Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawsuit

Toxic drinking water at Camp Pendleton may have put people at risk for cancer and other illnesses.

Veterans, families, and civilians faced exposure to toxic water at Camp Pendleton. Many individuals later developed cancer, birth defects, or other serious health issues. The lawsuits allege that chemical manufacturers contributed to the contamination and failed to warn those at risk. Lawsuits aim to get compensation for those harmed by the contamination, while outcomes for different individuals may vary.

If you or a loved one has been affected by Camp Pendleton’s water contamination, please contact us for a free legal consultation.

Table of Contents

Overview of the Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawsuit

Camp Pendleton is a key Marine Corps base in northern San Diego County, California. It has been there since 1942. In the past, toxic chemicals polluted the drinking water, putting thousands of people on the base in danger.

What Is the Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawsuit?

The lawsuits seek to compensate individuals harmed by polluted drinking water on the Marine Corps base. Lawsuits allege manufacturers allowed toxic substances such as PFAS and TCE to taint the water supply.

This water contamination has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, birth defects, and other illnesses. Victims are now seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages caused by the contamination.

Camp Pendleton Water Contamination History & Causes

Camp Pendleton’s drinking water has been contaminated with toxic chemicals for decades. Exposure to these pollutants has put thousands at risk for serious health problems.

How Did Camp Pendleton’s Water Become Contaminated?

Camp Pendleton has a long history of water contamination. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the base was designated a Superfund site due to environmental contamination, including groundwater pollution.

Reports show that water contamination at Camp Pendleton occurred as far back as the 1980s. Industrial waste, military activities, and chemical spills introduced hazardous substances into the drinking water on the base.

Toxic chemicals such as PFAS, TCE, DCE, and petroleum-based pollutants seeped into the groundwater. Many of these substances are linked to cancer, birth defects, and organ damage.

What Toxic Chemicals Were Found in Camp Pendleton’s Water?

Camp Pendleton’s drinking water has been contaminated with multiple toxic substances. These include the following:

• PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
• TCE (Trichloroethylene)
• DCE (Dichloroethylene)
• TPH (Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons)
• PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) – The “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are long-lasting chemicals used in firefighting foam, industrial processes, and military applications. They do not break down easily and have been found in Camp Pendleton’s groundwater. Exposure to PFAS is linked to cancer, liver damage, reproductive issues, and more.

TCE (Trichloroethylene) – A Known Carcinogen

TCE (trichloroethylene) is an industrial solvent for cleaning and degreasing military equipment. It was detected in Camp Pendleton’s groundwater, posing a serious cancer risk to those exposed.

TCE exposure has been linked to:

• Kidney and liver cancer
• Immune system damage
• Neurological disorders

DCE, PAH, & Other Harmful Contaminants

Several additional toxic chemicals have been found in Camp Pendleton’s water supply.

DCE (Dichloroethylene) – A chlorinated solvent detected in the base’s drinking water.

DCE Exposure Risks:

• Liver and kidney damage
• Nervous system disorders

TPH (Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons) – A toxic petroleum byproduct linked to fuel spills at Camp Pendleton.

TPH Exposure Risks:

• Blood disorders
• Liver damage
• Immune system suppression
• Kidney damage
• Respiratory issues
• Nervous system damage

PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) – Found in Camp Pendleton’s soil and water, PAHs are linked to cancer and organ damage.

PAH Exposure Risks:

• Increased cancer risk
• Liver damage
• Reproductive issues
• Developmental harm

These contaminants pose severe health risks to anyone who previously lived or worked at Camp Pendleton. Some individuals may qualify for compensation depending on their medical diagnosis, exposure history, and legal eligibility.

Timeline of Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Events

1995 – Soil at Camp Pendleton tested positive for TCE and TPH, leading to the removal of 14,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil.

1997 – 25,000 cubic yards of soil were removed due to contamination with pesticides, metals, and PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons).

2007 – Waste-filled drums were excavated, and monitoring wells were installed to track groundwater contamination.

2022 – The Marine Corps completed a landfill cap over a 28-acre waste site that operated from 1946 to 1970 to prevent further contamination.

2019-2023 – Camp Pendleton’s drinking water tested positive for PFAS, raising concerns over long-term exposure risks.

February 2022 – Eight wells were shut down due to PFAS levels exceeding federal limits.

Present – Reverse osmosis filtration has been installed to treat Camp Pendleton’s water. While this system helps reduce contaminants, traces of PFAS and other chemicals have still been detected.

