Are you a Camp Lejeune Contamination Survivor Seeking Justice?

 Posted on December 14, 2022 in Personal Injury

It is hard to believe but veterans and their families are still trying to obtain redress for the serious health injuries caused by Camp Lejeune’s toxic water more than three decades ago. Well, you now have the chance to ask the federal government for restitution under the new legislation. A personal injury lawyer can assist you in navigating governmental red tape and legal obstacles to help you get the compensation you are entitled to even if you currently receive some form of Veterans Administration benefits.

More Benefits May be Available to You

Back in 2012, veterans with qualifying medical problems were granted limited benefits. Camp Lejeune veterans and employees could only receive specific benefits, such as healthcare from facilities affiliated with the VA and they were unable to file a lawsuit against the U.S. government. Adding insult to injury, more than a third of veterans who applied for benefits had their disability claims delayed or denied by the VA. Thousands of claims were also processed late or incorrectly.

You May Be Able to File a Lawsuit

Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, if your claim has been previously denied, you can file a new claim. Even if you are receiving medical benefits or other compensation from the VA as a result of the Camp Lejeune water contamination, you are still eligible to file a lawsuit for additional compensation. It is estimated that as many as one million people were exposed to the toxic water at the base. You can file a claim for up to two years. Here are the two main questions you need to ask yourself to see if you might have a viable claim:

• Did you or a loved one live or work at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days from August 1, 1953, through December 31, 1987?

• Were you or your loved one diagnosed with a health condition related to the contaminated water?

Camp Lejeune Compensatory Damages

There is a link between military duty and exposure to dangerous substances at Camp Lejeune and the later onset of diseases. Cancers, blood disorders, reproductive problems, and other ailments are only a few of the health issues that people have been dealing with for years. While punitive damages are not permitted under the new law, compensatory damages are allowed for your pain and suffering, any lost wages, medical expenses, and diminished enjoyment of life.

Contact a Joliet Camp Lejeune Injury Attorney

You may be entitled to sizable compensation if Camp Lejeune's contaminated water has caused you to experience life-altering health conditions. For a free consultation with a knowledgeable Cook County Camp Lejeune lawyer, call 708-226-9000. At Schwartz Injury Law we are committed to assisting Camp Lejeune veterans and holding those accountable for their harm.

Sources:

https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/camp-lejeune-water-contamination/

https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3967/text#toc-HB9A39CAFD0FC47FFAC9A3EB939C72057