What Role Does a Lawyer Play in Securing PFAS Compensation?
A lawyer plays a crucial role in securing compensation for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) exposure by navigating the complex legal and scientific aspects of such cases. They investigate the source of contamination, identify liable parties, and gather critical evidence, including environmental data and medical records, to build a strong case. Lawyers also assess the full scope of damages, including health care costs, property devaluation, and emotional distress, ensuring victims receive fair compensation.
At Douglas & London, our team of attorneys understands the complexity of an environmental toxic exposure lawsuit. If you have experienced serious side effects linked to exposure to environmental toxins, call now to speak to our knowledgeable staff or submit an online contact form. We will provide a free case evaluation to determine which parties may be liable for your injuries and their related costs. If you decide to move forward with a chemical exposure lawsuit, you owe us no fees unless we achieve restitution on your behalf.
Why Work with a Toxic Exposure Attorney
Working with a toxic exposure attorney is essential for effectively addressing the complexities of cases involving harmful contaminants. They have specialized knowledge of environmental laws and the intricate regulations governing toxic substances. They can identify liable parties, build strong cases supported by expert testimony, and navigate legal and administrative hurdles.
To successfully secure restitution in your case, a toxic tort lawyer will have to demonstrate that:
- The defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff
- The defendant breached that duty of care through willful negligence or inaction
- The breach directly caused injury to the plaintiff
Additionally, they advocate for fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and emotional distress, often against powerful corporations or government entities.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” are man-made compounds known for their exceptional durability and resistance to breaking down. Found in everyday items like non-stick cookware, firefighting foam, and water-resistant clothing, PFAS have seeped into the environment, accumulating in water supplies, soil, and even the human body. This persistence has serious implications, as research links PFAS exposure to cancer, liver damage, thyroid disorders, immune system dysfunction, and developmental delays.
Firefighting Foam
Firefighting foam, particularly aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), has been widely used to suppress high-intensity fuel fires at airports, military bases, and industrial sites. This foam contains PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which, as noted, seep into soil and water systems during use or disposal.
Individuals who may have been contaminated by Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) include firefighters, military personnel, and airport workers who directly handled or were exposed to the foam during training exercises or firefighting operations. Residents and workers living or operating near airports, military bases, or industrial facilities where AFFF was used are also at risk.
An AFFF lawyer can determine if you or a loved one qualify for an AFFF lawsuit and provide the representation you need to hold liable parties accountable for their negligence.
Identifying the Source of Contamination
A toxic exposure lawyer employs a combination of investigative techniques, legal tools, and expert resources to identify the source of contamination. They begin by gathering evidence through environmental testing, reviewing property records, and examining industrial activity in the area to pinpoint potential sources. By working with environmental scientists, toxicologists, and public health experts, they analyze contamination patterns and trace pollutants back to their origin, such as factories, military bases, chemical manufacturers, waste disposal facilities, and fire training centers.
Additionally, they leverage legal mechanisms like subpoenas and discovery requests to obtain internal documents from suspected parties, including permits, compliance records, and operational logs. These records can reveal instances of negligence, regulatory violations, or improper disposal practices. By piecing together this information, a lawyer identifies the responsible parties and also establishes a clear link between the contamination and the harm suffered by victims, laying the groundwork for a strong legal case.
Establishing Causality
Medical records are critical in toxic exposure cases because they provide essential evidence linking the plaintiff’s health issues to the exposure. These records document the plaintiff’s medical history, pre-existing conditions, and any changes in health after the exposure, establishing a timeline that helps connect the harmful substance to the resulting injuries. They also serve as objective evidence of the severity and nature of the injuries, which is crucial for calculating damages and compensation.
Additionally, medical records allow lawyers to demonstrate causality by comparing the plaintiff’s symptoms with known effects of the toxic substance, often supported by expert medical testimony. These records are indispensable in refuting claims by defendants that the injuries were caused by unrelated factors, ensuring that the plaintiff’s case is built on credible, verifiable documentation.
Schedule a Free Consultation
At Douglas & London, we have been pursuing justice on behalf of innocent victims for nearly 20 years. We have secured more than $18 billion in settlements and jury verdicts on behalf of our valued clients. If you would like to know more about PFAS exposure or AFFF lawsuits, call us today to book a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront legal costs.
