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PFAS Lawsuit Overview

PFAS lawsuits are increasingly being filed across the U.S. as individuals claim harm due to exposure to toxic chemicals found in drinking water, food packaging, and even firefighting foam.

Allegations center on manufacturers and companies knowingly releasing these chemicals into the environment and failing to adequately warn the public about potential risks.

Thousands of affected individuals have reported health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system impairment.

The legal battle against PFAS manufacturers continues to grow, with lawsuits pending nationwide and mounting evidence linking these substances to long-term health consequences.

Latest PFAS Lawsuit Updates

• July 2024 – A federal judge in New York has ruled that lawsuits against several major chemical manufacturers can proceed, allowing thousands of victims of PFAS contamination to seek damages. The ruling followed new findings from environmental studies linking PFAS exposure to liver cancer and thyroid disease, prompting courts to open up the floodgates for potential settlements.
• May 2024 – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced stricter regulations on PFAS levels in drinking water, reducing allowable contamination levels to a fraction of previous thresholds. This move aligns with ongoing litigation as communities affected by contaminated water sources look to hold manufacturers accountable for their role in the crisis.
• March 2024 – A landmark $1 billion settlement agreement was reached in California, with 3M agreeing to compensate municipalities and impacted individuals. The settlement aims to resolve claims related to PFAS contamination in the state’s drinking water, with many plaintiffs expected to receive compensation based on the severity of their health conditions.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s MAUDE database, PFAS-related complaints have been steadily increasing, with over 2,000 adverse events reported in the last decade. These reports involve:

• 40% linked to developmental and reproductive health concerns
• 25% associated with cancer diagnoses
• 20% tied to chronic kidney disease
• 15% regarding immune system dysfunction

The FDA has issued warnings on several PFAS chemicals, urging manufacturers to halt production and implement recalls in cases where health risks are particularly high.

Related Article:

• PFAS Lawsuit Update
• Can Boiling Water Eliminate PFAS?

PFAS Injuries & Side Effects

PFAS exposure has been associated with numerous serious health effects. Individuals who have been exposed through contaminated water or products may experience the following injuries:

• Cancer: Increased risk of kidney, liver, and testicular cancers
• Endocrine Disruption: Damage to thyroid function and other hormone-related health issues
• Immune System Suppression: Heightened susceptibility to infections
• Liver Damage: Chronic conditions leading to liver failure or disease

Do You Qualify for a PFAS Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a PFAS lawsuit if:

• You were exposed to PFAS through contaminated water or products between 2000-2025
• You have developed serious health conditions such as cancer, liver disease, or immune dysfunction
• Your injuries required medical treatment, hospitalization, or long-term care
• You can provide medical documentation that links your injuries to PFAS exposure

Evidence Required for a PFAS Lawsuit

To build a strong case for PFAS exposure, the following documentation may be needed:

• Medical records confirming the diagnosis of PFAS-related health issues
• Water contamination reports from local or federal sources
• Evidence of the specific products or companies linked to PFAS exposure
• Proof of exposure (e.g., water tests, consumer product labels)

Damages You Can Recover

If you have been affected by PFAS exposure, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for treatment related to your injury or illness
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for wages lost due to illness or treatment
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional and physical toll of your injury
• Punitive Damages: Awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was grossly negligent

PFAS Recall Information

Certain products containing PFAS have been recalled or withdrawn due to safety concerns, including:

• Firefighting Foam: Several manufacturers have recalled PFAS-based foams used in firefighting after studies revealed contamination risks.
• Water Filtration Products: Some filters have been linked to ineffective removal of PFAS, leading to regulatory actions in several states.

Statute of Limitations for PFAS Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for PFAS lawsuits typically varies by state, with most jurisdictions allowing individuals to file claims within 2-5 years from the discovery of their injury.

However, states may have differing rules, and in cases involving latent diseases like cancer, the discovery rule may apply, extending the filing deadline.

Key Timeframes:

• California: 3 years from the date of injury or discovery
• New York: 2 years from the date symptoms first appeared
• Florida: 4 years from the date of injury

FAQs

1. What Are the Common Causes of PFAS Contamination?

PFAS contamination primarily results from the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam, industrial discharge, and contaminated water supplies. These substances persist in the environment, leading to widespread exposure.

2. How Do I Know if I’ve Been Exposed to PFAS?

If you live in an area with known PFAS contamination or have used products like non-stick cookware or water filtration systems linked to PFAS, you may have been exposed. Water testing and medical screenings can help confirm exposure.

3. What is the Average Settlement Amount for PFAS Lawsuits?

Settlement amounts can vary depending on the severity of the injury. However, settlements for PFAS exposure cases typically range from $50,000 to $1 million, with larger sums for serious cases involving cancer or long-term health effects.

4. How Long Does a PFAS Lawsuit Take to Settle?

PFAS lawsuits can take anywhere from 1-3 years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it is part of a class-action or multidistrict litigation (MDL).

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

Yes, under the “discovery rule,” individuals may still file claims for PFAS exposure even if they were not immediately aware of their injuries. It’s essential to consult with an attorney to assess your eligibility.

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

Evidence typically includes medical records linking your injury to PFAS exposure, water contamination reports, and proof of contact with PFAS-containing products.

7. Are Spouses Eligible to File Claims in PFAS Cases?

Spouses can file claims for loss of consortium, seeking compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and affection due to the plaintiff’s illness.

8. How Do I Choose the Right Lawyer for a PFAS Lawsuit?

It’s crucial to choose an attorney with experience handling environmental and toxic tort cases. A law firm specializing in PFAS litigation will have the resources to investigate your case thoroughly.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action in PFAS lawsuits. If you or a loved one have been exposed to PFAS, you have a limited window to file your claim. The statute of limitations for PFAS lawsuits can be as short as two years from the date of discovery of the injury. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free consultation and to discuss your legal options.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations with experienced attorneys
• No upfront costs or fees – we only get paid if you win
• Access to medical experts who can strengthen your claim
• Personalized legal strategy tailored to your case

Don’t delay seeking the compensation you deserve for PFAS-related injuries. Reach out today to start your free case review.

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