Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit: Time to File a Claim?

Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina was once home to one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the world. But Camp Lejeune's legacy has been tarnished by a water contamination scandal that affected hundreds of thousands of people. Camp Lejeune's water supply was contaminated with carcinogens for more than 30 years, leading to serious health problems for those exposed.

Now, after years of waiting, victims of Camp Lejeune's water contamination are finally able to file a lawsuit against the United States government. If you or a loved one was affected by Camp Lejeune's water contamination, it is important to act quickly and file a claim before the deadline expires.

Let's take a closer look at Camp Lejeune's water contamination scandal and how it has impacted the lives of those affected.

Where is Camp Lejeune?

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is located in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and covers approximately 154 square miles. Camp Lejeune was established in 1941 and served as a training ground for Marines during World War II. After the war, Camp Lejeune became one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the world, with a population of over 80,000 people.

What is the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Scandal?

The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal is one of the largest public health disasters in American history. For more than 30 years, Camp Lejeune's water supply was contaminated with carcinogens, including trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), and benzene. These chemicals are known to cause cancer and other serious health problems.

It is estimated that as many as 1 million people were exposed to Camp Lejeune's contaminated water. The water contamination scandal was first uncovered in the 1980s, but it took years for the government to admit responsibility and provide compensation to the victims. In 2012, the United States government finally acknowledged its role in the Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal and created a $2.2 billion fund to provide medical care and compensation to those affected.

What Was Found in the Water at Camp Lejeune?

The water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with a variety of carcinogens, including:

1. Trichloroethylene (TCE): When TCE enters the body, it can cause cancer, liver damage, and kidney damage. Due to its cancer-causing properties, TCE is classified as a human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

2. Tetrachloroethylene (PCE): PCE is a known carcinogen that can cause liver damage, kidney damage, and cancer. The EPA has classified PCE as a human carcinogen.

3. Benzene: Benzene is a known carcinogen that can cause leukemia and other blood disorders. The EPA has classified benzene as a human carcinogen.

4. Vinyl chloride: During the Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal, high levels of vinyl chloride were found in the water. Vinyl chloride is a known carcinogen that can cause liver damage, kidney damage, and cancer.

5. Cadmium: Cadmium is a heavy metal that can cause kidney damage and cancer.

6. Chromium VI: With long-term exposure, chromium VI can cause liver damage, kidney damage, and cancer.

These chemicals are known to cause cancer and other serious health problems.

Where Did the Contamination Come From?

The water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with carcinogens from two different sources. The first source was an off-base dry-cleaning facility that used TCE and PCE. The second source was an on-base fuel depot that stored benzene.

When Was the Contamination Discovered?

The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal was first uncovered in the 1980s. In 1982, a Marine Corps doctor noticed that there was an unusually high rate of cancer among Camp Lejeune Marines. The doctor's report led to an investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA's investigation found that the water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with TCE and PCE. The EPA ordered the Marine Corps to take steps to clean up the water, but the Marine Corps failed to do so. In 1987, the Camp Lejeune water supply was finally shut down.

Who Was Affected by the Contamination?

It is estimated that as many as 1 million people were exposed to Camp Lejeune's contaminated water. The people most affected by the contamination are those who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune from 1953 to 1987.

These individuals include Marines, sailors, civilian employees, and their families. Children who were born to parents who were exposed to Camp Lejeune's water are also considered to be victims of the contamination.

What Health Problems Are Associated with the Contamination?

The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal has been linked to a variety of serious health problems, including cancer, reproductive problems, birth defects, and immune system disorders.

• Cancer is the most common health problem associated with the Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal. The chemicals that contaminated Camp Lejeune's water are known to cause cancer.
• Reproductive problems, such as infertility and miscarriages, are also common among Camp Lejeune victims. Birth defects are also common among the children of Camp Lejeune victims.
• Immune system disorders, such as autoimmune diseases, are also common among Camp Lejeune victims. These disorders can be debilitating and even life-threatening.

What is the Camp Lejeune Justice Act?

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a federal law that provides benefits to veterans and their families who were exposed to Camp Lejeune's contaminated water. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act provides for free medical care for those affected by the water contamination scandal, as well as financial compensation for those who have suffered injuries or illnesses as a result of the contamination. With the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, veterans and their families finally have the chance to get the justice they deserve.

Who is eligible for benefits under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act?

