PFAS have been used in consumer products for decades. Unfortunately, recent studies have shown these synthetic, long-lasting chemicals can have substantial consequences for humans exposed to them, including risks of cancer. Here in the Las Vegas area, these toxic chemicals have been found in groundwater, which means many individuals and families have likely been exposed to contaminated water.
But PFAS exposure does not end there; people have also been exposed to high levels through working with firefighting foam and other substances containing these chemicals. If you have been diagnosed with cancer after being exposed to PFAS, a Las Vegas PFAs mass tort lawyer can help. Contact a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer from H&P Law to join the mass tort.
PFAs and Their Link to Cancer and Other Medical Issues
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, have been widely used in consumer products for decades due to their ability to resist grease, water, stains, and non-stick properties. Over time, however, these chemicals do not break down and have begun to accumulate in soils, water sources, and the living tissue of both animals and humans. PFAS are categorized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) as persistent, bio accumulative, and toxic substances.
Drinking water contaminated with PFAS is linked to severe medical issues, including increased risk for cardiovascular damage, loss of thyroid function, reproductive issues, low birth weight, disruptions to the endocrine system, weight gain, and cholesterol. It also is shown to elevate the risk of cancer. Some cancers that have been linked to Las Vegas PFAS litigation include:
- Testicular cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Liver cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Colon/Rectal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
- Neuroendocrine tumors
Firefighting Foam Exposure Litigation
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a commonly used firefighting foam used to prevent or extinguish fires caused by jet fuel on military bases and airports. Due to the presence of PFAS chemicals in the foam, there is a high risk of exposure for airport employees, first responders, firefighters, members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and the Nevada National Guard. AFFF is made by the 3M manufacturing company, and lawsuits are being filed stating that appropriate warning was not provided regarding the risks and the need for personal protective gear when handling this product.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer after working with firefighting foam, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact a PFAs mass tort lawyer in Las Vegas for help with your claim against the 3M company and affiliated entities that manufacture and sell these toxic chemicals. If you have yet to be diagnosed but have worked closely with AFFF in the past, be sure to let your primary doctor know you might be at risk.
Firefighting foam is also thought of as one significant source of PFAS that has contaminated groundwater nationwide. Until recently, the EPA and the Pentagon downplayed the growing toxic threat of PFAS, continuing to use the chemicals at over 410 military facilities, where 61% out of the tested groundwater wells contained levels far over the EPA’s safety threshold. Many Las Vegas individuals and families are now choosing to file a PFAS water contamination lawsuit to hold those accountable for the harm it has caused.
Las Vegas PFAS Contaminated Water Cancer Lawsuits
Within Nevada, PFAS have been found contaminating drinking water in places including Creech Air Force Base in Clark County, Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, and Reno Tahoe International Airport. If you or someone you love developed kidney, liver, testicular, or pancreatic cancer after being exposed to water contaminated with PFAS, you may be eligible for a settlement.
The first major PFAS trial happened in 1999 against the DuPont Chemical Company for contaminating groundwater in West Virginia due to the reckless use and disposal of their chemicals. Ever since, litigation over PFAS contamination has grown, affecting people nationwide. If you experienced a significant health issue due to drinking contaminated water, contact the office of H&P Law and get help from a dedicated Las Vegas PFAs mass tort attorney.
Understanding Mass Tort Law
A tort is an action or omission that causes injury to another person and can be prosecuted in court for liability. A mass tort involves multiple plaintiffs who have all been injured or harmed by a shared tort. Mass tort cases are commonly filed against businesses and product manufacturers whose products are faulty or defective, causing harm to consumers.
A mass tort case enables victims to work together, combining their stories and experiences as well as legal support to have the most effective prosecution possible. A mass tort case must be approved by a court to proceed based on the number of plaintiffs, the consistency of the injuries, fairness to all parties, public interest, and other factors. Once the court has made its decision, it may authorize a mass tort action and issue a notice inviting other potential victims to participate in the legal action.
Mass tort cases involve multiple plaintiffs but maintain individual claims that determine case-by-case compensation. Because these cases often involve complex legal issues, extensive discovery phases, and high-stakes negotiations, it is important to start the process as soon as you can. Plaintiffs typically have a statute of limitations of two years to file their claim under Chapter 11 of the Nevada Revised Statute, but other factors can weigh in depending on the medical diagnosis timing and knowledge of exposure.
Getting Help from a PFAs Mass Tort Attorney in Las Vegas
Mass tort cases are typically filed against massive companies or manufacturers that have a team of experienced legal representatives and extensive financial resources. Working with a PFAs mass tort attorney in Las Vegas will ensure that you have the best chance at countering any challenges that you might face against these powerful opponents. Schedule a free case consultation with H&P Law today to work hard to secure your rightful compensation.
We are committed to fighting for justice for those who have been affected by contaminated water in the Las Vegas area. Learn how you can join the PFAS mass tort case as we work together towards a settlement. Contact our office to set up a free, no-obligation case consultation with a Las Vegas PFAs mass tort lawyer today.
