Suing a government entity might be rare, but it isn’t unheard of. This is especially true for victims of negligence, who were injured, suffered long-term consequences, or lost loved ones due to fatal diseases caused by the government. It sounds like a plot out of a movie, but unfortunately, this type of situation is all too real for the victims of Camp Lejeune contaminated water exposure.
If you or someone you know were exposed to deadly, toxic water on the training base Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you may be entitled to benefits. Thanks to a new law, you might also be able to file a civil lawsuit against the federal government and receive the settlement you deserve for your pain and suffering.
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What is the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2021?
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2021 was the first act brought to the House of Representatives in March of 2021, that sought justice for the victims of Camp Lejeune contaminated water exposure.
The groundwater in Camp Lejeune was contaminated with chemicals such as:
- Trichloroethylene (TCE)
- Perchloroethylene (PCE)
- Benzene
- Vinyl chloride
- Other compounds
Though toxic water levels continued to impact the lives of many victims living and working on the base between 1953 and 1987, it wasn’t until 1987 that the water wells were finally shut down.
Those victims exposed to the groundwater suffered unspeakable losses, including deadly diseases such as cancers, infertility issues, miscarriages, and other diseases that have long-term effects on their health.
Sadly, many of these victims were military members, and also included their family members, children, civilian contractors, and even healthcare workers that lived on base.
How Do I File a lawsuit Against the Federal Government?
The Camp Lejeune Act of 2021 was incorporated into a larger bill known as the PACT act, which expanded benefits to veterans who were victims of toxic exposures between the Vietnam wars up until the gulf war and even post-9/11 veterans. It is also included in the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.
Therefore, you can file a lawsuit against the federal government provided:
- You were exposed to the groundwater at the Camp Lejeune base between 1953 and 1987 for more than 30 days
- You did not receive a dishonorable discharge from the military
- You had a disease or are dealing with the effects of disease from contaminated water exposure
- You can prove you were living or working on the base between that time
What Will Settlement Amounts Be?
The PACT act was only signed into effect on August 8, 2022. It’s unknown what the settlement amounts will be, but settlement amounts will also be offset by VA disability. The PACT act also allows civilian employees and family members to file for VA disability, once only reserved for military members, if they were exposed to the toxic water at Camp Lejeune.
VA disability works on a rating scale. This means the VA must find you are 100% disabled to receive compensation of around $3,500 a month for the rest of your life. You might receive less compensation depending on what “rating” you receive. It can be difficult to prove your case and prove your pain and suffering. Therefore, it’s best to get legal help to both file for VA disability benefits and a civil suit for water exposure at Camp Lejeune.
Find the Best Legal Help With Dolman Law Group
Don’t hesitate to file your lawsuit or for compensation. You only have until August 8, 2024, to start your claim and begin seeking damages. Call us today to see how we can help you build a strong case and get you the settlement you deserve.