Veterans and their families who were exposed to Camp Lejeune's contaminated water are eligible for benefits under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. In order to receive benefits, veterans must have served at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between 1^st of August, 1953, and 31^th of December, 1987. Family members of veterans who served at Camp Lejeune are also eligible for benefits, even if they did not serve at the base themselves.

How do I get compensation under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act?

If you or a loved one was exposed to Camp Lejeune's contaminated water, you may be entitled to benefits under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. Here's what you need to do to file a claim:

1. Gather your documents.

You will need to provide proof of your service at Camp Lejeune, as well as proof of your exposure to the contaminated water. Your medical records may also be helpful in proving your case. Here's the list of documents you'll need:

• Camp Lejeune service records
• Camp Lejeune water exposure records
• Information on prior benefits claims or disability compensation
• Medical records
• Veterans Administration documents
• Travel records

2. Hiring a Camp Lejeune lawyer.

You don't need to hire a Camp Lejeune lawyer, but it may increase your chances of success. A Camp Lejeune lawyer will be familiar with the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and can help you gather the necessary documentation. A lawyer can also help you navigate the claims process and represent you in court, if necessary.

3. Assessing Damages in a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit

If you've been injured by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, you may be entitled to financial compensation. You can recover damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Punitive damages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

4. Determining Liability for Injuries Caused due to Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

In order to win a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit, you'll need to prove that the United States government is liable for your injuries. Where to file your Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit will depend on the facts of your case. You may be able to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit in federal court or in state court.

5. The Statute of Limitations for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuits

The statute of limitations is the time limit you have to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit. The statute of limitations for the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 is 2 years from the date of the statute's enactment. This means you have 2 years from the date of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act's enactment to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit.

If you don't file your Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit within the statute of limitations, you may be barred from recovery.

6. Filing your claim.

You can file your Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit in one of two ways:

• File a claim with the Veterans Administration.
• File a civil suit in federal court.

If you choose to file a claim with the Veterans Administration, you'll need to fill out a VA Form 21-526EZ. You can get this form from the VA website or from your local VA office. If you choose to file a civil suit, you'll need to file a complaint with the clerk of your federal district court.

7. The Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Litigation

The Camp Lejeune water contamination litigation is ongoing. If you have been injured by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, you may be able to join the litigation and recover compensation for your injuries.

The Camp Lejeune water contamination litigation is a class action lawsuit that was filed on behalf of all those who were injured by the Camp Lejeune water contamination. The lawsuit is currently in the discovery phase, which means that the lawyers are gathering evidence to support their claims.

If you have been injured by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, you may be able to join the litigation and recover compensation for your injuries. To join the litigation, you'll need to file a claim form with the court. The claim form is available on the website of the law firm representing the plaintiffs in the case.

8. Waiting for a decision.

The Veteran’s Administration has up to one year to make a decision on your claim. If you file a civil suit, the process may take longer. If you're not satisfied with the decision, you can appeal the decision or file a new claim.

These are just some of the things you need to know about Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits. For more information, contact a Camp Lejeune lawyer today.

Why Should I Hire a Camp Lejeune Lawyer?

If you or a loved one were stationed at Camp Lejeune while the water was contaminated, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit. The lawyers at The Injury Firm have experience handling these types of cases and can help you get the compensation you deserve.

There are a number of reasons why you should consider hiring a Camp Lejeune lawyer to handle your case:

• Experience handling Camp Lejeune water contamination cases - The lawyers at The Injury Firm have successfully represented many clients to win these types of cases and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
• Free consultation - The Injury Firm offers a free initial consultation to help you understand your legal options and decide if filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit is right for you.
• No upfront costs - With contingency fee arrangements, you will not have to pay any upfront costs to hire The Injury Firm. You will only owe attorney's fees if they are successful in securing a settlement or verdict on your behalf.
• Access to resources - The Injury Firm has the resources necessary to handle these complex cases. They will work with experts and investigators to build a strong case on your behalf.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you served at Camp Lejeune and were later treated with cancer or another serious illness, you may be entitled to compensation. The Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit is currently ongoing, and many individuals have already filed claims and been compensated for their injuries.

If you believe that you may have a case, it is important to act quickly, as there are strict deadlines in place. Our team of experienced Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyers can help you to understand your rights and options, and ensure that your claim is filed in a timely manner. Contact us today for a free consultation. We will fight for the compensation you deserve.