In the race to extinguish fires, firefighters have several tools available. Water is the most common, except for oil fires, which makes it worse. The development of firefighting foam gave firefighters an advantage on oil fires, allowing them to quickly extinguish any type of fire they were called to. However, there is an increase in fire fighting foam lawsuit claims due to the dangers of AFFF.
Aqueous Fire Fighting Foam, or AFFF, is an option for fires in:
It’s quick and efficient and helps prevent fire from spreading. There are two types of foams:
In addition to widespread use by fire departments, the Department of Defense also adopted AFFF for fires due to flammable liquids and jet and aircraft fires. Unfortunately, these firefighting miracles also had a downside.
Until 2002, 3M produced a type of AFFF that contained one or both of these chemicals, known as PFAS, or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances:
PFAS is toxic and also “bio-accumulative.” They are chemicals that do not biodegrade or break down in nature and do not leave the human body. They are also known as “persistent organic pollutants,” or POP. Long-term exposure to these chemicals leads to cancers, immune system problems, and reproductive issues. Once absorbed into the system, they are difficult to remove. Manufacturers no longer sell foam with PFOA or PFOS, and the “modern” form of AFFF that is currently available all breaks down completely.
Because of their consistent use, firefighters are at the most risk of having health problems due to PFAS in AFFF. But others can also become ill, including:
Areas where this toxic AFFF has been used, can also experience contaminated groundwater, drinking water, air, and soil. Firefighters engaged in practice drills can deploy large amounts of AFFF, leading to environmental contamination.
Unfortunately, people who used these chemicals regularly were never told about the dangers, which has caused fire fighting foam lawsuit claims to increase. You may be eligible for compensation if you have been exposed to AFFF and are diagnosed with cancer or another illness. Reach out today to get started.
The chemicals in AFFF are carcinogenic because they build up in human tissue. Exposure to AFFF can lead to:
The Department of Defense and the manufacturers of AFFF knew decades ago that AFFF was harmful to humans. Since the 1960s, several studies have demonstrated the existence of cancers to long-term exposure to AFFF. First responders, military personnel, mill and airport workers, and communities near these facilities have likely been exposed through drinking water or through the skin via air particles. This is why fire-fighting foam lawsuit claims have steadily increased over the years.
Fire fighting foam lawsuit claims don't have to be complicated. You need a team with experience in AFF and the dangers you were exposed to. The companies that produced toxic firefighting foam knew of the serious health risks for decades before developing non-toxic foams. Becoming ill from exposure can be difficult and disrupt your life.
Cancer care is expensive and may not be completely covered by health insurance. At a time when you need it the most, there’s a possibility you’ll be out of work long-term, especially with cancer. This puts an even bigger strain on you and your family while dealing with your illness. You may not be back to work for a while—or at all. And the cost of long-term medical care related to cancer can be astounding.
If you’ve suffered any of these health problems related to AFFF, you have a right to seek compensation, called “economic damages,” such as:
The compensation you recover will depend on the facts of your case. Every case is different, so discussing yours with an attorney familiar with AFFF cases is important. Additionally, the effects of cancer and other serious illnesses can be painful, debilitating, and depressing. You may also be able to receive non-economic damages such as:
All of these have an effect on a patient’s quality of life.
Having an attorney is your best chance of recovering damages for your injuries from AFFF and ensuring that your lawsuit is filed timely and correctly within your state’s statute of limitations. For help navigating your fire fighting foam lawsuit, reach out to us today.
If you or a loved one have developed cancer or other serious illness or were exposed to the toxic chemicals in AFFF firefighting foam, speak with one of our personal injury attorneys. You may be entitled to file a product liability lawsuit to seek compensation for the damages suffered due to AFFF exposure. Contact us for help with your fire fighting foam lawsuit.
We’re ready to help. Learn about filing a claim to get started on your compensation. The consultation is free, and we’ll be happy to discuss your case with you and let you know your options.
The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Do not rely on this content as a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney familiar with your specific situation. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.