Health Risks & Medical Conditions Linked to Contaminated Water

This section discusses the medical conditions individuals who drank contaminated water at Camp Pendleton might contract.

What Illnesses Are Associated With PFAS Exposure?

PFAS exposure has been linked to serious health risks, including various cancers, immune disorders, and developmental issues.

Other illnesses potentially caused by contaminated water at Camp Pendleton include:

• Thyroid cancer
• Birth defects
• Neurological disorders
• Respiratory illnesses

Birth Defects, Developmental Issues & Neurological Disorders

Among other conditions, studies show that prolonged PFAS exposure can lead to:

• Immune system dysfunction
• Developmental delays
• Reduced vaccine effectiveness

People exposed to PFAS-contaminated water for long periods have been identified as having health risks. This raises serious concerns for those stationed at Camp Pendleton.

What to Do If You Have Symptoms Related to Water Contamination

If you were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Pendleton and are experiencing health issues, taking immediate action can improve your chances of protecting your health and legal rights.

1. Get a Medical Evaluation

See a doctor to discuss your symptoms and request screenings for illnesses linked to PFAS, TCE, and other contaminants. Tests may include:

• Blood tests for PFAS exposure
• Kidney and liver function screenings
• Cancer screenings

2. Collect Medical Records

Document all diagnoses, treatments, and lab results that could link your illness to toxic exposure. These records are crucial for medical care and legal claims.

3. Gather Proof of Exposure

To file a claim, you must prove you lived or worked at Camp Pendleton during the contamination period. Collect:

• Military service records (if applicable)
• Housing documents showing you lived or stayed on base
• Employment history from Camp Pendleton

4. Speak With an Attorney

A Camp Pendleton water contamination attorney can help you understand your legal options. Many firms, like ours, offer free case reviews and work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win.

5. File a Legal Claim

If you were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Pendleton and have a related medical condition, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. A legal review can determine if you qualify, ask for one today!

Who Is Eligible to File a Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawsuit?

People who lived or worked at Camp Pendleton and later developed health conditions linked to contaminated water may qualify for compensation.

Criteria for Filing a Claim

Veterans, military families, and civilians who spent time at Camp Pendleton may be eligible to file a water contamination lawsuit. An Environmental Working Group (EWG) report found that over 600,000 service members were exposed to unsafe PFAS levels in drinking water on military bases, including Camp Pendleton.

The Department of Defense (DOD) identified dangerously high PFAS levels in water at several installations.

The following groups may be eligible to file a lawsuit:

Service Members & Veterans Who Were Stationed at Camp Pendleton

Veterans and active-duty service members stationed at Camp Pendleton during contamination periods may qualify. Military records showing base assignments can help prove exposure.

Military Families & Civilian Employees Affected by Contamination

Spouses, children, and civilian employees who lived or worked on the base and later developed health issues may also be eligible.

Individuals Living Near Camp Pendleton Who Used Contaminated Water

People who lived near the base and relied on local water sources may also have been exposed. Water quality reports and residential records can help prove claims.

How Long Do You Need to Have Been Exposed?

How long you were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Pendleton can affect your case. Many toxic exposure lawsuits require proof of long-term or repeated exposure. Chemicals like PFAS accumulate in the body over time, increasing health risks.

More extended exposure periods may strengthen a claim, but eligibility varies based on medical evidence and legal arguments. A lawyer can review your records to determine if you meet eligibility requirements.

Proof & Documentation Required for a Strong Case

To file a Camp Pendleton water contamination lawsuit, claimants must provide:

• Proof of exposure (military records, housing documents, employment history)
• Medical records showing a diagnosis linked to toxic water exposure
• Doctor statements or expert opinions connecting the illness to contamination

Without clear evidence of exposure and disease, it may be harder to qualify for compensation. A lawyer can help gather the necessary documents to strengthen your case.

Many Camp Pendleton water contamination lawsuits are still being filed. If you believe you qualify, it’s essential to act quickly.

Expected Settlement Amounts & Compensation for Victims

If you were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Pendleton, you might wonder how much compensation you could receive. The truth is, there are no announced payout amounts yet.

These lawsuits are still in progress, and the final settlement amounts will depend on several factors. Some lawsuits involving water contamination have resulted in settlements. Individual case outcomes depend on many factors, including legal arguments, medical evidence, and settlement negotiations.

How Much Can You Receive From a Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawsuit?

There is no set dollar figure for Camp Pendleton water contamination claims. However, other cases involving PFAS exposure have resulted in significant settlements.

