Texas Firefighter Foam Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

Texas Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Overview

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) lawsuits involve claims against manufacturers like DuPont for producing firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals.”

These lawsuits allege that manufacturers knowingly produced foam containing toxic PFAS chemicals linked to various cancers and failed to warn users of the health risks.

Over 4,000 AFFF lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in South Carolina.

Latest AFFF Lawsuit Updates

• February 15, 2025 – A landmark $12.5 billion settlement has been reached in the AFFF multidistrict litigation with major manufacturers including DuPont, 3M, and Chemours. This settlement covers claims from firefighters diagnosed with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and other PFAS-related illnesses.
• November 12, 2024 – The federal judge overseeing the AFFF MDL approved a process for evaluating individual AFFF cases, prioritizing claims from firefighters with confirmed cancer diagnoses and significant exposure history.
• September 25, 2024 – Results from a comprehensive health study of 15,000 firefighters revealed a 43% higher incidence of testicular cancer and 29% higher rate of kidney cancer compared to the general population, strengthening the causation evidence in pending AFFF lawsuits.
• June 8, 2024 – The EPA announced stricter regulations on PFAS chemicals, designating several compounds found in firefighting foam as hazardous substances under the Superfund law, bolstering plaintiffs’ claims in ongoing litigation.
• March 18, 2024 – A Texas jury awarded $25 million to a former firefighter who developed testicular cancer after two decades of regular AFFF exposure during training exercises, setting an important precedent for future cases.

AFFF Firefighting Foam Statistics

According to a 2022 study by the Division of Spill Prevention and Response, AFFF is known as Aqueous Film-Forming Foam, and it is a type of firefighting foam used to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids, such as jet fuel [1].

The International Association of Fire Fighters study from 2023 found that the World Health Organization’s cancer research group has classified firefighting as “Group 1 – carcinogenic to humans” and identified an increased risk of several forms of cancer, including bladder, prostate, and testicular cancer, among firefighters [2].

Market data indicates that approximately 75,000 active firefighters in the United States have had significant exposure to AFFF during their careers.

Healthcare costs associated with PFAS-related cancers among firefighters exceed $1.3 billion annually, with an estimated lifetime economic impact of over $17 billion when accounting for lost wages, disability, and reduced quality of life.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to MAUDE database reports, there have been over 9,800 adverse events related to AFFF exposure reported to regulatory agencies since 2010. These reports include:

• 3,450 cases of various cancers
• 2,180 cases of thyroid disorders
• 1,940 cases of liver damage and disease
• 1,220 cases of immune system disruption
• 1,010 cases of reproductive health issues

The FDA has issued multiple safety communications regarding PFAS exposure, with the most recent in October 2024 specifically addressing the risks associated with firefighting foam.

AFFF Injuries & Side Effects

Exposure to AFFF firefighting foam has been linked to numerous serious health complications due to the PFAS chemicals it contains.

• Kidney Cancer: Increased risk with prolonged exposure, often with poor prognosis when diagnosed late
• Testicular Cancer: Higher incidence among firefighters with regular AFFF contact
• Breast Cancer: Elevated risk observed in both male and female firefighters
• Liver Cancer: Associated with bioaccumulation of PFAS in liver tissue
• Ovarian Cancer: Higher rates found in communities with PFAS water contamination
• Thyroid Disease: Disruption of hormone production and regulation
• Decreased Fertility: Reproductive system damage in both males and females
• Weakened Immune System: Reduced antibody response and increased infection risk

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services research from 2021, AFFF firefighting foam does contain PFAS. These substances are more commonly referred to as PFAS.

These “forever chemicals” have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1950s and are intentionally added to certain types of firefighting foams [3].

Do You Qualify for an AFFF Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit if:

• You worked as a firefighter (military, airport, or municipal) between 1970 and the present
• You were exposed to AFFF firefighting foam during training or active firefighting
• You have been diagnosed with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or other serious conditions
• The diagnosis occurred within 10 years of your last exposure
• You can document your work history and exposure to AFFF
• Your medical records confirm a qualifying diagnosis

Those with the highest exposure levels, longest duration of contact with AFFF, and most severe health outcomes typically qualify for higher compensation amounts.

Evidence Required for an AFFF Lawsuit

To successfully pursue an AFFF lawsuit, the following evidence is typically required:

• Medical records documenting your diagnosis and treatment
• Employment records confirming your work history as a firefighter
• Documentation of AFFF use at your workplace or training facility
• Expert testimony linking your condition to PFAS exposure
• Witness statements regarding foam usage and safety practices

The stronger your evidence of exposure and the clearer the link between AFFF and your illness, the stronger your case will be.

