatory efforts to address PFAS chemicals, including setting drinking water standards and supporting PFAS-free foam transitions, though no federal mandate directly reduces AFFF PFAS content. The Department of Defense has begun phasing out AFFF containing PFAS, with a target completion by October 2024, and is replacing it with safer alternatives, though challenges may extend timelines.

Statute of Limitations for Tennessee AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for filing an AFFF lawsuit is generally one year from the date of diagnosis. However, certain exceptions may apply, underscoring the importance of consulting with a qualified attorney to understand the specific time limits for your case.Related Article: South Carolina Firefighter Foam LawsuitSee all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. What Is AFFF?

AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) is a specialized foam designed to extinguish fires fueled by flammable liquids. It forms a film that suppresses the fire and prevents reignition. Since the late 1960s, it’s been known to contain dangerous PFAS substances that persist in the environment and accumulate in human bodies.

2. Does Firefighting Foam Contain PFAS?

Yes, firefighting foam does contain PFAS. These chemicals are known to be carcinogenic and accumulate in human bodies, reinforcing the health risks associated with toxic firefighting foam use.

3. Who Are The Defendants In AFFF Lawsuits?

The defendants in AFFF lawsuits are primarily major AFFF manufacturers including 3M, DuPont, Chemours, and Tyco Fire Products. In Tennessee, Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti has filed lawsuits against over 20 PFAS manufacturers.

4. How Do AFFF Lawsuits Work?

AFFF lawsuits work by establishing a structured process for those affected by AFFF exposure to seek compensation. The process involves confirming plaintiff eligibility based on a cancer diagnosis linked to AFFF, offering free initial consultations, and handling cases on a contingency fee basis.

5. What Legal Recourse Is Available for Tennessee Residents Affected by Firefighter Foam?

Tennessee residents can file personal injury claims, environmental lawsuits, or join class actions against manufacturers for damages related to firefighter foam exposure.

6. Are There Any Recent Legal Precedents in Tennessee Related to Firefighter Foam Lawsuits?

Yes, recent legal precedents in Tennessee involve successful lawsuits where courts have held manufacturers accountable for the harmful effects of firefighter foam.

7. What Steps Should Tennessee Residents Take if They Suspect Firefighter Foam Exposure?

Residents should seek medical evaluation, document exposure history, and consult a specialized attorney to explore legal options and seek compensation for health issues.

8. What is the Average Settlement for AFFF Lawsuits?

The estimated average settlement amounts for second-tier AFFF firefighting foam cases range between $150,000 to $280,000, though amounts vary based on case specifics and severity of illness.

9. Can Family Members File a Wrongful Death Claim for AFFF-Related Deaths?

Yes, family members can file wrongful death claims if a loved one died from cancer linked to AFFF exposure. These claims are subject to specific filing deadlines.

10. Are Military Personnel Eligible for AFFF Lawsuits?

Yes, military personnel exposed to AFFF during service who subsequently developed cancer are eligible to file lawsuits against the manufacturers (not against the military itself).

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for AFFF-related injuries. In Tennessee, you generally have only one year from the date of diagnosis to file a claim. Don’t delay in seeking the compensation you deserve.Our services include:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our legal representation
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you

Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today to discuss your case with our experienced AFFF litigation team.

Get Your Free Consultation From Tennessee Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawyers

AtSchmidt & Clark, LLP we stand by your side during trying times. Should you or a loved one suffer from the consequences of firefighting foam exposure, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our Tennessee firefighting foam lawyers specialize in such cases and will steer you through every stage of the legal journey.Comprehending your legal rights and determining your eligibility for a firefighting foam lawsuit is crucial. We offer complimentary consultations, ensuring that you incur no fees unless we secure a favorable resolution for your case.For an in-depth analysis of your firefighting foam-related case, connect with Schmidt & Clark, LLP. Allow us to be your steadfast partner in overcoming the complexities of this legal challenge.Reference:[1] https://www.tn.gov/attorneygeneral/news/2023/6/29/pr23-22.html