From 1953 to 1987, military members, including Marines and sailors, their families, and military-civilian contractors were exposed to contaminated drinking water in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Sadly, many of these people still struggle with the long-term effects of the diseases such as cancer, respiratory issues, and even neurological conditions associated with this contaminated drinking water.
If you or someone you know was stationed or living in Camp Lejeune for more than 30 days between 1953 and 1987, you may be entitled to compensation from Camp Lejeune Water contamination lawsuits.
What Lead to Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
Between 1953 and 1987, millions of people were exposed to contaminated drinking water in Camp Lejeune, a Marine training base in North Carolina. Evidence suggests that the water was contaminated with toxic chemicals known as solvents, which included:
- Trichloroethylene (TCE)
- Perchloroethylene (PCE)
- Benzene
- Vinyl chloride
- Other compounds
These solvents are used in various industries to strip and dissolve other compounds. They are extremely dangerous to human health, and have led to death, long-term illnesses, cancers, and even neurological disorders.
For over two decades, people living on the base of Camp Lejeune used contaminated drinking water to bathe, drink, cook with, and much more.
Am I Eligible For Compensation?
In order to be eligible for compensation for Camp Lejeune water contamination, you must have lived on the base between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.
In addition, you must have been living on the base for 30 days or more. A new PACT act signed by President Biden on August 8, 2022, allows civilian contractors, military members, and their families living on the base during this time to sue the federal government for compensation. This was once impossible due to other strict laws against suing the federal government for compensation.
However, both civilians and military members can now sue for compensation due to the long-lasting and emotional damages from the contaminated drinking water. Keep in mind that you must also be affected by one of the following diseases or have been affected to file for compensation:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Female infertility
- Hepatic steatosis
- Kidney cancer
- Leukemia
- Lung cancer
- Miscarriage
- Multiple myeloma
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Neurobehavioral effects
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Renal toxicity
- Scleroderma
How Much Will I Receive in Compensation?
The amount you will receive in compensation depends on a few factors. The severity of your illness is the first factor that the Veterans Affairs Department will consider. For instance, if you had a long battle with cancer, or lost a loved one and are now suffering from emotional damages, you might be able to get a more hefty sum.
In addition, you will also receive compensation based on future care you might need. For instance, if you need continued physical therapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or other medical expenses, you will also receive a higher rate of disability.
Because the PACT act was just signed into effect, it’s difficult to understand just how much compensation the VA will provide for civilians and military members. Fortunately, if you feel your disability compensation is not enough, or if your disability claim is denied altogether, you can then file a civil lawsuit with the courts.
Get the Compensation from Camp Lejeune Water Contamination You Deserve Today
It can be difficult to understand how to file a VA disability claim or civil lawsuit. Call the law offices of Dolman Law Group today, so you can get the compensation you need and deserve today. Don’t wait, and enjoy the many benefits of the PACT act now.
