Military Base Water Contamination Lawsuit – April 2025 Update

Many troops and their families spent time at military bases during their careers. While living and working at these bases, many people were exposed to contaminated drinking water. The injuries associated with contaminated water would not be apparent for years to come. Now, veterans and their families are developing cancers and other illnesses associated with toxic exposure. 

As those illnesses come to light, individuals are filing lawsuits against the United States government and chemical manufacturers. Sources of water contamination include Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF), jet fuel, industrial solvents, landfills, and chemical storage tanks. People who were exposed to these chemicals and developing illnesses are filing lawsuits. For example, 10,000 cases have been consolidated into MDL# 2873 – In Re: Products Liability Litigation out of the District of South Carolina. These cases relate to the military’s use of AFFF which contains potentially dangerous chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and/or perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). These chemicals seeped into the ground, contaminating groundwater at bases across the country.

Military Base Water Contamination Lawsuit Timeline & News – April 2025

March 20, 2025: People With Ulcerative Colitis Are Included in Group Water Contamination Lawsuit 

People have developed serious medical conditions after exposure to drinking water contaminated with chemicals from fire-fighting foams. Many of these people have joined the group lawsuit against foam manufacturers. These AFFF/PFAS lawsuits continue to add traction by adding more injuries that may be eligible for compensation. Lawyers for the plaintiffs and defendants have agreed to add three individuals with ulcerative colitis to the test trail discovery pool. Testicular and kidney cancer are already thought to be linked to PFAS exposure. The willingness to complete intensive discovery on ulcerative colitis cases suggests the lawyers are testing what role these types of injuries would play in a settlement. Ulcerative colitis was included in the C8 settlement about 10 years ago. We believe that ulcerative colitis cases will ultimately be compensated. This order strengthens the likelihood of ulcerative colitis/PFAS-exposure cases being successful.

March 12, 2025: Settlements Could Occur For Lawsuits Related to Fire-Fighting Foams and Water Contamination

Lawyers in the federal group lawsuit against aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) manufacturers could reach a settlement in the next 2 to 4 months. AFFF fire-fighting foams contain PFAS, which are responsible for contaminating water supplies at military bases around the country. PFAS are linked to a number of severe health conditions. Many people alleging harm from these products joined a group lawsuit against AFFF makers. We believe there is a strong likelihood of a settlement before the October 2025 bellwether trial. There was a strong increase in cases filed last month, which suggests lawyers are trying to get cases on file because they believe a settlement could be coming.

March 3, 2025: Settlements Could Be Nearing in Lawsuits Over Water Contamination at Military Bases

Expert motions are pending in the military water contamination lawsuit. Judge Gergel recently affirmed his understanding of major injury cases caused by contamination on military bases because of PFAS chemicals. The frequency of potential settlement rumors has been increasing as we move towards important rulings. We believe rulings that will occur this spring and summer will make the plaintiffs’ cases much stronger, ahead of bellwether trials in October. The defense may wish to settle before suffering the impacts of these rulings. If you have been present on a military base and have kidney, testicular, thyroid, or liver cancer, in addition to thyroid disease and ulcerative colitis, we encourage you to contact a lawyer NOW. You do not want to be too late if you have been affected.

February 7, 2025: Evidence Suggests 3M Knew About the Dangers of Its Fire-Fighting Foams

3M is facing thousands of lawsuits alleging its fire-fighting foams poisoned water supplies at military bases and caused thousands of people to develop various cancers, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, ulcerative colitis, and other serious conditions. New information shared by Watershed Investigations and the Guardian provides evidence that 3M has known about the dangers of its AFFF products for decades, but they continued to market these products as biodegradable and safe. Far from being biodegradable and harmless, PFAS (chemicals found in AFFF fire-fighting foams) are now known as forever chemicals that have sickened thousands and contaminated water supplies at military bases around the country.

