Frequently Asked Questions About Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
What exactly happened with the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
For decades, officials were aware of Camp Lejeune water contamination but never addressed the problem. From 1953 to 1987, service members, who lived, worked, or spent time on the base, cooked with, bathed in, and drank the contaminated water, which led many to suffer lifelong health complications or worse.
This contamination was due to the mismanaged runoff of multiple plants, storage tanks, and even a nearby dry cleaner. The affected water supply wells were not closed by the government until 1985. Until recently, disability claims for the consequences of this water contamination had been denied.
What toxins were in the water at Camp Lejeune?
Trichloroethylene (TCE), Perchloroethylene (PCE), Benzene, and Vinyl Chloride were all detected in the Camp Lejeune water supply. Multiple federal agencies identified all of these chemicals as cancer-causing or otherwise deadly.
What are the neurobehavioral effects of Camp Lejeune water contamination?
The term “neurobehavioral effects” refers to conditions related to the relationship between the action of the nervous system and behaviors.
Symptoms of neurobehavioral effects include headaches, lack of coordination, sensory disturbances, confusion, depression, tension, trouble concentrating, alterations in neurobehavioral testing that indicate deficits in attention, reaction time, visuomotor coordination, motor function, digit symbol, and contrast sensitivity. It also includes some learning or behavioral disorders.
How do I file a claim for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?
The CLJA requires plaintiffs to submit an administrative claim to the Navy Department before filing their case in court. These administrative claims will set forth certain key facts, including dates of residence or employment at Camp Lejeune, details about use/exposure to the toxic water during that time, the date of diagnosis with disease or health condition, medical treatment and outcome, and the impact on the claimant’s life including economic and mental effects. In addition to these facts, the administrative claim will also include a financial compensation demand.
If you or a loved one have suffered due to exposure to Camp Lejeune water contamination, speak with the experts at Morgan & Morgan for more information regarding your claim. Our fee is free until we win your case. We understand the hardships caused by others’ negligence, and that’s why we tirelessly fight “For the People.” Reach out today for a chance at taking your first steps toward recovery.
Can I still file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit?
Yes, you can. The CLJA allows wrongful death or survival claims to be brought on behalf of former residents or employees of Camp Lejeune who have already passed away as a result of disease they developed from the contaminated water. Wrongful death claims under the CLJA must be brought by the personal representative (“PR”) of the decedent’s estate.
Is there a deadline to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit?
Unfortunately, there is a deadline. The CLJA creates a limited two-year window to bring civil lawsuits against the government for injuries related to Camp Lejeune's toxic water. All CLJA cases must be initiated by filing an administrative claim with the Navy JAG within two years of the enactment of the new law. The act was signed into law by President Biden on August 10, 2022, meaning that the deadline to bring your civil lawsuit would be August 10, 2024. The law was modified before its enactment so that victims cannot bring a claim if their injury is discovered after that date.
Can I file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit if I already filed a Veterans Benefits claim?
Yes, you can. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows for new claims that are separate from any previous disability claim. Veterans who were previously awarded VA benefits for a health condition related to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune are still eligible to bring civil lawsuits for those injuries and get additional compensation for pain and suffering.
How much is expected to be paid out for the Camp Lejeune settlement?
Experts estimate approximately $6 billion will be paid out to victims and their families for the Camp Lejeune toxic water lawsuits. This total could raise depending on how many victims come forward.
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Veterans shouldn’t needlessly suffer for their service to their country. Have a shot at getting the fair compensation you deserve to move on with your life. Contact Morgan & Morgan today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation to see if you qualify for a case.