Camp Lejeune Toxic Water Exposure
For decades, military personnel and their families were exposed to contaminated drinking water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. The toxic water led to serious health issues like cancer and birth defects. Many victims and their loved ones are now filing Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits to pursue compensation.
From 1953 to 1987, the drinking water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with harmful chemicals like trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride. These hazardous substances leaked from storage tanks, industrial spills, and waste disposal sites, polluting the base's water supply.
Despite being aware of the contamination, officials failed to take adequate action to shut down affected wells, notify personnel, or provide alternative water sources. Marines, their families, civilian workers, and others living or working at Camp Lejeune were involuntary exposed to the tainted water for years.
Exposure to these toxic chemicals caused increased rates of cancers, reproductive disorders, and other diseases. Illnesses like leukemia, bladder cancer, Parkinson's disease, and kidney failure have been linked to the contaminated Camp Lejeune water.
Many victims struggled to learn why they developed rare cancers until the water contamination came to light through advocacy efforts. After decades of waiting, victims are now filing lawsuits against the U.S. government and chemical manufacturers seeking compensation.
Camp Lejeune lawsuits allege negligence for failure to:
● Properly maintain storage facilities and prevent leakage
● Test water sources and properly treat contamination
● Notify personnel of hazardous water conditions
Fair compensation is long overdue for the veterans, family members, and civilians harmed by toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune.
Steps in the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Process
The process for pursuing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit generally involves the following key steps and considerations:
01
Choosing a Lawyer
The first major step is choosing an experienced lawyer or law firm to represent your case. Key factors to consider include:
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Expertise with Camp Lejeune lawsuits - Look for a lawyer familiar with the complex legal issues and hurdles specific to these cases. Prior experience with similar cases is ideal.
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Resources to build a strong case - Choose a lawyer that has the staff, financial resources, and access to experts needed to gather evidence and prove your case.
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Personalized attention - Make sure the lawyer is responsive, understands your needs, and will keep you informed throughout the legal process.
Take time to research lawyers' backgrounds, consult with multiple firms, and find the best fit. Many firms offer free case evaluations.
02
Overcoming Legal Hurdles
A vital step is gathering evidence to prove you were exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. Useful records may include:
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Military records showing service at Camp Lejeune during the exposure period
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Civilian employment records
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Housing records for base residents
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Medical records
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Scientific data and expert analysis of the chemicals involved
Establishing proof of exposure to specific contaminants strengthens causation arguments. Your lawyer will lead evidence gathering.
03
Proving Contamination Exposure
Once sufficient evidence is gathered, your lawyer will file the formal complaint outlining facts of the case and allegations against defendants like the U.S. government. The lawsuit must be legally served to the defendants.
Key details like the deadline for filing and the proper court jurisdiction depend on your individual case circumstances. An experienced Camp Lejeune lawyer knows how to properly file and serve the lawsuit.
Are there any Camp Lejeune attorneys who specialize in handling these lawsuits?