The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal has shocked the nation. For several decades, the US government covered up toxic water contamination at this highly-populated and well-respected military base. Many people who lived at Camp Lejeune during this time now live with serious, and sometimes-deadly medical conditions as a result of toxic water exposure. For those who are just now learning about the case, however, here are some frequently asked questions about water contamination at Camp Lejeune
How Was the Water Contaminated?
Camp Lejeune’s water was knowingly contaminated for decades. Several dangerous, and toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were present in hazardous amounts within Camp Lejeune’s water sources. Throughout the decades when water contamination was present, military service members, their families, and civilian contractors were all exposed to VOCs daily. Many people developed debilitating life-long conditions, or harsh illnesses, due to this toxic exposure. Additionally, those who were stationed at Marine Corps Air Stations in New River, which was just a few short miles from Camp Lejeune, were affected by similar water contamination issues. Despite knowing about the contamination, the government actively covered up, and failed to address, this hazardous issue for decades.
How Does the Camp Lejeune Justice Act Work?
Those who were stationed at Camp Lejeune before 1987, and before 1953, qualify for settlements under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. That being said, you had to have lived on the property for more than 30 days during this period, and you need official documentation proving so. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was passed under the historic Honoring Our PACT Act, which is dedicated to helping military members who were exposed to toxic chemicals, burn pits, and other on-duty hazards. Thanks to the act being passed in 2022, those exposed to dangerous VOCs in Camp Lejeune’s water supply are now eligible to file suits against the government.
How Can I File a Camp Lejeune Justice Act Claim?
The process of filing a Camp Lejeune Justice Act claim has proven easier than most other similar lawsuits. With the help of an experienced veteran’s attorney by your side, the process becomes that much simpler. You can file a lawsuit now, as long as you have the proper documentation. So far, the majority of those that have filed are receiving settlements from the US government before any trial actually takes place. The sooner you file, the sooner you can receive benefits that can help you reclaim your health and livelihood. For those whose family members were affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, you can do your part now to assist them with seeking a settlement.
How Much of a Settlement Do I Qualify for?
Currently, there is no specific estimate for the average Camp Lejeune Justice Act-associated settlement. That being said, Congress approved $2 billion in settlement funds upon the passing of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. Those who file their suits quickly will have a much easier time reaching a settlement due to these pre-existing funds. If you’ve got further questions about what to expect from this process, you’ll need to talk to a trusted legal professional that’s familiar with the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.
How Do I Know if My Health Condition Qualifies for the Camp Lejeune Justice Act?
There have been several dangerous, and often life-long conditions linked to water contamination at Camp Lejeune. If you or a loved one have been affected by any of the following conditions, you almost certainly qualify for a settlement through the Camp Lejeune Justice Act:
-Esophageal Cancer
-Kidney Cancer
-Liver Cancer
-Stomach Cancer
-Ovarian Cancer
-Bladder Cancer
-Stomach Cancer
-Cervical Cancer
-Breast Cancer
-Adult Leukemia
-Aplastic Anemia
-Multiple Myeloma
-Neurobehavioral Effects
-Renal Toxicity
-Birth Defects and Injuries
-Parkinson’s Disease
-Miscarriages
Depending on the severity of the disease you’ve suffered from, the out-of-pocket medical costs you’ve spent to treat them, and how long you’ve had the disease, your settlement could vary wildly. With the right grit, determination, and legal assistance, however, you’ll soon receive your payout under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. It’s important to remember that you deserve justice and a fair settlement due to the damages the government caused you in the Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal.
Millions Were Affected by Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
While knowing the exact number of people who developed serious, life-long, or even fatal diseases due to water contamination at Camp Lejeune is impossible, there were millions of people living on the base during the toxic-contamination period. Therefore, anyone who lived on the base between 1953 and 1987 should seriously consider the options the Camp Lejeune Justice Act provides to them.
