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What is the Status of the 3M Earplug Lawsuit?
To date, no plaintiff has settled a lawsuit. At least 288,000 plaintiffs have filed complaints against 3M over the allegedly defective design of the company's Combat Arms Earplugs. As of October 2022, none of these claims have been settled.
Related Article: 3M Earplug Lawsuit Update
How Long Will the Settlement Take?
No outcome is guaranteed, but as the final bellwether trials have concluded, it seems likely that a global settlement in lawsuits may be reached within the next year or two, based on similar mass tort product liability cases.
Further Reading: How Long Will the 3M Earplug Lawsuit Take?
Final 3M Bellwether Trial Ends in $77.5 Million Verdict for Plaintiff
In May 2022, a federal jury in Florida awarded $77.5 million in damages, including $72.5 million in punitive damages, to a former soldier who alleged that his hearing loss was caused by defective 3M earplugs. The case was the 16th bellwether trial in the MDL against 3M and may set the stage for other pending lawsuits.
Other 3M Earplug Bellwether Trial Results
Round Plaintiff(s) Date Result
- Hacker / Estes / Keefer May 2021 $7,100,000
- McCombs May 2021 Defense Verdict
- Baker June 2021 $1,100,000
- Atkins Sept 2021 $8,200,000
- Blum Oct 2021 Defense Verdict
- Palanki Nov 2021 Defense Verdict
- Camarillorazo Nov 2021 $13,062,320
- Finley Nov 2021 $22,500,000Montero Dec 2021 Defense Verdict
- Stelling Dec 2021 Defense Verdict
- Sloan / Wayman Jan 2022 $110,000,000
- Wilkerson Mar 2022 $8,000,000
- Vilsmeyer Mar 2022 $50,000,000
- Kelley April 2022 Defense Verdict
- Vaughn April 2022 $2,200,000
What are Bellwether Trials Used For?
A bellwether trial is a sample trial that gives everyone involved a sense of what the future holds. While bellwether trials often indicate likely outcomes of future litigation, the legal environment is constantly changing. As such, the trajectory of these lawsuits may change as 3M becomes more willing to settle out of court. Regardless, the bellwether trials indicate that juries are considering the plaintiffs’ claims.
FAQs
Can new plaintiffs still join the 3M lawsuit?
Yes, new plaintiffs can still join the 3M lawsuit if they meet the eligibility criteria and the statute of limitations for their claims has not expired. It's essential to consult with a lawyer to determine eligibility and join the lawsuit.
What types of damages are plaintiffs seeking in the 3M lawsuit?
Plaintiffs in the 3M lawsuit are seeking damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and other losses related to the use of defective earplugs. Punitive damages may also be pursued to penalize 3M.
What Proof is Needed in a Lawsuit?
To recover damages for the injuries you suffered from defective 3M earplugs, you will need evidence from your military records. These documents will show where and when you served, and prove that you were issued 3M Combat Arms Earplugs.
Related: How Do I Qualify for 3M Earplug Lawsuit?
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