Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawsuit

Potentially unsafe drinking water at Fort Dix may have exposed veterans, families, and nearby residents to toxins.

Some individuals have reported serious health concerns, including cancers, possibly linked to this contamination. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether certain parties are responsible and whether the warnings were adequate.

Some law firms are exploring possible Fort Dix Water Contamination lawsuits. However, each individual’s potential lawsuit differs based on facts related to their specific case.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your potential legal options.

Table of Contents

Understanding PFAS Contamination at Fort Dix

Fort Dix is one of many military bases with a history of PFAS in its drinking water. According to the Environmental Working Group, 2019 testing put Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst on the list of the country’s top 100 PFAS-contaminated military bases. Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst had a concentration of these chemicals of 264,000 parts per trillion in 2019.

Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, commonly known as Fort Dix, was formed in 1917 July 18, 1917. Fort Dix was formally established and named in honor of Maj. Gen. John Adams Dix was a veteran of the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Dix also served as a U.S. senator, U.S. Treasury secretary, minister to France, and governor of New York.

The base has also helped train Reserve and National Guard soldiers. Moreover, the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center is based there. It is well known for its extraordinary training programs that significantly contribute to the USAF’s mission.

In 2018, it was stated that Environmental levels of PFAS on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst were 24,000 times higher than the safe limit.

Dangerous contaminants have impacted the quality of drinking water on and near the military base. Groundwater samples taken on the McGuire section of Fort Dix in 2019 showed PFOS contamination as high as 260,000 parts per trillion (ppt) and a combined PFOS + PFOA concentration of 264,000 ppt, far above even the federal guidance of 70 ppt at the time.

To try and understand the root cause, investigators discovered firefighting foam as a main suspect in the contamination.

The suspected source of this PFAS contamination is firefighting foam, historically used at the military base for training and emergency response.

Tests also found high levels of other PFAS-related chemicals, including PFBS (7,200 ppt), PFNA (4,700 ppt), and PFOA (23,000 ppt), in the base’s groundwater. This indicates a broad spectrum of chemicals associated with PFAS contamination. Because of the extent of the contamination, the Environmental Protection Agency deemed the military base a Superfund site.

As the chemicals (PFAS) badly contaminated the drinking water, New Jersey sought action from the federal government to take PFAS contamination seriously and clean up the toxin. In 2021, the state sued the federal government over contaminated water on and around New Jersey military bases.

What is PFAS, and How Does it Affect Health?

PFAS are also known as ‘forever chemicals,‘ which means that once they are released into the environment, they do not break down easily and can persist for decades. They are artificial chemicals used in all kinds of products. Some studies suggest PFAS exposure may be associated with cancer risks, but research is ongoing.

PFAS are chemicals that do not break down easily in the human body either. The EPA initially set a health advisory limit of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water. In 2022, the EPA issued updated health advisories, lowering its guidance levels for PFOA to 0.004 ppt and PFOS to 0.02 ppt. These non-regulatory advisories serve as technical guidance on drinking water safety and potential health effects.

Health Risks Linked to Fort Dix Water Contamination

Cancer and Other Serious Health Conditions

Some studies suggest a possible link between PFAS exposure and certain cancers, but research is ongoing. Here are some of the possible types of cancer in question:

• Prostate Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Liver cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Testicular Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Thyroid Disease

You may have legal options to explore if you were stationed at Fort Dix and developed one of these conditions. You may be eligible for relief by taking action with a Fort Dix water contamination lawsuit.

Other Health Problems

PFAS contamination is linked to numerous other serious health ailments.

Among other conditions, PFAS exposure can lead to:

• Higher cholesterol
• Changes in liver function
• Reduced immune response
• Thyroid disease
• Reproductive issues

These issues are not cancer-related, but they can still harm overall health. Some studies suggest these health effects may occur after prolonged exposure to certain PFAS in drinking water, but research is ongoing.

If you were exposed to PFAS at Fort Dix and developed health issues, you may have legal options.

Key Contaminants Found in Fort Dix Water

Contaminants include tetrachloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), per- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), benzene, and more.

Main Contaminants Besides PFAS

• Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)

Tetrachloroethylene is a nonflammable solvent. It is often used in dry cleaning, metal degreasing, and wood processing. It evaporates slowly at room temperature and can contaminate soil or water if discarded improperly.

• Trichloroethylene (TCE)

Trichloroethylene is a nonflammable, colorless liquid with a mild, sweet smell. It is often used to remove grease from metal parts. Although it doesn’t appear in nature, it can contaminate groundwater due to industrial use and improper disposal.

• Benzene

Benzene is a colorless or light-yellow liquid found in crude oil, gasoline fumes, and cigarette smoke. Over time, exposure may raise the risk of leukemia and other blood disorders.

