Fort Jackson Water Contamination Lawsuit

Studies have detected toxic chemicals in Fort Jackson’s drinking water. Some individuals who lived or worked there have reported serious health conditions. Research is ongoing to assess potential risks.

Investigations found PFAS, RDX, and lead in the water. Lawsuits claim those responsible failed to prevent contamination or warn those at risk. Legal claims have been filed seeking accountability for alleged contamination. If eligible, you may have legal options for seeking compensation. Every individual case is different and will be evaluated as such.

If you believe you were exposed to contaminated water at Fort Jackson, you can explore your legal options with a free consultation. Contact us today for your free consultation.

Note: These are active lawsuits; allegations are still unproven and based on ongoing litigation.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Studies have found PFAS, RDX, and lead in Fort Jackson’s water supply. Health officials continue to evaluate potential risks.
• Some studies suggest these toxic substances may be linked to nerve damage, cancer, and organ harm. Research is ongoing.
• Contamination is mainly a threat to military families, veterans, and civilians who lived on or near base at the time of the contamination.
• Some individuals affected by Fort Jackson’s water contamination may qualify for compensation through legal action. This can include claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Eligibility depends on case-specific factors.

What Happened at Fort Jackson?

Fort Jackson, a U.S. military base, has been the subject of toxic water contamination claims, with lawsuits alleging health impacts.

Water contamination at Fort Jackson has raised public concerns. It has also led to questions about efforts to protect local residents and service members.

History of Water Contamination on the Base

Fort Jackson has been a site of U.S. Army training since 1917. The base’s main mission is to teach new recruits basic soldiering skills. However, the base’s water supply was adversely impacted due to many years of military training and operations.

Fort Jackson’s water contains chemicals such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been studied for potential health effects. These substances persist in the environment for decades. The EPA designated Fort Jackson as a Superfund site. This is because the site has documented contamination that poses risks.

Contamination on the base was due to military activities. These include the following:

• Firefighting at Fort Jackson with AFFF released PFAS compounds into the environment. The groundwater previously became contaminated due to these compounds entering the water. The reason these chemicals also last a long time in the natural environment is because they decay slowly.
• Artillery and explosives training at Fort Jackson released RDX and other contaminants into the soil. These contaminants then seeped into the groundwater.
• Training area activities are a source of chemical runoff into the water.

Many individuals affected by this toxic exposure are seeking legal action for related health problems.

Contaminants Found in Fort Jackson’s Drinking Water

Testing has detected 3 main hazardous substances in Fort Jackson’s drinking water: RDX, lead, and PFAS.

• Health experts continue to assess potential risks. Service members, as well as the residents might have been exposed.
• Having contact with these contaminants over long time periods might be one of the reasons for developing diseases. These contaminents can also cause reproduction and child development problems.
• Once in the body, these toxins may increase the risk of cancer and organ damage.
• In 2022, the Department of Defense found unsafe toxin levels in the water at 116 military sites, including Fort Jackson.
• Fort Jackson has about 32 active contamination sites, called Areas of Concern (AOC) or Solid Waste Management Units (SWMU).

PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”)

• PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.
• The U.S. Army has documented PFAS contamination at Fort Jackson.
• PFAS are man-made chemicals that resist heat, water, and oil. They don’t break down naturally and can remain in the environment indefinitely. Traces of these chemicals often remain in water even after cleanup. AFFF, the military’s firefighting foam used in the past, contained these substances. At Fort Jackson, this is one of the biggest contributors to water pollution.
• Some studies link PFAS exposure to kidney, testicular, and thyroid cancers, but research is still ongoing.
• Some studies suggest PFAS exposure may increase heart risks and raise cholesterol levels.
• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has acknowledged PFAS exposure as a potential concern for service members. It’s currently reviewing how these chemicals may affect veterans’ health.

RDX (military explosive compound)

• RDX stands for Royal Demolition Explosive.
• The drinking water at Fort Jackson contained RDX, a toxic chemical that is commonly found in hand grenades.
• The most common way people near Fort Jackson are exposed to RDX is by drinking water from local wells.
• RDX is a common explosive and is used in many battlefield operations. It is also used in grenades, artillery shells, and demolition charges.
• RDX contamination can affect both groundwater and surface water. It poses potential health risks to those exposed.
• Over eight years, the Army tested water from 195 wells near Fort Jackson, collecting more than 1,000 samples. RDX wasn’t detected in most of them; 164 showed no trace. At 10 sites where RDX exceeded the Health Advisory Level, the Army installed water treatment systems.
• According to the EPA, RDX levels in drinking water shouldn’t exceed 2.0 micrograms per liter under its Health Advisory Level (HAL). The agency also set a Regional Screening Level (RSL) at 0.97 micrograms per liter to help assess potential risks.

Lead Contamination

• Lead contamination in the water supply at Fort Jackson has been confirmed.
• Old military infrastructure may have contributed to lead contamination at Fort Jackson. This may include plumbing, ammunition storage, and training exercises.
• Military training at Fort Jackson may contribute to lead, phosphorus, and other metal runoff. These substances can seep into nearby water sources, increasing the risk of contamination.

Health Risks and Medical Conditions Linked to Contaminated Water

Exposure to PFAS, RDX, and lead-based chemicals can cause severe medical issues. Drinking contaminated water for a long perioid of time can cause severe health damage.

