Legal Rights and Choices for Those Affected by Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

The Camp Lejeune water contamination stands as one of the most significant cases of environmental pollution in the history of the U.S. military. This contamination arose from decades of improper waste disposal practices at the Marine Corps Base in North Carolina, resulting in the contamination of drinking water with highly toxic substances like benzene, vinyl chloride, and trichloroethylene.

The repercussions of this contamination exposed thousands of service members, their families, and civilian employees to these hazardous chemicals, resulting in severe health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and various chronic illnesses.

After enduring years of hardship, victims of the Camp Lejeune water contamination are now pursuing legal remedies for their losses. These legal avenues encompass filing claims against the government, pursuing legal actions against those responsible, or seeking compensation through a special fund established by Congress.

This blog aims to furnish informative and actionable guidance for individuals affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, assisting them in navigating the intricate legal landscape and attaining the justice they rightfully deserve.

Claims for Personal Injuries

The most prevalent type of claims pursued by those affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination are personal injury claims. These claims are initiated to seek compensation for various losses resulting from contamination, encompassing medical costs, income loss, diminished earning capacity, and emotional distress.

Yet, for a successful personal injury claim, it is imperative to furnish compelling evidence linking your illness to exposure to Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water. An adept personal injury attorney can assist in gathering evidence, thereby bolstering your prospects of prevailing in your case.

Claims for Wrongful Death

Families who have lost loved ones due to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune have the option to file wrongful death claims. To initiate such a claim, the person filing the lawsuit must have a specific relationship with the deceased.

Furthermore, there is a set timeframe within which the claim must be submitted following the individual’s passing. An adept wrongful death attorney from Bell Legal Group can guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the complete and equitable compensation you are entitled to.

Benefits for Disabilities

Another avenue available is submitting a claim for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). If you experienced exposure to the contaminated water during your active duty, the VA may consider approving a disability claim linked to the contamination. However, it is imperative to supply compelling medical evidence that establishes the connection between your illness and the contaminated water within the designated timeframe.

Lawsuit as a Class Action

If you are a civilian who suffered exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, you could potentially qualify for compensation by participating in a class action lawsuit.

In a class action lawsuit, a collective of individuals, represented by a single attorney, collaborates to bring a legal case against a defendant. By becoming a part of such a lawsuit, you have the opportunity to receive a share of any awarded compensation if the lawsuit proves successful.

Assisting Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Victims: Our Commitment

In the event that you or a family member has been affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, it is crucial to explore legal avenues for compensation. Various types of claims are available, including personal injury claims, wrongful death claims, VA disability benefits claims, and participation in class action lawsuits.

With the support of an experienced personal injury attorney from Bell Legal Group, you can skillfully navigate the legal process to secure the rightful compensation you are entitled to. It’s essential to keep in mind that you possess legal choices, and seeking legal counsel can safeguard your rights and well-being.

For assistance with your Camp Lejeune personal injury case, don’t hesitate to reach out to the proficient team at Bell Legal Group. You can contact us at (843) 438-7480 or complete our convenient online contact form.

Dept. of Justice Outlines Option to Settle Camp Lejeune Lawsuits More Quickly

About Lawsuits, Irvin Jackson, September 12, 2023

The U.S. government has filed a notice to inform judges presiding over all Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits of a new “Elective Option”, detailing the voluntary process that will allow individuals to quickly settle claims involving certain injuries linked to toxic chemicals that contaminated water at the North Carolina military base. The Department of Justice and U.S. Navy first announced the elective Camp Lejeune settlement option on September 7, offering up to $550,000 to veterans and their families if they suffered specific medical conditions, including kidney cancer, liver cancer, non-Hodgkins lymphoma, leukemias, bladder cancer, multiple myeloma, Parkinson’s disease, kidney disease and systemic sclerosis.

Allyson Rupp (she/her) | Dewey Square Group

Senior Associate

1801 K Street, NW Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20006

Direct: 240-232-2184

Allyson.Rupp@deweysquare.com