January 7, 2025: Government’s Request for Dismissal from PFAS/AFFF Cases To Be Heard in February

The U.S. government’s motion to dismiss as a defendant in the AFFF litigation will be heard February 7, 2025. In a joint letter from the plaintiffs and defendants in multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873): Re Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Products Liability Litigation, the attorneys requested the February hearing. This MDL is for people who were harmed by contaminated water at military bases across the country. The U.S. Government asked to be dismissed as a defendant in Case Management Order (CMO) 25 in February 2024. One year later, they will get to make their case and present oral arguments. Many legal experts think this effort will not be successful.

December 10, 2024: EPA Issues Ban on All Uses of TCE and Increases Restrictions on PCE

Citing the many dangers to human health, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized its risk management rules for two toxic chemicals—trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE). TCE and PCE are two of the solvents responsible for contaminating military water supplies throughout the United States. As of December 9, 2024, all uses of TCE are banned and uses of PCE are highlyrestricted. PCE is now banned for all consumer uses and limited for commercial uses. The EPA took this action under the 2016 Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Any company or entity that is allowed to use PCE under the remaining allowable uses will have to take extra steps to protect workers. One of these mandates will be submitting protection plans under the Workplace Chemical Protection Program.

TCE and PCE have been proven to be highly toxic to humans, affecting many systems in the body. After TCE and PCE leached into water supplies at military bases around the country, many troops and their families developed serious medical conditions. Those conditions include cancers, liver and kidney diseases, and neurological and reproductive disorders. People who were harmed by these chemicals are still filing lawsuits.

November 4, 2024: Judge Orders Designation of 15 Sites for Focused Discovery

The Judge in MDL#: 2873 – In Re: Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Products Liability Litigation ordered the designation of 15 sites for focused discovery. The order noted the challenges both parties face in identifying products at sites contaminated with AFFF. 

November 1, 2024: Trials Expected to Start Next Year in AFFF MDL

Bellwether trials are expected to start next year in the AFFF MDL out of the District of South Carolina. Tier 1 trials are anticipated to begin in Spring, while Tier 2 Group A are scheduled for the fall.

October 15, 2024: Judge Orders Plaintiff Profile Form To Be Filled Out in AFFF MDL

Judge Richard M. Gergel ordered all plaintiffs in the AFFF MDL pending out of the District of South Carolina to fill out a Plaintiff Profile Form (PFF). A PFF helps the court and both parties to understand the scope of the litigation and to establish a threshold for legitimate claims. 

September 25, 2024: Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Cases Move Forward

Depositions continue in the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit. The last day to file a claim in these cases was August 10, 2024. Now, the court has the daunting task of determining what evidence may be presented during trial, deadlines for discovery, and bellwether trials. The first trials will come out of a group of 25 plaintiffs in Track 1, narrowed down from over 1,500. In total, there have been over 500,000 claims received by the military in relation to water contamination at the base.

September 3, 2024: DoD Issues Memorandum for Military to Prioritize Removal of PFAS from Drinking Water

The Department of Defense issued a memorandum requiring all military bases to prioritize the cleanup and removal of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) from their drinking water. The memorandum comes after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set national standards for lower PFAS levels in the nation’s public water supply.

July 26, 2024: EPA and Army Announce Joint Initiative to Identify PFAS Contamination at Military Installations

In a press release, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a joint initiative with the U.S. Army to sample and identify per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at private drinking water wells located near military installations across the country. Sampling and testing will take place at nine prioritized locations in a pilot program before moving to the over 200 installations identified for potential contamination. 

May 7, 2024: Scheduling Order Governing Initial Personal Injury Bellwether Trial Pool Cases

In Case Management Order No. 26, Judge Richard M. Gergel set critical deadlines in the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL# 2873) out of the District of South Carolina. The order also established the pool of potential bellwether trial plaintiffs, which consists of 25 cases across two contamination sites. Plaintiffs in the pool for bellwether trials must have alleged kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, or ulcerative colitis in their complaint.

April 10, 2024: Final PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation

The Environmental Protection Agency announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six types of PFAS. The enforceable level for many PFOA/PFOS is 4 parts per trillion, although the health-based, non-enforceable Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) were set for zero.

