3M Combat Arms Earplug Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

3M Combat Arms Earplug Lawsuit Overview

The 3M Combat Arms Earplug lawsuits involve allegations that the company knowingly sold defective dual-ended earplugs to the U.S. military between 2003 and 2015.

These earplugs failed to maintain a proper seal, allowing damaging sounds to enter the ear canal and cause hearing damage.

Over 280,000 service members have filed claims against 3M, making this one of the largest "mass tort" multidistrict litigations (MDL) in history in the Northern District of Florida.

Following 16 bellwether trials, many servicemembers are still waiting to resolve their earplug lawsuits.

Latest 3M Earplug Lawsuit Updates

• May 2023 – 3M agreed to pay $6 billion to settle the majority of Combat Arms Earplug lawsuits, with compensation distributed based on the severity of hearing injuries.
• April 2023 – Settlement negotiations accelerated after several multi-million dollar verdicts in favor of plaintiffs, including a $77.5 million verdict.
• January 2023 – The bankruptcy strategy initiated by 3M subsidiary Aearo Technologies was rejected by the court, allowing litigation to proceed.
• August 2022 – 3M attempted to shift liability to its subsidiary Aearo Technologies through a bankruptcy filing, which was met with significant opposition from plaintiffs.

3M Earplug Market and Impact Statistics

The dual-ended Combat Arms Earplugs were the exclusive hearing protection device provided to millions of U.S. service members between 2003 and 2015. During this period:

• Approximately 2.6 million military personnel were deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan
• Over 800,000 veterans receive disability compensation for hearing loss annually
• An additional 1.3 million receive compensation for tinnitus
• The Department of Veterans Affairs spends more than $1 billion per year treating hearing damage
• Studies indicate that military veterans are 30% more likely to have severe hearing impairment than non-veterans

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to FDA MAUDE database reports:

• More than 9,000 adverse events related to military earplugs were reported between 2003-2015
• Approximately 92% of reports cited hearing loss or tinnitus as the primary complaint
• The FDA issued no formal recalls of the product despite mounting evidence of defects
• Internal company testing revealed up to 45% reduction in effectiveness compared to advertised protection levels

Related Article: 3M Earplug Lawsuit Update

3M Combat Arms Earplug Injuries & Side Effects

Military personnel who used 3M Combat Arms Earplugs have reported a range of hearing-related injuries, often with permanent consequences:

• Hearing Loss: Partial or complete loss of hearing ability, ranging from mild to profound
• Tinnitus: Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears
• Auditory Processing Disorders: Difficulty processing sounds despite normal hearing sensitivity
• Balance Issues: Problems with equilibrium resulting from inner ear damage
• Hyperacusis: Increased sensitivity to everyday sounds, making them painful or uncomfortable

Do You Qualify for a 3M Earplug Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a 3M Combat Arms Earplug lawsuit if:

• You served in the U.S. military between 2003 and 2015
• You were issued and used 3M dual-ended Combat Arms Earplugs during your service
• You experienced hearing loss, tinnitus, or other hearing-related injuries
• Your medical records document hearing damage after your military service
• You can establish a connection between your hearing issues and earplug use

Further Reading: How Long Will the 3M Earplug Lawsuit Take

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Evidence Required for a 3M Earplug Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, the following evidence is typically required:

• Military service records confirming dates of service
• Documentation showing deployment to areas where Combat Arms Earplugs were distributed
• Medical records demonstrating diagnosis of hearing loss or tinnitus
• Audiograms or hearing tests showing progressive hearing deterioration
• VA disability rating documentation related to hearing impairment

Damages You Can Recover

Successful plaintiffs in 3M earplug lawsuits may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses for past and future treatment
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering related to hearing loss and tinnitus
• Loss of quality of life and enjoyment
• Costs of hearing aids and assistive devices
• Punitive damages against 3M for knowingly selling defective products

3M Earplug Recall Information

Despite the widespread issues, 3M never issued an official recall for the Combat Arms Earplugs. The products were discontinued in 2015, but no formal recall was implemented. This lack of recall action has been cited by plaintiffs as further evidence of corporate negligence.

Instead of a recall, the company:

• Quietly discontinued the product line in 2015
• Did not notify military personnel who had used the product
• Failed to alert the Department of Defense about potential defects
• Made no effort to replace potentially defective units still in circulation

This absence of recall action became a key factor in subsequent litigation, as it demonstrated a failure to acknowledge and address the known defects in a timely manner.

Statute of Limitations for 3M Earplug Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a 3M Combat Arms Earplug lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 2-6 years from the date you discovered or reasonably should have discovered your hearing injury. Important considerations include:

• Most states apply a "discovery rule," meaning the limitation period begins when you discover your injury is connected to the earplugs
• Military service members may qualify for tolling (extension) of deadlines while on active duty
• The MDL consolidation may affect certain procedural deadlines
• Given the settlement agreements reached in 2023, new claims may face additional hurdles

Because of these complexities and the recent settlement announcements, consulting with an experienced attorney promptly is crucial to determine if you still have a viable claim.

FAQs

1. What is the Status of the 3M Earplug Lawsuit?

In 2023, 3M agreed to a $6 billion settlement to resolve the majority of Combat Arms Earplug lawsuits. This settlement came after numerous bellwether trials produced mixed results, with several significant plaintiff victories. The settlement is structured with $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in 3M stock, paid over several years through 2029.

2. How Long Will the Settlement Take?

No timeframe is guaranteed, but as the first distribution phases have concluded, it seems likely that qualified claimants who have already submitted their necessary documentation should receive compensation payments within the next year or two, depending on individual circumstances.

3. 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, decreased quality of life, and future medical needs. Punitive damages may also be pursued to penalize 3M for its alleged negligence in product design and testing.

4. Can New Plaintiffs Still Join the 3M Lawsuit?

While you can still join the 3M lawsuit if you meet the eligibility criteria and the statute of limitations has not expired, it is essential to consult with a lawyer to determine eligibility given the recent settlement agreements and your particular circumstances.

5. What Proof is Needed to Join a Lawsuit?

You'll need military service records proving combat earplug use, medical documentation of hearing issues, and evidence linking the injury to earplug use. A qualified attorney can help gather and present this evidence effectively.

6. What if I Already Receive VA Benefits for Hearing Loss?

Receiving VA benefits for service-connected hearing loss does not prevent you from pursuing a 3M earplug lawsuit. VA benefits and legal compensation are separate remedies, and one does not preclude the other.

7. What Should I Do if I Used 3M Combat Arms Earplugs?

If you used 3M Combat Arms Earplugs during military service and experience hearing issues, seek medical evaluation immediately. Then contact a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options regarding potential compensation.

8. Are 3M Earplugs Suitable for 3M Earplug Lawsuit?

Not all 3M product liability claims qualify for the current litigation. Only dual-ended Combat Arms Earplugs (CAEv2) distributed between 2003-2015 are included in this lawsuit. Other 3M hearing protection products fall under different liability considerations.

Related: How Do I Qualify for 3M Earplug Lawsuit?

Get A Free 3M Combat Arms Earplug Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action against 3M for defective Combat Arms Earplugs. With the recent settlement agreements in place and statutory deadlines approaching, immediate action is essential to protect your rights.

The attorneys at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for representation
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you
• Dedicated expertise in military service member litigation