Environmental Impact of Fort Dix Water Contamination

As stated earlier, firefighting foam seeped into the ground when used during military training at Fort Dix. Slowly, it started polluting the underground water. Through this groundwater, the contamination spreads to the nearby lakes and rivers. This makes the drinking water hazardous for the inhabitants of Fort Dix as well as nearby communities.

A study posted in October 2021 acknowledged the presence of PFAS in Little Pine Lake and Pine Lake, which are adjacent to Fort Dix. Little Pine Lake water samples had a PFAS concentration of 279.5 ppt, and Pine Lake had a concentration of 170.7 ppt. Both lakes are located near Fort Dix, which has concerns about contamination of nearby aquifers that supply drinking water to those on and near the base.

How to File a Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing a lawsuit can be complex. If you plan to pursue one, it’s recommended that you follow a clear process. Most importantly, you must have strong evidence before you begin. Below are common steps to consider if you qualify for a Fort Dix water contamination claim.

Steps to Take Before Filing a Claim

• Track Where and When You Used the Water
• Note the dates you lived, worked, or spent time on or near Fort Dix. Keep any relevant orders, leases, and records of your time there.
• See a Doctor for an Evaluation
• Ask your physician about possible PFAS exposure and if you or a loved one have a related condition. Keep copies of test results and treatment notes.
• Talk to a Lawyer Early
• An attorney can explain your options and the filing deadlines. They can also advise on the strength of your potential case.

What Evidence Do You Need to Support Your Lawsuit?

• Proof of Presence
  • Gather proof of you living at or near Fort Dix during the period of contamination. You can show your work order, housing records, or other similar official documents.
• Medical Records
  • Gather test reports that prove your toxin-related illness. Seek comments and diagnosis from medical professionals. This will help prove that contaminated water is the cause of your illness.
• Official Notices and Reports
  • Any base-related water testing data or environmental reports can help. This may confirm specific contaminants in the water supply.

Working with a Fort Dix Lawsuit Attorney

Individuals affected by the Fort Dix water contamination may have legal options. A lawyer can help you understand and meet deadlines. They can prepare documents and handle negotiations.

According to the information given above, you can see if you may qualify to file a case.

Contact us for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal rights.

Compensation for Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawsuits

Fort Dix water contamination lawsuits allow eligible persons to apply for compensation. Potential settlements and awards in these toxic water cases depend on various factors. Each situation is unique. Compensation depends on the severity of the disease and/or losses suffered.

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on individual circumstances.

How Much Can You Expect to Receive?

There is no predetermined compensation amount for a Fort Dix water contamination lawsuit; settlements or awards, if any, would depend on individual case factors.

Factors Possibly Affecting Compensation Amounts

• Severity of illness
  • Certain conditions have a more harmful impact on life. Insurers or the judiciary will assess the severity of your illness.
• Duration of exposure
  • Long-term exposure to contaminated water may strengthen your lawsuit. However, shorter-term exposure, with strong evidence, can also be considered.
• Legal strategy and advocacy
  • It can help to have someone negotiate on your behalf. No lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome, but we can evaluate your legal options.

Eligibility for Filing a Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawsuit

Who Is Eligible to File a Lawsuit?

• Military Personnel and Veterans
  • Military residents stationed on or near Fort Dix during contamination who consumed the contaminated water.
• Civilian Employees and Contractors
  • Others who were dependent on Fort Dix or nearby water sources.
• Spouses or Dependents
  • Family members of military personnel stationed at Fort Dix may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the water at Fort Dix safe to drink?

Concerns exist regarding Fort Dix’s drinking water. Many veterans and their families have been exposed to it for years, and they are still dealing with related conditions. Recent Environmental Working Group (EWG) data shows several chemicals above recommended health levels.

The Annual Water Consumer Confidence Report for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst says the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) identified various potential contamination sources within the base’s Source Water Assessment areas (e.g., closed solid-waste landfill, septic tanks, and certain industrial and urban land uses). However, all five Fort Dix water sources (four groundwater wells and one surface water source) were deemed in full compliance with primary water quality standards during 2022.

Who can file a Fort Dix water contamination claim?

Anyone who worked or lived on or around the base and developed a health condition may be entitled to compensation. An attorney can help to confirm this for your situation.

What evidence do I need to start a claim?

A medical diagnosis and proof of your exposure to the contaminated water. You also have to show the time duration you spent on or near Fort Dix.

How do I begin the legal process?

Contact a water contamination lawyer. They will assess your case and review your relevant legal options.

Contact a Fort Dix Water Contamination Lawyer Today

Note: Our firm evaluates potential claims. We may also refer cases to other law firms when appropriate. Contact us to discuss your legal options.

If you or a loved one were exposed to contamination at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (also known as Fort Dix), you may have the right to pursue a claim. Our legal team will evaluate your situation and guide you throughout the entire process. We work on a contingency basis, so you owe nothing unless we obtain compensation on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation and to learn how we can assist you.