What is the Military Base Water Contamination Lawsuit About?

Dangerous chemicals, including PFAS, benzene, toluene, xylene, trichloroethylene (TCE), and perchloroethylene (PCE), have been found in the drinking water at military installations throughout the United States and abroad. It is believed these toxic chemicals caused irreparable harm to the servicemembers stationed at or near these bases and their family members. Military base water contamination is widespread, affecting hundreds of installations and potentially millions of veterans and their families. Studies show people living at or near these bases had significantly higher rates of certain kinds of cancer and other illnesses. 

Why Are People Filing Military Base Water Contamination Lawsuits?

Military service members and their families are filing lawsuits against the U.S. government and the manufacturers of products containing PFAS and other dangerous chemicals. Legal documents allege that the defendants knew or should have known about the risks of using products like Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF) and failed to warn troops about the dangers. 

According to a PFAS report from the Department of Defense (DoD), the DoD began using products containing PFAS in the 1970s. Runoff from AFFF, which is known to contain PFAS, is believed to have seeped into the ground, contaminating water supplies in and around the bases. The DoD has created a task force to help address PFAS contamination at its military installations. Their progress report lists over 650 military bases as Superfund sites, which must be remediated.

People are filing lawsuits for the following injuries related to time spent at military bases with contaminated drinking water:

Whom Are People Filing Military Base Water Contamination Lawsuits Against?

Individuals in military base water contamination lawsuits are filing lawsuits against multiple defendants, including the U.S. government and the manufacturers of products containing PFAS and other chemicals. Thousands of cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation based on the type of claim and who the claim is filed against. 

These are some of the defendants in the military contaminated drinking water lawsuits:

Camp Lejeune and the U.S. Government

More than 100,000 people have filed claims against the U.S. government regarding water contamination at Camp Lejeune. The claims allege that the government knew or should have known the dangers associated with the consumption of drinking water contaminated with PFAS and failed to warn service members. The government’s failure to warn or remediate the problem resulted in higher rates of cancer among military members and their families stationed at the base.

Allegations Against AFFF Manufacturers

Individuals have also taken action against the manufacturers of AFFF. Manufacturers include 3M, Dupont, Chemguard, and Tyco Fire Products. Thousands of cases have been consolidated into MDL#: 2873 – IN RE: Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Products Liability Litigation out of the District of South Carolina.

What Stage is the Military Base Water Contamination Lawsuit In?

Many of the military base water contamination lawsuits are in their later stages. For instance, veterans and their family members had until August 10, 2024, to file a claim in the Camp Lejeune lawsuit. A selection from Track 1 cases, consisting of 25 plaintiffs, will go to trial in the coming months as the litigation progresses. The AFFF MDL is also moving forward with cases continuing to be transferred from state court. 

Can You Still File a Lawsuit if You Are Diagnosed with a New Illness?

Despite the late stages of some of these lawsuits, you may still be able to file a lawsuit if you meet the eligibility requirements. You must be diagnosed with a qualified illness and file your claim within the statute of limitations. 

In many cases, the statute of limitations or legal deadline for filing begins upon diagnosis of the injury. Aggrieved individuals are encouraged to take legal action as soon as possible to ensure they meet all legal requirements and deadlines.

How Were Troops Exposed to PFAS?

For decades, troops were exposed to PFAS through a number of sources, including Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). It is believed that runoff from AFFF, which is known to contain PFAS chemicals, seeped into the groundwater, consequently polluting the drinking water in and around military installations. Other potential contaminant sources include jet fuel, industrial solvents, landfills, and leaking underground storage tanks.

Contaminant Source: Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is one of the most common sources of water contamination on military bases. AFFF contains PFAS chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals.” Despite safety concerns over PFAS exposure, the military continues to use AFFF, arguing that alternatives are less effective. It is believed that runoff from AFFF seeped into groundwater, where it was used for training or emergency events. Wells and tanks storing drinking water were contaminated as a result of the seepage. 

