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Fort Ord Water Contamination Lawsuit
Fort Ord water contamination lawsuits seek to help people potentially harmed by toxic chemicals at the former Army base in California. Toxic substances were first identified in the 1980s, leading the EPA to name it a Superfund site.
Some veterans, military families, and civilians who lived or worked on the base reported serious health problems. The lawsuits allege that contamination may have harmed individuals and seek relief for eligible claimants. Any recovery depends on the facts of the individual’s case. Results may vary for different individuals.
If you or a loved one spent time at Fort Ord and later developed a health issue, legal options may be available. You can request a free case evaluation to determine whether legal options exist for your situation.
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Overview of the Fort Ord Water Contamination Lawsuit
The Fort Ord lawsuit involved people exposed to harmful chemicals. Researchers found chemicals like TCE, PFAS, and benzene in the water. Individuals at Fort Ord lived or worked in areas exposed to these substances from the 1960s to the 1990s.
The lawsuits allege chemical manufacturers failed to prevent or warn about toxic contamination. Many individuals who lived or worked at Fort Ord now report serious health issues. This includes cancers and kidney disease, potentially associated with the exposure.
If you or a loved one spent time at Fort Ord and later developed a health issue, legal options may be available. You can request a free case evaluation to determine whether legal options exist for your situation.
History and Background of Fort Ord Toxic Exposure
The Legacy of Fort Ord Military Base
Fort Ord opened in 1917 in Monterey, California, as a training base for the military. It housed thousands of soldiers and their families. Harmful chemicals had damaged the area’s environment by 1994. That was when the base closed.
While the site remains under supervision, major cleanup efforts have been made. Certain areas still need ongoing cleanup to address residual contamination in the groundwater.
Timeline of Water Contamination at Fort Ord
Contamination at Fort Ord was first found in the 1980s. In 1990, the EPA added the base to its National Priorities List, designating it as a hazardous site requiring cleanup.
Testing showed high levels of dangerous chemicals like TCE and PFAS. Despite years of cleanup, contamination persists.
How Contamination Occurred: Chemicals and Practices
Historical use and disposal of chemicals, including PFAS in firefighting foam, are alleged to have contributed to contamination at Fort Ord. Over time, this foam polluted the water. TCE, an industrial solvent, was also used on the base. Faulty disposal releases waste into the soil and water.
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Fort Ord Water Contamination Health Risks
Common Contaminants Found in Fort Ord’s Water
Fort Ord’s water supply contained various hazardous substances, including:
Trichloroethylene (TCE)
TCE, a chemical used in industrial cleaning, has been associated in some studies with kidney cancer and liver disease.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
PFAS are known for their resistance to heat and water. Some studies have associated them with increased risks of cancer and immune system issues.
Benzene
Long-term exposure to benzene has been associated with blood disorders, such as leukemia. It may also impact the nervous system.
Health Conditions Linked to Fort Ord Water Contamination
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your doctor about any health concerns.
Fort Ord Presumptive Conditions
Veterans exposed to toxic substances may qualify for VA benefits. This is under broader, presumptive conditions for toxic exposure. Long-term exposure may link to cancers, respiratory illnesses, and organ damage. Veterans with these conditions can access benefits via the VA’s presumptive conditions list.
Cancer Risks Associated with Fort Ord Toxic Exposure
Cancer has been reported among individuals exposed to contaminated water at Fort Ord. Keep in mind that exposure and health outcomes vary. A 2022 AP investigation found that Fort Ord area veterans had a 35% higher rate of multiple myeloma than the general U.S. population.
Other Serious Health Effects
Those exposed to Fort Ord’s contaminated water reported many health issues besides cancer. Some of these are:
- Kidney disease: Some studies associate this with TCE exposure.
- Liver damage: Potentially linked to DCE, CT, and PCE exposure based on published research.
Blood cancers & disorders: Research links prolonged benzene exposure to leukemia and related disorders.
Legal Options for Victims of Fort Ord Water Contamination
Eligibility for the Fort Ord Water Contamination Lawsuit
Those exposed to Fort Ord’s contaminated water may be eligible for compensation. This includes military personnel, their families, nearby civilians, and anyone on base for an extended time. Those with certain health conditions should note their exposure situation and diagnosis. This is especially for cancers and organ damage.
As stated above, veterans may qualify under the VA’s Fort Ord presumptive conditions. This facilitates their access to benefits and legal options.
Is There A Fort Ord Class Action Lawsuit?
There is no Fort Ord-specific class action lawsuit. Many claims related to PFAS water contamination at Fort Ord are part of the broader AFFF Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) in South Carolina. This MDL addresses PFAS contamination at military sites nationwide.
In an MDL, the unique situations of individuals are taken into account. This is opposed to a class action lawsuit, where the plaintiffs are all treated equally.