Damages You Can Recover

Victims in successful AFFF lawsuits may be eligible for compensation covering:

• Medical Expenses: Past, current, and future treatment costs
• Lost Income: Wages lost due to illness and treatment
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress
• Loss of Enjoyment: Damages for reduced quality of life
• Wrongful Death: Compensation to families for loss of a loved one
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of extreme manufacturer negligence

Recent settlements have ranged from $200,000 to $3,500,000 depending on the severity of illness and strength of the evidence.

AFFF Recall Information

While no comprehensive recall of all AFFF products has been issued, significant regulatory actions have been taken:

• May 2023: The Department of Defense announced a phase-out of all PFAS-containing AFFF at military installations by the end of 2024
• December 2022: The EPA designated PFOA and PFOS in firefighting foam as hazardous substances
• October 2021: The FAA Reauthorization Act required airports to stop using PFAS-containing foam
• June 2020: Several states including New York, California, and Washington banned the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foams

These regulatory actions have forced manufacturers to develop alternative firefighting foams without PFAS chemicals, effectively removing many dangerous products from the market.

Statute of Limitations for AFFF Lawsuits

Time limits for filing AFFF lawsuits vary by state, but generally require claims to be filed within 2-3 years from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered.

State-specific statutes include:

• Texas: 2 years from diagnosis or discovery of cause
• California: 2 years from diagnosis
• Florida: 4 years from discovery
• New York: 3 years from discovery
• Illinois: 2 years from diagnosis

However, the application of the discovery rule can create exceptions, as many victims only recently learned of the connection between their illness and firefighting foam exposure. Additionally, some states have implemented special provisions extending deadlines for toxic exposure cases.

Related Articles:

• South Carolina Firefighter Foam Lawsuit
• Tennessee Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Update

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

FAQs

1. What Companies Manufacture AFFF Linked To Cancer?

Major manufacturers include 3M, DuPont, Chemours, Kidde, Tyco Fire Products, and Chemguard. These companies produced AFFF containing PFAS chemicals despite evidence suggesting health risks associated with these substances.

2. How Long Does It Take to Settle an AFFF Lawsuit?

Most AFFF lawsuits take 12-24 months to resolve, though complex cases may take longer. Factors affecting timeline include case complexity, evidence strength, and defendant cooperation. The MDL process may expedite settlements.

3. What Health Risks Are Associated With PFAS Exposure?

PFAS exposure is linked to kidney, testicular, liver, breast, and ovarian cancers. Additional risks include thyroid disease, decreased fertility, hormone disruption, and compromised immune function in firefighters and nearby communities.

4. How Much Compensation Can I Receive For AFFF Exposure?

Settlement amounts range from $200,000 to $3,500,000 depending on diagnosis severity, exposure duration, and medical expenses. Factors influencing compensation include age, career impact, and required treatments.

5. Can Family Members of Deceased Firefighters File Claims?

Yes, immediate family members can file wrongful death claims if their loved one died from cancer linked to AFFF exposure. These cases may seek compensation for lost income, medical costs, and emotional suffering.

6. Are Military Firefighters Eligible For AFFF Lawsuits?

Military firefighters can pursue claims against foam manufacturers despite limitations on suing the government. Veterans with AFFF exposure-related cancers may qualify for both VA benefits and lawsuit compensation.

7. How Is PFAS Contamination From Firefighting Foam Proven?

Proof requires employment records, medical documentation, expert testimony, and sometimes blood tests showing elevated PFAS levels. Environmental testing near training facilities can provide additional supporting evidence.

8. What Should I Do If I Suspect AFFF Exposure?

Seek immediate medical evaluation, gather employment records documenting AFFF exposure, consult with a specialized attorney, and consider blood testing for PFAS levels. Early action improves both health outcomes and legal position.

Get A Free Texas Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for AFFF-related illnesses. Most states require claims to be filed within 2-3 years from the date of cancer diagnosis or discovery of the connection to firefighting foam exposure.

Our specialized legal team offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Comprehensive support throughout the litigation process
• Access to top medical experts and resources

Don’t let critical deadlines pass while you focus on your health. The AFFF PFAS contamination litigation is moving forward rapidly, and securing your place in this litigation could be the difference between receiving the compensation you deserve and missing out entirely.

Reference:

1. https://dec.alaska.gov/spar/csp/pfas/firefighting-foam
2. https://www.iaff.org/news/global-health-organization-links-fire-fighting-and-occupational-cancer/
3. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/index.html