Contaminant Source: Jet Fuel

Jet fuel is another potential contaminant source at military installations throughout the United States. In 2021, jet fuel stored near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam leaked into a nearby well, contaminating drinking water on the base and sickening a large number of people. 

The incident, known as the Red Hill fuel leak, was not the first at the base, leaving many to wonder why the government did not take further steps to secure containers holding these toxic chemicals. Jet fuel contains potentially carcinogenic toxins, including benzene, toluene, and xylene. 

Contaminant Source: Industrial Solvents

The military’s use of industrial solvents has also resulted in service members and their families being exposed to toxic chemicals. One of the most devastating examples is the contamination at Camp Lejeune. Hundreds of thousands of troops were exposed to dangerous, potentially cancer-causing chemicals like trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), when dry cleaning waste seeped into the ground, infiltrating wells and tanks holding drinking water for the base.

Contaminant Source: Landfills and Waste Sites

Landfills and waste sites have become the origins of water pollution on military bases throughout the United States. Improper disposal of chemical waste has led to the contamination of drinking water. One egregious example is at Camp Lejeune, where years of unsafe discarding of industrial solvents and other contaminants in a landfill led to water contamination.  

Contaminant Source: Leaking Underground Storage Tanks

The military’s storage of underground tanks without adequate maintenance has led to troops and their families being exposed to toxic chemicals that have left them sick and increased their risk of developing cancer. At Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickman, the military’s failure to properly maintain a storage tank resulted in the release of petroleum into the base’s drinking water supply. Leaking underground storage tanks were also responsible for significant groundwater pollution at Camp Lejeune and other bases throughout the country.

What Contaminants Were In Military Base Drinking Water?

Water at military bases throughout the United States and across the globe has been contaminated with a number of toxins, including Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), trichloroethylene, and benzene. These pollutants can originate from various sources but have all been detected in the drinking water on military installations nationwide. 

In many cases, the contaminated water goes undiscovered for years, even decades. Military service members and their families consume the toxic water without knowing the threat of harm that it carries when compromised by these substances. 

Water Contaminant: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Ongoing research indicates that exposure to Per– and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) may cause irreparable harm. The EPA recommended lowering the safe drinking water level for PFAS from 70 parts per trillion to 4 parts per trillion after continued reports of adverse health reports. Unfortunately, the U.S. military has used PFAS-containing products since the 1970s and continues to use AFFF. 

Are PFAS Toxic to Humans?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, PFAS exposure can be harmful to human health. Peer-reviewed scientific studies show that PFAS exposure, particularly over long periods of time, can have devastating health consequences, including many cancers, decreased fertility, developmental delays in children, and hormonal imbalances. 

Water Contaminant: Trichloroethylene (TCE)

Trichloroethylene is a hazardous chemical that presents significant health risks to humans, animals, and the environment upon exposure. In December 2022, the EPA issued a statement finding that trichloroethylene (TCE) “presents an unreasonable risk of injury to health.” TCE may come from a number of sources, but most often, it is released into the air from industrial degreasing operations.

Are TCEs Toxic to Humans?

The EPA has said that TCEs present an unreasonable risk to human health. The chemical has been linked to a wide array of problems, including dizziness, confusion, and headaches. Additionally, the toxin has also been linked to an increased risk of cancer after exposure.

Water Contaminant: Benzene

Benzene is a known human carcinogen, meaning it has been linked to an increased risk of cancer upon exposure. The chemical is used as a constituent in motor fuels and a solvent in fats, oils, paints, plastics, and rubbers.

Is Benzene Toxic to Humans?

As reported by the EPA, inhalation of benzene has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia, blood disorders, and birth defects. Military service members are often exposed to benzene through burn pits and jet fuel leaks. 

Illnesses Caused By Contaminated Drinking Water Contaminated At Military Bases

Throughout the U.S., troops and their families have been diagnosed at an alarming rate with cancers and other serious conditions. It is alleged that the higher incidence of cancer is linked to their exposure to toxic water on the base where they were stationed or lived. 

