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If you or a loved one experienced hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance issues following the use of 3M Combat Arms Earplugs during military service, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping veterans who have suffered due to defective 3M earplugs. 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.
Nebraska 3M Earplug Lawsuit Overview
The 3M Combat Arms Earplugs lawsuits, including those filed by Nebraska veterans, center on allegations that the Dual-Ended Combat Arms Earplugs, Version 2 (CAEv2), manufactured by Aearo Technologies (acquired by 3M in 2008) from 2003 to 2015, were defectively designed, failing to protect military service members from hearing damage.
The primary defect—a stem too short to seal the ear canal properly—allowed dangerous noise levels (e.g., 150 decibels from gunfire) to penetrate, causing hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance issues.
Latest Nebraska 3M Earplug Lawsuit Updates
- April 1, 2025 – According to the Lawsuit Information Center, veterans—including those in Nebraska—may qualify for compensation after suffering hearing loss from defective 3M Combat Arms Earplugs used in military service.
- May 24, 2023 – A federal judge recently ordered the 3M CEO to personally attend settlement negotiations, signaling the high stakes involved in the military earplug lawsuits—including those filed by Nebraska-based veterans.
Reports and Statistics
Approximately 293,000 service members and veterans, including an estimated 3,000–5,000 from Nebraska, filed lawsuits alleging defective design caused hearing loss and tinnitus.
The CDC reports tinnitus as a leading veteran disability, affecting 9–15% of all U.S. veterans (1.3 million VA disability claims in 2023), with 52% of post-9/11 veterans experiencing hearing issues, per VA data.
A $6.01 billion settlement (2023–2029) resolved 249,000 claims by March 2024, with Nebraska firms like Berry Law and Cuddigan Law representing claimants seeking compensation for medical costs, pain, and lost quality of life.
3M Earplug Injuries & Side Effects
Military service members who were exposed to loud noises due to defective 3M Combat Arms Earplugs may have developed several serious and permanent injuries.
- Hearing Loss: Most hearing loss in veterans is caused by noise exposure – typically from gunshots, explosions, and roadside bombs. Normal age-related hearing loss can make the problem worse. Most cases cannot be reversed, but patients may benefit from hearing aids or cochlear implants.
- Tinnitus: Tinnitus affects nearly 15% of veterans, according to the CDC. People with tinnitus experience ringing, buzzing, high-pitched whistling, or many other sounds in one or both ears. Tinnitus can cause problems sleeping, trouble concentrating, emotional stress, memory problems, depression, and other complications.
- Loss of Balance (Vertigo): Damage to the ear can lead to loss of balance. Patients with vertigo may describe symptoms of a heavy head, floating, unsteadiness, or a general false sensation of motion. Loss of balance may appear in conjunction with hearing loss or tinnitus.
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Do You Qualify for a 3M Earplug Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a 3M Earplug lawsuit if:
- You served in the military between 2003 and 2015
- You used 3M Dual-Ended Combat Arms Earplugs, Version 2 (CAEv2) during your service
- You experienced serious side effects including hearing loss, tinnitus, or loss of balance
- The injuries required medical treatment or documentation
- You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the use of these earplugs
Evidence Required for a 3M Earplug Lawsuit
Evidence needed includes:
- Military service records
- Medical records documenting hearing loss or tinnitus
- Proof of using the 3M Combat Arms Earplugs
- Detailed documentation of your symptoms and how they have affected your quality of life
Damages You Can Recover
Compensation from a successful 3M earplug lawsuit may include:
- Medical expenses for treatments, hearing aids, and ongoing care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering related to hearing damage
- Punitive damages against 3M for knowingly selling defective products
Statute of Limitations for Nebraska 3M Earplug Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for filing a 3M earplug lawsuit varies by state. It's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable time limits.
For many personal injury claims, the statute of limitations is between 1-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of injury.
FAQs
1. What's the problem with 3M Earplugs?
3M marketed its Dual-Ended Combat Arms Earplugs, Version 2 (CAEv2) as having the ability to be flipped over for varying levels of protection. However, investigation revealed they were defectively designed - too short for proper insertion, could become loose without notice, and failed to create an adequate seal in the ear canal.
2. What evidence is needed for a 3M earplug lawsuit?
Evidence needed includes military service records, medical records documenting hearing loss or tinnitus, and proof of using the 3M Combat Arms Earplugs. Detailed documentation can strengthen your case.
3. Are there any costs associated with filing a 3M earplug lawsuit?
Many attorneys work on a contingency fee basis for 3M earplug lawsuits, meaning you only pay if you win your case. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without upfront legal fees.
4. Can I join a class-action lawsuit for the 3M earplug case?
While some 3M earplug cases may be part of a class-action lawsuit, many are handled individually due to the specific nature of each claim. An attorney can advise you on the best approach for your situation.
5. What are the long-term effects of using defective 3M earplugs?
Long-term effects of using defective 3M earplugs can include chronic hearing loss, tinnitus, and related psychological impacts such as anxiety and depression. These effects can significantly affect quality of life.
6. What is the current status of the 3M earplug litigation?
As of 2022, 3M has set aside $1 billion in a trust to resolve nearly 300,000 lawsuits, and its subsidiary Aearo Technologies has filed for bankruptcy. Multiple bellwether trials have resulted in both wins and losses for 3M.
7. How much compensation might I receive from a 3M earplug lawsuit?
Compensation varies based on injury severity, medical expenses, and other factors. As of May 2022, 13 plaintiffs have won almost $300 million in judgments against 3M, though these verdicts are being appealed.
8. How long did 3M know about the earplug defects?
According to allegations, 3M and its predecessor, Aearo Technologies, were aware of problems with the Combat Arms Earplugs as early as 2000. Testing allegedly revealed the defects, but the companies falsified documents to maintain their military contract.
9. Were the 3M earplugs ever recalled?
While the earplugs were discontinued in 2015, 3M never issued a formal recall. This means thousands of pairs may still be in circulation.
10. Who is eligible to file a 3M earplug lawsuit?
Military service members who used 3M Combat Arms Earplugs between 2003-2015 and subsequently developed hearing problems like hearing loss or tinnitus may be eligible to file a lawsuit.
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Get A Free Nebraska 3M Earplug Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action regarding 3M Combat Arms Earplugs. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of injury.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential consultations
- No upfront costs or fees
- Payment only if we win your case
Don't delay in seeking the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys today to discuss your case and legal options.