Who Can File a PFAS Lawsuit?
Generally speaking, anyone who has been exposed to PFAS or “forever chemicals” and been diagnosed with illnesses linked to that exposure may be eligible to file a PFAS lawsuit. Though as more lawsuits are filed, courts have made it clear that plaintiffs must also argue a “plausible pathway” that traces their exposure to the defendants responsible for it.
If you believe that your diagnosed health condition is the result of exposure to PFAS chemicals, it’s important to discuss the strength of any legal case with a toxic exposure attorney. The law firm of Douglas & London are actively investigating these claims and filing lawsuits on behalf of others, like you, who deserve compensation for these serious illnesses.
What Does a PFAS Plaintiff Need to Claim in a PFAS Lawsuit?
A PFAS exposure lawsuit is rooted in negligence, and in that way like any other personal injury claim. Plaintiffs must establish that:
- The defendants (usually, PFAS manufacturers or distributors) have various duties to the public including safe handling, disposal methods, exposure assessments, and transparent reporting data.
- The defendants breached that duty.
- Individuals exposed to PFAS fell ill as a direct and proximate result of that exposure.
- Those individuals suffered monetary and non-economic damages in the form of medical costs and expenses, lost wages, and pain & suffering.
PFAS Plaintiff Risk Factors
Almost everyone has been exposed to some level of PFAS because they are just so prevalent in everyday items, such as clothing, food packaging, and personal care products. However, those who live in certain areas or hold certain jobs may be more at risk. For example:
- Workers who are in routine contact with aqueous film-fighting foam (AFFF) are considered more vulnerable to PFAS exposure. Firefighters, airport ground crews, petroleum refinery staff, and chemical manufacturing employees who fall ill with various cancers, organ damage or neurological problems may want to consider calling an attorney for further investigation.
- Residents of communities located near airports, military bases, industrial manufacturing sites, landfills, and wastewater treatment facilities face greater risks as well.
- Those who live in low-income communities are at a greater risk of exposure due to contaminated water supplies.
- Anyone living near sites that have confirmed PFAS contamination.
Call Douglas & London
As more victims file PFAS exposure lawsuits, more data comes to light.
If you are experiencing an unusual illness or systemic pathology and are unsure about your risk factors, get the medical treatment you need. Then contact a PFAS exposure attorney at Douglas & London who can help assess your situation and investigate whether a plausible pathway exists between these chemicals and your health problems. We look forward to hearing from you.