It is important to note that not all injuries related to exposure occur immediately. Many of the diseases associated with the toxin take years to emerge. Common illnesses in these types of cases include cancers, blood disorders, reproductive harm, neurological harm, and other disorders.

Illnesses Caused by PFAS Exposure

Illnesses caused by PFAS exposure include an increased risk of certain kinds of cancer, fertility issues, developmental delays in children, thyroid disease, immune system changes, and kidney damage. Studies continue to emphasize the serious harm that may be caused by PFAS exposure. Unfortunately, the “forever chemicals” are slow to break down and can reside within the bloodstream for decades.

Illnesses Caused by Benzene Exposure

Exposure to benzene can cause a number of severe, potentially long-term health risks. Immediately after prolonged exposure, you may feel dizzy, confused, or have a rapid heartbeat. If you suffer exposure through consumption, you may vomit or have convulsions. Over time, benzene may enter the blood, causing infection, damaging blood marrow, depleting red blood cells, and putting a person at an increased risk for leukemia.

Illnesses Caused by TCE Exposure

Illnesses caused by TCE exposure may include headache, nausea, drowsiness, or dizziness, as it impacts the nervous system. Overexposure can cause pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition, and may increase a person’s chance of developing certain kinds of cancer.

Are Troops Still Exposed to PFAS in Firefighting Foams?

Today, troops nationwide are still exposed to PFAS in firefighting foams. Despite knowing the risk of harm associated with its use, the military still uses AFFF. The government, however, has made efforts to reduce or eliminate PFAS contamination by limiting service members’ use of the firefighting foam. 

According to the DoD’s PFAS task force, no alternative PFAS-free foam exists that meets the strict safety standards of the Department to successfully extinguish fuel fires in an emergency. The DoD has removed AFFF from land-based training exercises and now solely uses it to respond to emergency events. The Department is investing $49 million through 2025 to find a safe alternative and is offering firefighters annual blood testing for PFAS exposure.

What Military Bases Had Contaminated Water?

There are over 650 military bases placed on the Superfund list due to potential contamination. These installations will require remediation to clean up the toxins that have seeped into the groundwater and surrounding environment. The government has undergone extensive testing of water supplies at or around these installations to help determine the extent of the pollution.

Camp LeJeune

Water contamination at Camp Lejeune affected hundreds of thousands of marines and their family members. As early as 1980, sampling of water at the base indicated high levels of toxicity. The contamination likely came from on-base spills related to the base’s dry-cleaning operations and the leakage of underground storage tanks. Chemicals found in the water at the base included trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE).

Fort Hood

Lawsuits indicated that troops and their family members who were stationed at Fort Hood, now Fort Cavazos, near Killeen, Texas, were exposed to dangerous chemicals, including PFAS. Remediation is ongoing at the site, but the risk remains for people who previously lived at or near the base to develop cancer and other illnesses as a result of the toxic water. 

Fort Knox

Military service members and their families stationed at Fort Knox were likely exposed to PFAS through Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and other dangerous products. High levels of trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE) were also found in water samples at the installation. 

Fort Benning

Water contamination at Fort Benning, now Fort Moore, remains a concern for troops, veterans, and their families. Sampling of the water found significant levels of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), while lead paint was also discovered on the base. Individuals who were stationed at the base and subsequently diagnosed with kidney, testicular, or thyroid cancer may be eligible for a lawsuit.

Fort Bliss

Clean-up efforts continue at Fort Bliss near El Paso, Texas. Sampling of drinking water at the base found high levels of PFAS and other toxic chemicals. Remediation at the base is expected to continue until 2027. Families who were stationed at or near the base and later diagnosed with a chronic illness or cancer may qualify for compensation.

