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What are 3M Combat Arms Earplugs?
3M Combat Arms Earplugs (CAEv2) were designed as “selective attenuation earplugs,” consisting of 2 inverted cones connected at the bottom with a stem. This dual-ended design is intended to provide users with 2 separate levels of protection: one end operates like a traditional earplug. In contrast, the other end (the “open” end) allows the wearer to hear quieter sounds like speech while simultaneously mitigating loud noises such as gunshots and explosions.
What Was Wrong With the Earplugs?
To date, more than 265,000 product liability lawsuits have been filed alleging that 3M Combat Arms Earplugs were defectively designed, providing a fit that was too short to adequately protect users from hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears) during combat and training. The suits further allege that 3M was aware of this defect years before entering into their contract with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), knowingly putting members of the U.S. military at risk of hearing damage.
3M Ordered to Pay $9.1 Million Over Defective Earplugs
In July 2018, it was announced that 3M had agreed to pay the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) $9.1 million to settle a whistleblower lawsuit accusing the company of knowingly selling defective earplugs to the U.S. military. Unfortunately, service members and veterans who were injured will not receive any of the settlement. However, this does not mean that affected veterans or current military members are left without a means to recover compensation for their injuries.
Related Article: How Much Money Are Veterans Getting for the 3M Lawsuit?
Negative Effects of 3M Earplugs
Though designed to prevent hearing loss and auditory injuries, recent lawsuits claim that 3M CAEv2 Earplugs caused harm. According to these suits, defects within these earplugs were responsible for a multitude of adverse health effects, including:
- Hearing Loss - One of the many injuries associated with the use of defective 3M earplugs, even those intended to block loud and potentially damaging noises; unfortunately, any defects in the earplugs could cause the opposite result.
- Tinnitus - Auditory condition where people hear an incessant buzzing or ringing sound in their ears when there is no external noise present, usually as the result of exposure to loud noises. Tinnitus can lead to hearing loss, and improper functioning 3M earplugs could increase the risk by allowing harmful noises into the ears.
- Other Health Effects - Injuries linked to 3M earplugs include infections, pains, balance issues, and vertigo. These health effects have serious repercussions and significantly impact one’s ability to work, communicate and perform routine daily activities.
Minnesota has a Large Population of Veterans and Current Service Members Who May be Eligible to File a 3M Earplug Lawsuit
A large number of Minnesotans were deployed to conflicts overseas between 2003 to 2015. Many of these troops may have been issued defective 3M Combat Arms Earplugs for use in combat zones and training.
The State of Minnesota has one of the largest active duty and reserve member populations in the U.S. If you were stationed at or deployed from a military base in Minnesota and subsequently developed hearing loss or tinnitus after using defective 3M earplugs, you may be eligible to file a 3M military earplug lawsuit.
Can I Sue for Hearing Loss or Tinnitus Caused by 3M Earplugs?
If you used 3M Combat Arms Earplugs during your service in the military and have since been diagnosed with hearing loss or tinnitus, you should contact the law offices of Schmidt & Clark right away. Our product liability lawyers have handled many defective product cases and litigated against some of the largest companies in the world. Our firm is currently serving clients in Minnesota and throughout the United States. Our extensive legal and financial resources allow us to provide our clients with truly dynamic legal representation.
Related Article: How to Qualify for a 3M Lawsuit?
Why Do I Need a Lawyer?
Hiring a knowledgeable and experienced product liability lawyer can greatly increase your chance of obtaining a just lawsuit payout for any injuries caused by 3M’s negligence regarding their CAEv2 earplugs. Navigating the legal process can be time-consuming and complicated. Placing your case in the hands of a trustworthy law firm ensures that the legal process is put to work for you.
FAQs
How does the settlement process work for a 3M earplug lawsuit?
The settlement process involves negotiations between your attorney and 3M’s legal team. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial. An attorney will advocate for the best possible outcome.
What are the legal deadlines for filing a 3M earplug lawsuit in Minnesota?
Legal deadlines, or statutes of limitations, vary by state. In Minnesota, it’s crucial to act promptly to ensure your case is filed within the allowable timeframe. An attorney can provide specific deadline information.
How can I prove my hearing loss is related to the 3M earplugs?
Proving that your hearing loss is related to 3M earplugs requires medical documentation, service records, and expert testimony. An attorney can help gather and present the necessary evidence to support your claim.
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