Lejeune Water Contamination
law

Compensation For Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

July 27, 2023

The Camp Lejeune water contamination is one of the most serious public health disasters in American history. Generations of Marines and their families lived and worked at the base from 1957 to 1987, and a number of them developed various cancers and other diseases from exposure to toxic chemicals in the base’s water supply. Learn more about compensation for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination.

Medical Bills

The contamination of Camp Lejeune’s water resulted in a wide range of serious medical conditions. Those illnesses and cancers are associated with exposure to the chemicals PCE, TCE, and other harmful substances found in the tainted drinking water.

Our firm has the skills and resources necessary to help you claim compensation for these expenses. You can receive damages for out-of-pocket medical costs as well as pain and suffering from your diagnosis. The new law that allows you to sue the government instead of filing with the VA provides an opportunity for victims to hold the U.S. government accountable for its negligence.

To obtain financial compensation, you must prove that your illness was caused by the contaminated water or that it’s at least as likely the water caused it as some other reason. We can help you gather the evidence needed to make a strong case for your claim. We can also help you overcome obstacles that previously prevented many victims from seeking justice, such as a North Carolina law that prevents lawsuits after 10 years pass.

Pain and Suffering

The contaminated water from Camp Lejeune caused many illnesses for veterans and their families. These illnesses included cancer, heart disease, psychiatric disorders, neurological conditions, and more. These symptoms cause a lot of pain and suffering.

Victims who suffered from these medical conditions because of their exposure to the contaminated water are entitled to compensation for their injuries and pain and suffering. They also deserve financial compensation to pay for their out-of-pocket medical bills.

If you were stationed at Camp Lejeune or the Marine Corps Air Station New River and have a medical condition associated with the drinking water, you may be eligible for compensation. We can help you file a claim for damages through the VA’s disability compensation process or take legal action against the government for your injuries. Contact Chris Ligori & Associates today for more information. We can also help you determine if you are eligible for benefits under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

Lost Wages

The water contamination at Camp Lejeune has made many veterans, their families and others who lived on the base suffer from a variety of serious illnesses. Some have even died. These people need compensation.

Unfortunately, the government refused to allow these victims to file lawsuits for their injuries and losses for years. In 2022, this changed when a new law was passed that allows victims to sue the government.

It also made it easier for victims to get healthcare and disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, the bill specifically states that the period of contamination covered by this legislation is only from August 1, 1953 through December 31, 1987.

If you were stationed at Camp Lejeune between these dates and suffered from a health condition that was linked to the contaminated water, it is important to connect with an attorney as soon as possible. The government is likely to set up a system for reviewing claims and filing deadlines may be strict.

Loss of Quality of Life

The victims of Camp Lejeune drinking water contamination are suffering from a wide range of illnesses. For many, their medical conditions have shortened their lives or left them permanently disabled. Others have watched their loved ones die of cancer or other serious diseases linked to the chemicals in the water.

Many of the chemicals that contaminated the base’s water system are toxic for decades after they are exposed to air and soil. Trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), and vinyl chloride (VCM) are persistent contaminants that do not break down quickly.

The federal government was aware of the contamination and tried to dodge accountability for years. It is only in 2022 that the government reversed its position and allowed victims to file claims for compensation. The Honor Our PACT Act of 2022 also addresses healthcare, presumption of service-connection, research, resources, and other issues related to Camp Lejeune contamination. For many, justice has been delayed far too long.