How to File a Fort Ord Water Contamination Claim
To file a Fort Ord water contamination claim, you will need the following information:
Documenting Toxic Exposure
Individuals pursuing a claim must gather documentation of exposure to toxic chemicals. This includes medical records that show illnesses linked to the contamination. Veterans should provide service records to prove they were at Fort Ord. Civilians can prove they lived or worked at the base during the contamination period. Documents from the EPA and various health studies can also support your case.
Medical Records and Diagnosis
If you’re thinking about filing a Fort Ord water contamination claim, medical records are one of the most important pieces of your case. These documents should come from your doctor and include your diagnosis, treatment, and any notes about a possible connection to toxic exposure at Fort Ord.
Veterans might already have VA records that point to a presumptive condition. While that’s helpful, compensation depends on the facts of your case, there are no guarantees.
Legal Steps in Filing a Lawsuit
Start by meeting with a lawyer. They will help you gather the documents needed for your case. After filing the lawsuit, both sides gather evidence. The process can take months or even years based on the details of the case. Request a free case review to learn whether legal help may be available.
Compensation for Victims of Fort Ord Toxic Exposure
Individuals exposed to Fort Ord water pollution may be eligible to pursue compensation. This depends on health impacts and available evidence, though. Claims may seek compensation for damages such as medical costs, lost wages, and effects of toxic exposure. The outcome depends on the facts of each individual case.
Settlement Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on individual circumstances.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims may be able to recover financial compensation for the following:
- Medical Expenses: This includes costs for treatments, hospital visits, surgeries, and medications. It also includes ongoing care for conditions caused by the toxic exposure.
- Lost Wages: Compensation can cover income lost due to an illness or disability. It can also cover future earnings affected by long-term health issues.
- Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation may be available for the emotional and physical impact of a severe health condition. If awarded, the amount is typically based on factors like the condition’s severity and its effect on daily life.
Severity of Health Conditions
The severity of a claimant’s health condition affects compensation in a lawsuit. More severe conditions may strengthen a legal claim, but results vary based on many factors. Those with long-term or permanent disabilities from toxic exposure may get more compensation.
Duration and Extent of Exposure
Some studies suggest that long-term exposure to contaminated water may increase the risk of serious illness. Those who lived or worked at Fort Ord for many years are at higher risk. Longer exposure is one of several factors that may support a stronger legal claim. This of course depends on evidence and individual circumstances. This may be especially true for those with severe health conditions caused by pollution.
Evidence and Documentation
Having the right documents can strengthen your Fort Ord case. Medical records and proof of residency or service at the base are key. Scientific reports about chemicals like PFAS and TCE plus tests from the base may also support your case, though outcomes still vary by individual.
Key Legal Milestones in the Fort Ord Case
Fort Ord was designated a Superfund site by the EPA in the 1990s due to hazardous contamination. Since then, multiple legal and environmental developments have followed.
Over the years, researchers have taken a closer look at the site. Some suggest there could be connections to health problems like kidney disease and certain cancers. The science on this is still developing.
Impact of Recent Court Rulings
Judges in certain cases have recognized the potential risks linked to TCE and PFAS. That recognition may shape how some legal claims move forward.
How Winder Law Firm Can Help
Note: Fill out the form or call to see if legal options may be available. Inquiries will be shared with a partner law firm under a marketing arrangement to assist with next steps.
You can request a free consultation to check your case. You may be contacted to discuss your potential exposure to toxic chemicals at Fort Ord and related health concerns. If your submission is eligible, a legal team may reach out to explain potential next steps.
Ongoing Support and Communication
The legal team reviewing your situation may provide updates and information on what to expect.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Ord
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The content on this page has been reviewed for legal accuracy by Attorney Aaron A. Winder. This content is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. It is not a substitute for professional legal counsel. Winder Law Firm does not guarantee this website content’s accuracy, completeness, or relevance. This website may contain inaccuracies, typographical errors, or outdated information and does not necessarily reflect the firm’s or its employees’ opinions. Consult an attorney for legal guidance.
Legally Reviewed
The content on this page has been reviewed for legal accuracy by Attorney Aaron A. Winder. This content is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. It is not a substitute for professional legal counsel. Winder Law Firm does not guarantee this website content’s accuracy, completeness, or relevance. This website may contain inaccuracies, typographical errors, or outdated information and does not necessarily reflect the firm’s or its employees’ opinions. Consult an attorney for legal guidance.
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The CALI Excellence for the Future Award® is given to the highest-scoring student in a law school course, as determined by the instructor or registrar. This award recognizes academic excellence in legal education and is granted by the Center for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction (CALI), a nonprofit consortium of law schools and organizations.
Attorney Aaron A. Winder, owner of Winder Law Firm, received this award in Advanced Criminal Procedure while studying at Gonzaga University School of Law.
More information about the CALI Excellence for the Future Award® can be found at CALI’s website.
Disclaimer
This page offers general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney‑client relationship. Allegations mentioned are unproven in court. Information is based on public sources. Inquiries are shared with a partner firm under a marketing arrangement.