How Do I Start a PFOA Contamination Lawsuit? 

PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), a man-made chemical, is used to manufacture non-stick coatings, water-resistant fabrics, firefighting foams, and other industrial and consumer products. To start a PFOA contamination lawsuit, consult an experienced toxic exposure attorney who can evaluate your case and gather essential evidence, such as water test results, medical records linking health issues to PFOA exposure, and documentation of damages. Your attorney will identify the responsible parties, file the lawsuit within New York’s statute of limitations, and guide you through the legal process to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. 

Our team of attorneys at Douglas & London understands the complexity of environmental toxic exposure lawsuits, from class action suits resulting from widespread chemical exposure in common consumer products to individual cases involving chemicals and solvents that leach into the water, air, and eventually human bodies. Call today to schedule a free consultation.  

PFOA Contamination Lawsuit Eligibility 

To qualify for a PFOA lawsuit, a plaintiff must provide medical documentation of their PFOA-related condition. They must also submit evidence that they lived or worked in an area identified as PFOA-contaminated for at least six months within a specified timeframe.  

For example, Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a significant cause of PFOA contamination. AFFF was used to fight fuel fires on military bases, airports, oil tankers, and ships. Firefighters were also exposed during training exercises.  

You can prove your residency or possible work exposure by gathering evidence that you lived in a PFOA-contaminated area with canceled rent checks, mortgage payments, utility bills, or pay stubs. If your work exposure was some time ago, your income tax returns for the years in question should substantiate your employment.  

Steps to Filing a PFOA Contamination Lawsuit 

Consult an experienced attorney. Environmental contamination cases are complex and require legal expertise. An attorney can assess your situation, explain your rights, and determine if you have a viable claim. 

  • Gather evidence of PFOA exposure through water testing that shows contamination in your water supply and your proximity to the source by identifying nearby facilities, landfills, or manufacturers responsible for releasing PFOA. In addition, you can use environmental reports from the government or third-party studies documenting contamination in your area.  
  • Document your health and financial impacts by obtaining medical records that show diagnoses of conditions linked to PFOA exposure. Include treatment costs with bills and receipts for medical expenses. Record lost wages, reduced property value, or other economic losses.  
  • File against the companies, municipalities, or entities responsible for the contamination. Lawsuits often involve claims of negligence, strict liability, or violation of environmental laws. In New York, lawsuits must generally be filed within three years of discovering the harm. 

The Health Risks of PFOA  

The American Cancer Society reports that studies suggest that people living or working in the vicinity of PFOA contamination have a higher incidence of certain types of cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization (WHO), has determined that it is carcinogenic based on lab animal testing and “strong” evidence from people exposed to PFOA.  

The types of cancer that may be associated with PFOA include:  

  • Kidney 
  • Liver  
  • Prostate  
  • Testicles  
  • Thyroid  

Serious non-cancerous diseases associated with PFOA exposure include ulcerative colitis, an increased risk of obesity and high cholesterol, and immune system disorders.  

Fertility  

PFOA can affect reproductive health, including decreased female fertility. Pregnant women have an increased incidence of high blood pressure, which can lead to potentially life-threatening toxemia and pre-eclampsia. Children born to mothers exposed to PFOA may experience developmental delays.  

Where PFOA Is Found  

PFOA was widely used in everyday items such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, water-resistant garments, and personal care products. Because it may accumulate in soil, some people consume it in food. However, most people are exposed to high PFOA levels via their drinking water.  

Those living near or working in the following locations or industries are most vulnerable to PFOA exposure, including military bases, firefighting training sites, chemical manufacturing plants, and airports. 

How Douglas & London Can Help  

Since environmental toxins often affect a large number of plaintiffs with similar claims, your mass tort lawyer can help advise you whether to pursue an individual claim, join consolidated Multi-District Litigation (MDL) proceedings, or enter into an existing class action settlement. Companies facing allegations of environmental contamination may be inclined to make settlement offers to plaintiffs woefully below the true worth of their claims. It takes having a knowledgeable attorney to calculate the full and fair value of your claim and ensure your best interests are looked after in any settlement negotiations. 

Speak with an Experienced Toxic Exposure Attorney in New York 

If you or a family member was diagnosed with a serious illness relating to PFOA contamination, contact a toxic exposure attorney at Douglas & London. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today. We will evaluate your claim and discuss your options. Because we work on a contingency basis, you pay no legal fees unless you receive compensation.