Camp Lejeune is where many service members receive basic training and reside with their families. Two of eight water treatment plants supplied contaminated water to Camp Lejeune. The contaminant perchloroethylene (PC) came from the Tarawa Terrace Treatment Plant. The contaminant is a colorless liquid whose primary purpose is dry cleaning. Trichloroethylene (TCE) was the element that was being funneled into Camp Lejeune from Hadnot Point Treatment Plant. The contaminant is an anesthetic, and the source seems to be underground storage tank leaks and industrial area spills.
The two contaminants, PCE and TCE, cause severe life-altering injuries and fatal diseases. Since the contaminants were on the base for nearly 30 years, many people will face these side effects and illnesses. Some of the side effects linked to these contaminants include:
- Prostate cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Liver disease
- Ovarian cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Leukemia
- Miscarriage
There are many other life-altering conditions linked to these elements. A study found that women who drank the contaminated Camp Lejeune water had a higher chance of their children suffering from a birth defect like spina bifida, cancer, and leukemia. In addition, Hadnot Point Water Treatment Plant had mercury in the water in September 2012. While the treatment plant quickly removed the mercury, there are some side effects Camp Lejeune residents suffer, such as:
- Vision problems
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Blood pressure increase
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Metallic taste in your mouth
Camp Lejeune had resulted in a range of people suffering irreparable harm when all they were trying to do was serve their country. Expectant mothers can pass mercury onto their newborn and unborn children. It is unacceptable, and the negligent parties behind these conditions should be held responsible.
Who can file a claim?
An estimated one million people were affected by the contaminated water during the thirty-year period. The toxic substances in the water are the cause of many lifelong ailments. Several parties can file a claim and obtain compensation for their injuries and damages from these conditions. Anyone who was exposed to the toxic water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 can file a lawsuit, including:
- Veterans
- Workers
- Veteran family members
- Others who resided at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days
Some veterans are unaware of their health conditions and have options. You can file a claim if you have not gotten medical care or disability benefits from the Veterans Administration. Even if you receive care but do not receive disability benefits, you still have options under the Camp Lejeune lawsuit. If you are a veteran already receiving disability benefits, you may not have as many options, but you should still speak with a Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney. Veterans who have applied for and been denied disability through the veterans administration will also be able to file a compensation claim.
What evidence do I need?
We understand these incidents were decades ago, but all compensation claims require evidence. For the water contamination lawsuit, you will need to gather evidence such as:
- Military service records detailing your service dates and locations
- Camp Lejeune proof of residency
- Medical records
- Travel records
- Disability benefits records
- VA compensation benefits records
Collect as much evidence as possible and meet with a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer immediately.
Damages from a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
Through a lawsuit, you will be able to obtain compensation for damages and medical conditions you suffered due to the contaminated water. Camp Lejeune damages include compensation for:
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Disability benefits
- Medical bills
- Loss of personal relationships and enjoyment of life
- Reduction in earning capacity
Hire a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawyer
Establishing that you resided at Camp Lejeune and suffered an injury during that time will be crucial to your ability to obtain compensation. While you have legislation and legal options, you cannot wait to file a claim. Contact a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer at Kwartler Manus, LLC to discuss your legal options and get compensation for your lifelong medical conditions. Call our office at (267) 457-5570 to schedule a consultation today.