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Camp Lejeune water contamination is a health hazard that has put United States Marines, their families, and others who lived at Camp Lejeune at risk. The dangerous dumping of toxic chemicals contaminated drinking water at the base in North Carolina, and now victims are seeking compensation for health problems through a water contamination lawsuit.
What Happened at Camp Lejeune?
The U.S. Marine Corps began its operations at Camp Lejeune in 1942. In 1982, Marine Corps personnel confirmed there were contaminants in the drinking water. This confirmation came after several warnings from other government officials and agencies about the likely toxicity of the wells.
The contaminants originated from a nearby dry-cleaning service that negligently disposed of chemicals. The chemicals leaked into Camp Lejeune’s water source, exposing Camp Lejeune residents, workers, and visitors to toxic water.
Health Problems Linked to Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) lists several significant health problems linked to Camp Lejeune water contamination, including:
- Adult leukemia
- Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes
- Liver cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Parkinson’s disease
Who Can Take Legal Action for the Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune?
The VA provides healthcare and other benefits for veterans who were on active duty for at least 30 days (either in a row or non-consecutively) between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987. However, these and the following restrictions may not apply to someone pursuing compensation through a lawsuit.
Generally, you may seek compensation through VA or a lawsuit if:
- You have suffered a health condition after living at Camp Lejeune for any period between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987
- You lost a loved one from a health condition after they lived or worked at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987
Securing benefits from VA can be a lengthy and complex process. It is often beneficial to have attorneys who are familiar with the process to file your case for benefits. Mistakes on your application can ultimately delay receipt of your benefits or result in a denial.
What Is the Basis of Camp Lejeune Lawsuits?
The basis of Camp Lejeune lawsuits is that the U.S. Marine Corps failed to protect residents and workers at Camp Lejeune from toxic contamination.
Each case is unique. However, the central argument of each Camp Lejeune lawsuit is similar: The Marine Corps required you to live or work at Camp Lejeune but did not provide safe water for drinking, bathing, or cooking and did not remedy threats to your health through your only supply of water.
Recent legislation has acknowledged the right of victims to recover compensation from the government because of this failure.
Recoverable Damages for Victims of Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune
If you or a loved one have suffered one of the many health conditions associated with the toxic water at Camp Lejeune, you have probably suffered significant financial and personal losses.
These conditions require extensive medical care, and in many cases, have drastically affected the quality of life of the victims. Because of these losses, you can pursue the following damages:
- Medical costs: Many illnesses associated with water contamination are serious, including several types of cancer. Resulting medical care may be expensive and ongoing.
- Pain and suffering: Dealing with illness can cause immense pain and suffering for sick individuals and their loved ones. Your pain and suffering may include physical pain, depression, lost quality of life, and other non-economic damages.
- Lost income and lost earning power: If illness prevents you from working, you may lose income and earning power. We can seek compensation for these losses and any other work-related financial losses.
If your loved one passed away from an illness related to water contamination at Camp Lejeune, we will fight for a fair recovery and justice for your loss. You may be entitled to compensation for funeral costs, pain and suffering, lost financial support, lost companionship, and other damages.
Should I Hire a Lawyer to Lead My Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?
An attorney can handle your entire Camp Lejeune lawsuit for you. Hiring our firm may allow you to continue focusing on recovery from your illness. We are familiar with Camp Lejeune lawsuits, the facts surrounding these cases, and how to fight for fair compensation for victims.
Our firm will lead the legal process for you. From documenting your illness to calculating your damages and seeking a settlement, you can trust our firm with your case.
Call Schiller & Hamilton Today for a Free Consultation About Your Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
Do not wait to call our firm. We may have a brief time to file, so it is important that we have the chance to fight for your financial recovery.
Call Schiller & Hamilton today for a free consultation.