PFAS Water Contamination Lawsuit (Ohio)
What is PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic chemicals linked to serious health risks. These substances are found in many household products and have been used in manufacturing for decades.
Despite their convenience, PFAS do not break down in the environment, leading to long-term contamination of water sources, air, and soil. Individuals living in many Ohio cities have been exposed to PFAS contamination in groundwater and surface water due to the use of firefighting foam (also known as AFFF).
What is AFFF?
AFFF, also known as aqueous film-forming foams, is commonly used by fire departments to extinguish flammable liquid fires, contains high concentrations of PFAS compounds. These chemicals are highly resistant to environmental breakdown, leading to long-term contamination of water, soil, and even air.
3M PFAS Lawsuit $10.3 Billion Settlement
In June 2023, 3M reached a significant $10.3 billion settlement to address the widespread contamination caused by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This settlement focuses primarily on helping municipalities and water utilities clean up PFAS from drinking water supplies, as these chemicals have been linked to serious health concerns.
As part of the settlement, municipalities across the U.S. have already agreed to receive funding for testing, filtration, and treatment systems to address PFAS contamination.
However, individuals who have been exposed and developed serious illnesses may be entitled to compensation from companies responsible for PFAS contamination.
Health Risks Linked to PFAS Exposure
PFAS exposure has been connected to several significant health issues, including:
- Kidney disease
- Testicular cancer
- Liver cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Ulcerative colitis
These conditions are common among individuals exposed to PFAS over long periods, particularly in municipalities where contamination is widespread.
Other Health Effects
Other health risks from PFAS exposure can include:
- Negative effects on the growth, learning, and behavior of infants and children.
- Lowering a woman’s chance of getting pregnant.
- Interfering with the body’s natural hormones.
- Increasing cholesterol levels.
- Affecting the immune system.
Who is at Risk?
People living in municipalities where PFAS contamination has been identified are particularly at risk. Other high-risk groups include:
- Individuals living near industrial sites: Exposure through contaminated water and air near manufacturing facilities.
- Firefighters: Due to the use of PFAS in firefighting foam.
Mapped: Cities With Known Water Contamination in Ohio
Who Can File a PFAS Lawsuit?
You may qualify if you:
- Lived or worked in an area with known PFAS contamination.
- Typical sources of PFAS contamination include:
- Firefighter training areas
- Military bases
- Airports
- Fire stations.
- Typical sources of PFAS contamination include:
- Were exposed to PFAS on or after January 1, 1960.
Contact Our Injury Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one have been exposed to PFAS and are experiencing health problems such as kidney disease, liver damage, thyroid issues, testicular cancer, or ulcerative colitis, you may be entitled to compensation. Call the experienced personal injury lawyers attorneys of Elk + Elk at 1-800-ELK-OHIO or fill out a form online for a free case review.