Who Can File a PFAS Cancer Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Individuals exposed to PFAS-contaminated water who develop a related cancer may qualify to file a lawsuit if they prove exposure and harm.

Military personnel, firefighters, residents, and workers may have been exposed to PFAS. Some municipalities and water utilities have taken legal action over cleanup expenses. Plaintiffs must prove exposure and a qualifying diagnosis.

Concerned about PFAS exposure? Our legal team can explain your options. Contact us to discuss your situation.

Disclaimer: For informational use only. Our firm was not part of the lawsuits cited. Contact us to review your PFAS case.

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Understanding PFAS Water Contamination Lawsuits

Drinking water in many communities contains PFAS, sparking public health concerns. Lawsuits for PFAS-related cancer seek compensation for medical costs and other damages.

What Are PFAS, and Why Are They Dangerous?

For decades, PFAS have been used in cookware, waterproof gear, food wrappers, and firefighting foam. Their heat, water, and stain resistance makes them common in many products.

But here’s the issue: PFAS are not easily broken down in nature or the human body. Once they enter the environment, they can persist for thousands of years. These chemicals infiltrate the soil, travel through water, and join the air. People unknowingly drink, eat, or breathe them in.

Research suggests that exposure to PFAS could impact the immune system, damage organs, and alter hormones. PFAS health risks depend on exposure levels and duration.

Studies cited by agencies like the EPA have investigated potential links between PFAS exposure and increased risks of certain cancers, thyroid disease, and developmental concerns in children.

How PFAS Contaminate Water Supplies

PFAS can enter the water supply in various ways. Once these chemicals contaminate drinking water, they are challenging to eliminate.

Some familiar sources of PFAS water contamination:

• Factories – Chemical and garment plants can release PFAS waste into the air and water.
• Military Bases – Firefighting foam used in training soaks into the ground, contaminating nearby wells.
• Landfills – When PFAS products break down, the chemicals leach into the soil and water.

How PFAS Spreads in Drinking Water

Once PFAS enter the environment, some ways they travel are through:

• Groundwater – PFAS can travel into wells and underground water sources via rainwater.
• Public Water Systems – Contaminated bodies such as rivers and lakes may supply a city’s drinking water for example.
• Private Wells – People living close to factories, airports, or military installations could have higher PFAS exposure.

The EPA has found PFAS in over 2,800 U.S. water systems. Many communities now face expensive cleanup efforts to remove these chemicals.

PFAS-Related Health Risks and Cancer Links

Scientists have studied PFAS exposure for years. Research suggests these chemicals may remain in the body for long periods, potentially accumulating in blood, organs, and tissues. The effects of exposure can change based on how long it lasts, its concentration, and a person’s health.

Some research has explored possible associations between PFAS exposure and cancers, such as:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer

The C8 Science Panel studied PFAS exposure in West Virginia and found probable associations with certain cancers.

Other Health Problems from PFAS

Some studies have examined potential associations between PFAS exposure and:

• Liver and kidney damage

These organs struggle to filter PFAS from the body.

• Weakened immune system

Exposure can reduce the body’s ability to fight infections.

• Reproductive problems

PFAS are linked to low birth weight, fertility issues, and congenital disabilities.

• Thyroid disease

These chemicals disrupt hormones, affecting metabolism and energy levels.

Pregnant women and young children are also especially vulnerable.

Some jurisdictions have moved to ban PFAS, but the chemicals remain in drinking water nationwide.

Who May Be Able to File a PFAS Cancer Water Contamination Lawsuit

Individuals who can demonstrate exposure and harm may be eligible to take legal action. For example, workers, first responders, and military personnel may have been exposed to PFAS in drinking water.

Lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers aim to hold responsible parties accountable for the costs associated with PFAS contamination.

Individuals Who May Qualify

People who drank PFAS-contaminated water may have been exposed to harmful chemicals. If they develop a related health condition, they may have legal options.

Residents in Affected Areas

Many PFAS lawsuits involve people who unknowingly consumed contaminated drinking water. This includes:

• Homeowners with private wells near PFAS pollution sources. These may include industrial plants, military bases, or airports.
• Residents served by public water systems that have detected PFAS above safe levels.
• People who lived in high-exposure areas for years and later developed a PFAS-related illness.