Cancers and Severe Illnesses

• The types of contaminants found at Fort Jackson have been linked to multiple types of cancer.
• PFAS exposure has been linked to various cancers, including kidney, testicular, and thyroid cancer, breast cancer. Ongoing testing is underway for these cancers,
• There are no studies of cancer in people exposed to RDX. Based on studies of mice, the United States Environmental Protection Agency considers RDX as having suggested evidence of carcinogenic potential.

Potential Cancer Risks Linked to Fort Jackson Water Contamination

Exposure to these toxic substances found in Fort Jackson’s drinking water has been associated with several types of cancer, including:

• Kidney cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

If you or a loved one was exposed to contaminated water and later diagnosed with a related illness, you may have legal options. Contact us today for a free case evaluation!

Other Health Effects

Drinking polluted water at Fort Jackson may cause many health issues beyond just cancer. These issues can interfere with people’s daily activities.

More Risks Associated with PFAS, RDX, and Lead Contamination

• Reproductive & Pregnancy Risks – Toxic exposure may increase the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and fertility problems.
• Heart Health Concerns – PFAS has been linked to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and a greater risk of heart disease.
• Immune System Impact – PFAS exposure can weaken the immune system, making vaccines and treatments less effective.
• Neurological Effects – RDX exposure may cause dizziness, memory problems, muscle twitching, and seizures.
• Lead Poisoning Risks – Lead contamination has been associated with brain damage, kidney disease, and heart problems.

Who Qualifies for the Fort Jackson Water Contamination Lawsuit?

If you lived or worked at Fort Jackson during the contamination period, you may be eligible to file a legal claim. A diagnosed illness linked to toxic exposure is required.

Eligibility Criteria

• Veterans, military families, and civilians who were at or near Fort Jackson during the period of water contamination may be eligible to file a claim.
• Claimants must have a documented medical diagnosis. The condition must be linked to the contaminants found in the water.

Proof of Exposure & Documentation

• Military records showing time at Fort Jackson may include:
• Deployment orders
• Duty station logs
• Discharge paperwork
• Medical records linking illness to toxic exposure. These can include diagnosis, treatment history, doctor’s opinions etc

Fort Jackson Water Contamination Settlements – How Much Can You Get?

Compensation in Fort Jackson water contamination claims varies based on individual case factors. The total compensation amount also depends on several factors. The cost of treatment, the severity of a person’s illness, and the legal processes all contribute to the amount of money received. The length of exposure can also play a role.

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

Factors That May Influence Compensation

Medical Diagnosis and Prognosis

The type and severity of the illness matter. Conditions that require long-term treatment or result in disability may impact compensation. Toxic exposure cases often rely on documented medical diagnoses.

Exposure History and Duration

How long someone lived or worked at or near Fort Jackson and their level of exposure could be important. Claimants may need to provide proof of residency or military service to support their case.

Medical and Scientific Evidence

To qualify, claimants need medical records, test results, or expert evaluations linking their condition to exposure. This documentation helps establish a strong case. Legal professionals can help gather and present this evidence.

Laws and Court Cases

Compensation policies may change based on new laws and court rulings.

Recoverable Damages

Courts assess medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial losses. Non-financial damages, such as pain and suffering, may also be considered. Each case is evaluated based on its unique details and applicable laws.

How to File a Fort Jackson Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing a lawsuit involves gathering the right evidence and taking the right legal steps. If you’ve been affected by Fort Jackson’s water contamination, here’s how to get started.

Steps to Take for Filing a Claim

• Talk to a Lawyer – A legal expert can review your case and explain your options.
• Collect Important Documents – Military service records, medical reports, and proof of exposure can strengthen the claim.
• Start the Legal Process – A lawyer will determine the appropriate legal steps based on case details and applicable laws.

Why Work With a Water Contamination Lawyer?

A water contamination lawyer can help prove your claim and handle legal filings. They can also pursue compensation for qualified exposure-related illnesses. A lawyer also help negotiate settlements and gather expert opinions. Additionally, they work to meet all legal deadlines.

How Legal Representation Can Support Your Claim

• Case Evaluation and Legal Guidance – Attorneys assess eligibility, legal options, and applicable claims under relevant laws.
• Evidentiary Support and Causation Analysis – Legal counsel helps gather medical records, military service documentation, and expert opinions to establish a connection between exposure and illness.
• Procedural Compliance and Advocacy – Attorneys ensure adherence to applicable legal deadlines, filing requirements, and jurisdictional rules.

No Upfront Fees – Representation on a Contingency Basis

• Fee Structure – Many lawyers operate on a contingency basis. Their clients are only charged for their legal services after they win compensation.
• Access to Legal Services – Claimants can pursue claims without paying legal fees in advance.

Contingency Fee Disclaimer: Clients may be responsible for court costs. In some cases, they may also be responsible for opposing parties’ fees if a recovery is not obtained.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions About the Fort Jackson Water Contamination Lawsuit

These are some common questions about the Fort Jackson water contamination lawsuit.

Was the water contaminated at Fort Jackson?

Yes, the water at Fort Jackson has tested positive for contaminants.

Which contaminants did research teams detect in Fort Jackson water supplies?

The water supply at Fort Jackson contains harmful substances like PFAS, RDX and lead.

Is Fort Jackson a designated Superfund site?

Yes, Fort Jackson is a designated Superfund site.

How do I know if I qualify for compensation?

If you lived, worked, or were stationed at or near Fort Jackson and have a diagnosed illness linked to the contaminants, you may qualify. Consult a lawyer to learn more.

Get a Free Case Review From a Fort Jackson 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 contaminated water at Fort Jackson and have a diagnosed illness linked to toxic exposure, you may have legal options. Schedule a free consultation today.

Call now or fill out the form to get started.