Compensation in toxic water cases can sometimes cover the following:

• Medical expenses for treatment and ongoing care
• Lost income if health problems prevent you from working
• Pain and suffering caused by long-term health issues

Because every case is different, a lawyer can help you better assess your situation.

Factors That May Impact Settlement Payouts

Several things could affect how much compensation a victim receives:

Length & Severity of Exposure

People who lived or worked at Camp Pendleton for years and drank contaminated water daily may have more substantial claims than those who were exposed to it less frequently.

Type of Illness Diagnosed

Severe health conditions like cancer, birth defects, and immune disorders are linked to PFAS exposure. More serious illnesses may lead to higher compensation.

Supporting Medical & Military Service Documentation

The most substantial cases have proof of exposure and a precise medical diagnosis. Service records, medical reports, and toxicology studies can all help support a claim.

Past Settlement Ranges for Similar Toxic Water Cases

Since the Camp Pendleton lawsuits are ongoing, there’s no official settlement data yet. However, past cases involving PFAS contamination in drinking water have resulted in large payouts. Here is a past example:

• In 2024, a PFAS water contamination lawsuit ended in a $956 million settlement for affected communities.

Since the Camp Pendleton lawsuits are still developing, talking to an attorney is the best way to understand potential compensation based on your specific circumstances.

How to File a Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing a lawsuit for Camp Pendleton’s water contamination can be complicated, but taking the proper steps early can help you build a stronger case.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Claim

If you believe you or a loved one qualifies for a Camp Pendleton water contamination lawsuit, here’s what you need to do:

1. Gather Proof of Exposure

To file a claim, you need to show that you or the impacted individual lived or worked at Camp Pendleton when the water was contaminated. The following items can help you prove exposure:

• Military service records
• Housing documents
• Proof of employment history

2. Obtain Medical Records

Your claim must link your illness to toxic exposure. A diagnosis of cancer, birth defects, immune disorders, or other health issues associated with PFAS, TCE, or another identified chemical contaminant can strengthen your case.

3. Consult a Lawyer

An attorney can review your records and determine if you qualify. They will guide you through the legal process, handle paperwork, and ensure your claim is filed correctly.

4. File the Lawsuit

Your attorney will file a claim on your behalf, seeking compensation from the responsible parties.

5. Settlement Negotiation or Trial

Many toxic exposure lawsuits settle out of court, but the case may go to trial if no fair settlement is reached. A good lawyer should fight for the maximum compensation possible.

How Long Does the Legal Process Take?

There is no set timeline for a Camp Pendleton water lawsuit. Many lawsuits against chemical manufacturers for PFAS contamination and similar incidents are ongoing.

Why Hiring a Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawyer Can Help

Taking legal action against major chemical companies isn’t easy. Large companies have teams of lawyers working to reduce their liability. An attorney can:

• Help to prove exposure using military records, medical files, and testimony
• Handle legal paperwork and deadlines so you don’t miss your chance to file
• Negotiate settlements to secure maximum compensation
• Take your case to trial if needed

These lawsuits target chemical manufacturers that produced and sold PFAS-containing products despite knowing the risks.

If you were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Pendleton, consulting a lawyer is the best way to protect your rights. A lawyer can review your case, explain your options, and help you fight for fair compensation. Contact us today for a free case evaluation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Lawsuit

Here are some common questions we get asked about the Camp Pendleton lawsuit.

Is Camp Pendleton Water Safe to Drink Today?

Over the years, due to growing health concerns, the EPA has lowered its limits on PFAS in drinking water. While Camp Pendleton has tried to filter its water, tests still show traces of harmful chemicals.

How Do I Prove My Exposure to Contaminated Water?

To file a claim, you must show that you lived, worked, or were stationed at Camp Pendleton when the water was contaminated.

What If I Was Stationed at Both Camp Pendleton & Camp Lejeune?

Camp Pendleton and Camp Lejeune have been linked to severe water contamination issues. Your eligibility depends on your medical condition and exposure history. Speaking with a lawyer can help clarify which course of action applies to your situation.

Can Family Members of Deceased Victims File a Claim?

Yes. If a loved one passes away from an illness tied to Camp Pendleton’s water contamination, family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim. A lawyer can review your situation and explain your legal rights.

Speak With a Camp Pendleton Water Contamination Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one was affected by toxic water at Camp Pendleton, you may be entitled to compensation. Schedule a free consultation today. There are no upfront costs; you only pay if you win your case!

Call now or fill out the form to get started.