People who suspect they were exposed can check local water quality reports and speak with a lawyer to explore their legal rights.

Workers Exposed to PFAS

Workers may also face PFAS exposure from drinking contaminated water on the job. The Pease Tradeport case shows that workers can be exposed to PFAS in drinking water. Industries like waste management, aviation, and manufacturing could also put workers in environments with high PFAS levels.

Military Personnel and Veterans

The U.S. military used firefighting foam containing PFAS (AFFF) for decades. Many bases have documented water contamination, exposing service members to these chemicals.

Veterans and active-duty personnel may be eligible for compensation if they:

• Served at a base with confirmed PFAS contamination.
• Developed health issues linked to PFAS exposure, such as cancer or thyroid disease.
• Regularly worked with firefighting foam in training or emergency response.

Here are some military bases where attorneys are looking into PFAS exposure claims:

• Fort Ord
• Camp Pendleton
• Cherry Point
• Fort Bragg
• Fort Dix

Firefighters and First Responders

Many firefighters face PFAS risk, especially through AFFF foam, which contains PFAS and has been used for decades. Exposure may happen from skin contact, inhalation, contaminated gear, or drinking water at stations and training sites. Studies have suggested health risks linked to prolonged exposure.

Municipalities and Water Providers

Entire cities, towns, and water districts have taken legal action against PFAS manufacturers. Many must also pay for the removal of PFAS from public drinking water.

Legal Requirements for Filing a PFAS Lawsuit

To pursue a lawsuit, individuals must provide evidence of PFAS exposure, resulting harm, and a diagnosed health condition linked to exposure. It is not just exposure; you need to connect the dots between PFAS in your water, your health problems, and the parties responsible.

Proving PFAS Exposure and Harm to Individuals

Successful legal claims typically require medical records and proof of PFAS exposure. PFAS exposure is linked to health risks, but unless you connect it to your illness, you likely don’t have a case.

• Where was the contamination? Maybe it was in your drinking water, workplace, or a military base where you served. You will need to prove you were there while the contamination happened.
• How were you exposed? Water tests, work records, or public contamination reports can help prove it.
• What harm did it cause? A diagnosis of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, or another PFAS-linked illness is key.
• Do you have a confirmed diagnosis? Medical evidence and expert opinions may help connect PFAS exposure and specific health conditions.

Substantial evidence can improve the chances of a successful lawsuit. An attorney can assess what documentation may support your case.

Potential Compensation for Individuals in PFAS Water Contamination Lawsuits

People who qualify can ask for compensation for damages. This will vary based on the details of their case.

Individuals may seek compensation based on case-specific factors.

• Medical expenses – Treatments, hospital stays, medications, and ongoing care costs.
• Lost wages – Compensation for income lost due to illness or an inability to work.
• Pain and suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Wrongful death damages – Compensation for families who have lost a loved one due to PFAS-related health conditions.

Compensation may depend on factors such as the extent of exposure, the severity of the illness, and the strength of the supporting evidence. An attorney can assess individual circumstances and determine potential legal options.

How to File a PFAS Cancer Water Contamination Lawsuit

If you believe PFAS-contaminated water exposure has impacted your health, learning about your legal options can help you decide your next steps.

First, check if your area, workplace, etc, has been contaminated with PFAS. Then, gather medical records and proof of exposure. A lawyer can help you determine whether you qualify.

Legal deadlines for filing claims may vary by state. Consulting an attorney can help determine whether a claim falls within the applicable timeframe.

Get Legal Help for Your PFAS Lawsuit

At Winder Law Firm, we work on a contingency basis, meaning clients do not pay attorney fees unless compensation is recovered. However, depending on the case, clients may still be responsible for court costs and other case-related expenses.

If you or a loved one were exposed to PFAS-contaminated water, our legal team can determine if you qualify to file a claim. We’re here to evaluate your case, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. We work on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. Clients may still be responsible for certain expenses.

To get started, contact us today for a free case evaluation.