Pope Air Force Base

Investigations reveal that water at Pope Air Force Base may have been contaminated with toxic chemicals, including PFAS. These chemicals may deeply impact a person’s health, particularly after prolonged exposure. The military’s use of AFFF, a fire-fighting foam known to contain PFAS, is believed to be one contributing factor to the water contamination as the runoff seeped into the groundwater and infiltrated drinking supplies. 

Military Bases That Are U.S. EPA Superfund Sites

Additionally, here are some of the military bases that the U.S. government has designated as superfund sites because of contamination:

Source: Environmental Working Group (EWG) – Interactive maps for PFAS contamination in the U.S. and military installations.

What Damages Can People Sue For In Military Base Lawsuits?

Damages in military base water contamination lawsuits may include compensation for economic and non-economic losses. Active service members, veterans, and their families who were stationed at or near contaminated bases may have the right to take legal action against the government or negligent manufacturers. 

Damages in a Military Base Water Contamination Lawsuit:

• Past and future medical expenses: Service members and their families who were diagnosed with PFAS-related illnesses such as certain types of cancer, thyroid disease, and other chronic conditions, may be eligible for compensation to cover past and future medical expenses. 
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity: If the injuries suffered caused you to miss work or impaired your ability to return to work, you may be able to claim damages related to your lost income. 
• Diminished quality of life: If the injury impaired your quality of life, making it difficult to perform your daily activities or impacting your relationships, you may be eligible for compensation referred to as loss of quality of life. 
• Pain and suffering: If you suffered physical pain or emotional distress as a result of your illness related to toxic water exposure, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. 
• Punitive damages: In rare cases, where the actions of the defendant were grossly negligent or showed a wanton disregard for the health and safety of mankind, you may be able to claim punitive damages. 
• Attorney’s Costs and Fees: A court may also be willing to award attorney’s costs and fees if the defendant was reckless in failing to warn you about the risks associated with the use of AFFF or other products containing PFAS.

Who Qualifies to File a Military Base Contaminated Drinking Water Lawsuit?

In order to file a military base water contamination lawsuit, each person has to meet certain eligibility requirements. Our legal partners are focusing on the specific injuries listed below:

Under most circumstances, you must be able to prove that you were stationed at an affected military installation for six months or more. It is imperative to note that military base water contamination lawsuits are subject to a statute of limitations or may have deadlines for filing a claim. Failure to file a lawsuit or take legal action within these deadlines may result in your case being denied, so speaking to an attorney promptly is advised. 

Can Someone Else File A Lawsuit on Behalf of a Deceased Family Member?

If your loved one passed away as a result of toxic water exposure at a military base, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. A wrongful death lawsuit helps to provide compensation to family members who have lost a loved one as the result of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. Wrongful death lawsuits can provide compensation for funeral and burial costs, out-of-pocket expenses, pain and suffering, and more.

What Proof Do You Need to File a Drinking Water Contamination Lawsuit?

To file a drinking water contamination lawsuit, you must be able to provide evidence substantiating your claim. Evidence may include your military records indicating where you were stationed and for how long and medical records proving the diagnosis of a qualifying illness and subsequent treatments.

Evidence of Exposure to Contaminated Drinking Water and Timeline of Use

• Proof of Exposure to Contaminated Drinking Water: Your military records can help to prove that you were stationed at a base with contaminated drinking water for at least six months.

Evidence About Your Diagnosis and Treatments

• Proof of Diagnosis and Treatment: Your medical records will help to prove the diagnosis and treatment of a qualifying condition such as testicular cancer, kidney cancer, thyroid cancer, thyroid disease, prostate cancer, or other disorder. You may also need to request any documentation of treatment through the VA.

Evidence Showing Your Losses

• Proof of Financial Losses: If you or a loved one were exposed to toxic water at a military base, you may be able to claim financial losses. However, for these to be awarded, you must be able to provide proof. Documents such as your medical bills, pay stubs, and treatment records can help to support your claim. 

Testimony From You and Your Family

• Personal and Witness Statements: Statements from yourself, as well as friends, family members, and coworkers, can help establish how your injury impacted your daily life. 

