Aqueous film-forming foam, or AFFF, contains known carcinogens linked to numerous health conditions like cancer, immune suppression, and thyroid disorders. Individuals can be exposed to AFFF in one of two ways, occupationally or through groundwater.
If you believe your recent cancer diagnosis is linked to AFFF exposure, you may qualify for participation in a class-action lawsuit. A product liability lawyer from GED Lawyers can explain your options and next steps.
What Is AFFF?
Various companies, fire departments, and the U.S. military use AFFF to fight fires caused by:
- Gasoline
- Oil
- Kerosene
- Other flammable liquids
The substance, while effective for fighting fires, is also toxic. AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known to cause a range of medical conditions, including:
- Reproductive impairment
- Higher cancer rates
- Damaged immune system
Who Is at Risk?
AFFF affects two groups of people:
- Firefighters, military service members, or those who regularly use AFFF occupationally
- Those with compromised drinking water supplies
The first group can be exposed to AFFF on the job. Many fire departments throughout the U.S. rely on AFFF to fight fires, as does the U.S. military. According to Environmental Science & Technology, firefighters suffer cancer at higher rates than the general population due in part to AFFF exposure.
Occupational users aren’t the only ones at risk, however. Every time AFFF is deployed, it can enter drinking water supplies by draining into the local water table. When this occurs, the PFAS in AFFF dissolves quickly, making them difficult to remove. In areas with AFFF contamination, residents can be exposed to carcinogens through their drinking water.
Working With a Firefighting Foam (AFFF) Cancer Lawsuit Lawyer
The AFFF lawsuits are an ongoing situation. A combination of individuals and states have banded together to pursue a class-action lawsuit against AFFF manufacturers.
Participating in a class-action lawsuit can be confusing or stressful for those without legal experience. At GED Lawyers, we’re here to make this process as straightforward as possible. If you join us as a client, we can provide you with the following services:
- Determining your lawsuit eligibility
- Joining a relevant class-action lawsuit on your behalf
- Documenting the link between your cancer diagnosis and AFFF exposure
- Pursuing compensation
- Guiding you through the legal system’s complexities
- Handling all your case communications
Our team is committed to delivering results so you can recover from your injuries. To do so, we’re prepared to work with relevant experts and undergo a thorough investigation of your case.
A Simplified Payment Plan
We’ve extended our hassle-free ethos to client payments. You don’t need to provide any upfront fees when you work with GED Lawyers, and our team won’t receive payment unless you receive compensation for your damages. This payment format is known as contingency fees, which allows you to hire a law firm with decades of experience risk-free.
AFFF Exposure Compensation
Compensation in an AFFF cancer case comes in the form of damages. Damages are types of compensation that correspond to an individual loss you’ve experienced. They include:
- Medical expenses associated with past, present, and future care
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
Our firm isn’t afraid to fight for your compensation. We’re prepared to stand up to large AFFF manufacturers and hold them accountable for their negligent behavior. You don’t need to stand up to these corporations alone.
What if I Lost a Loved One to Cancer?
If you’re hoping to pursue a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit on behalf of a lost loved one, we extend our deepest condolences. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is particularly difficult when you believe another party is responsible.
As your legal team, we can support you through the recovery process by fighting for these unique damages:
- Funeral expenses
- Burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred prior to the passing of your loved one
- Loss of companionship
How Do I Know if I’m Eligible for an AFFF Cancer Lawsuit?
There are two general eligibility criteria that you must meet to participate in an AFFF cancer lawsuit:
- Diagnosis with cancer: First, you must have been diagnosed with a form of cancer linked to PFAS (the carcinogenic chemicals in AFFF) exposure.
- Demonstrable AFFF exposure: Second, you must be able to prove that you were exposed to AFFF, whether that’s through drinking water or your occupation.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), cancers linked to AFFF and PFAS include:
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Ovarian and endometrial cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Thyroid cancer
- Childhood leukemia
If you’re still unsure if you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t fret. Our team can review your case during a case evaluation. During this initial meeting, we can discuss your case and determine if you’re eligible for participation in a class action lawsuit.
Who Can I Sue?
Currently, the main AFFF class-action lawsuit (MDL No. 2873) involves the following corporations:
- 3M
- DuPont
- Tyco
- Chemguard
Some corporations not noted here are also included in the AFFF cancer lawsuit. Currently, over a dozen defendants (those responsible for damages) have been named. Our legal team can determine which party could be responsible for your injuries and damages. Then, we can fight for your deserved compensation.
Liability in AFFF Cancer Lawsuits
The AFFF cancer lawsuits are filed into the category of product liability law. These cases usually rely on a legal precedent known as strict liability. With strict liability, you don’t need to prove that a product manufacturer behaved negligently. Instead, you only need to show that:
- You used or unintentionally consumed an unsafe product
- You were harmed by using the said product
To show this, our team at GED Lawyers can review your employment history, your medical records, your place of residence, and other pieces of relevant evidence.
How Long Do I Have to File an AFFF Cancer Lawsuit?
The deadline associated with your case depends on the state in which you file a lawsuit. Our team recognizes that case deadlines can be confusing, particularly in cases involving class-action lawsuits. To ensure that your case runs smoothly, we can:
- Make you aware of any deadlines that apply to your case
- Submit documentation on time
- Keep track of any deadlines associated with your case
Work With an AFFF Cancer Lawsuit Lawyer Today
At GED Lawyers, we’re actively accepting AFFF cancer cases. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you could qualify for a lawsuit and compensation. You have the right to pursue a settlement. Call our offices today for a free initial case evaluation. We’re here to represent those in need.