6 Steps to File a Military Base Contaminated Drinking Water Lawsuit

There are several steps to filing a military base contaminated drinking water lawsuit. First, you will want to consult with an lawyer who is well-versed in personal injury cases related to environmental contaminants. Military base water contamination lawsuits can be complex, with multiple defendants and ongoing litigation. An attorney can help guide you through the process and ensure you receive the compensation you need to fully recover.

These are the 6 steps for filing a military base water contamination lawsuit:

1. Consult with an experienced attorney: The first step in a water contamination lawsuit is consulting with an experienced lawyer. An attorney can help ensure you meet the eligibility requirements necessary to file a claim. They will then guide you through the legal process.
2. Determine what evidence is needed: Once you have retained legal counsel, they can help to determine what evidence may be needed to substantiate your claim. Military and medical records often prove critical in these cases. 
3. File a claim within the legal deadline: All military base water contamination lawsuits are subject to a statute of limitations or legal deadline within which you must file a claim. Some cases may also have other deadlines that must be adhered to. An attorney can ensure your case meets all legal requirements and is filed timely. 
4. Enter into the discovery phase and negotiations: After the case is filed, it will move into the discovery phase. If you join existing litigation, the case may already be in this phase. During discovery, both parties will have the opportunity to review and exchange information. Your attorney may also enter into negotiations with the other party. 
5. Determine whether to accept a settlement: In many instances, a favorable settlement can be negotiated. Accepting a settlement can help to expedite the process and ensure you receive compensation. If a fair settlement cannot be negotiated, the case may be set for trial. 
6. Go to trial and await outcome: During the trial, both sides will have the opportunity to present their case. A judge or jury will then decide whether to award you damages. If the trial outcome is unfavorable, you may be able to appeal the decision. 

What to Expect When Filing a Contaminated Drinking Water Lawsuit

It can be challenging to know what to expect when filing a contaminated drinking water lawsuit. An attorney can provide guidance on the legal process and ensure you are kept fully informed about the case. Most attorneys accept cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront fees. 

Military base water contamination lawsuits can take months to a year or more to resolve. Accepting a settlement may expedite the process, but a jury trial may result in higher damages. It is imperative to discuss your case with an attorney to determine the best course of legal action.

What is the Deadline for Filing a Military Base Contaminated Drinking Water Lawsuit?

Most cases are subject to a state-specific statute of limitations. Generally, statutes of limitations are between 1 to 6 years, with the majority limiting it to between 1 and 3 years. The amount of time you have to file a case usually begins from the date of diagnosis. It can be challenging to ensure you file a claim within the statute of limitations, particularly if your injury is not apparent until years after the initial exposure. 

The Discovery Rule can help to ensure that the statute of limitations does not expire before you knew or should have known that contaminated water at a military base was the cause of your illness. Prompt action is strongly recommended due to the complexities involved with legal deadlines. 

Military Base Contaminated Drinking Water Settlements and Awards

Military base-contaminated drinking water settlements are expected to range between $100,000 and $500,000. However, the severity of the injury may greatly impact the potential settlement or jury award. More serious injuries or the death of a loved one could result in a multi-million dollar outcome. Several large settlements have already been reached in public drinking water contamination lawsuits, setting a precedent for military claims. 

Factors Affecting the Value of a Drinking Water Contamination Lawsuit

Factors that may affect a drinking water contamination lawsuit include the severity of the injury, conduct of the defendant, where the case is being heard, and the impact the injury has to a person’s quality of life. More severe injuries or gross misconduct by the defendant will generally result in higher compensation. 

Learn More About Military Base Drinking Water Lawsuits From Our Legal Team

Were you stationed at a military base whose drinking water was contaminated by PFAS or other dangerous chemicals? You may be eligible for compensation related to your injuries. A diagnosis of cancer or another debilitating condition may entitle you to take legal action, but it is essential to act quickly. You may only have a limited amount of time to file a claim against the party or parties who caused you harm.

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