The Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Crisis: What You Need to Know in 2023

 Posted on January 16, 2023 in Personal Injury

For many years, people living or working at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina were unknowingly exposed to contaminated water. The extent of this contamination is still being uncovered, but it is important that those affected are aware of the situation and know what to do if they have suffered any negative health effects. Today, we will discuss the major causes of the water contamination, who may be affected by it, and how to reach out for help if you or a family member feel like you have experienced any ill effects as a result of it.

The Causes of Contamination

For more than 30 years, toxic chemicals were released into the groundwater at Camp Lejeune. These contaminants included solvents such as trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, vinyl chloride, and other hazardous substances associated with dry-cleaning operations and industrial activities. This contamination caused serious health risks for those on base or in the surrounding area who drank or used the contaminated water.

Who May Be Affected?

The Marine Corps estimates that nearly one million Marines and their families were present at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 when the contamination occurred. Tens of thousands of service members from other branches of the armed forces, as well as civilian contractors, also lived and worked in and around Camp Lejeune during the same period. This means that there are many thousands of potential people who could potentially suffer from health problems due to exposure to these toxins in the water supply.

Common illnesses reported include:

• Cancer, including leukemia and kidney cancer
• Parkinson’s disease
• Diabetes
• Infertility issues
• Birth defects
• Miscarriages

What Should I Do If I Think I Was Affected by Contaminated Water?

If you believe you or your family member has been adversely affected by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, then it is important that you seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney immediately. There may be financial assistance available through personal injury claim, which can provide affected individuals with compensation for any and all losses related to their illnesses due to exposure to these toxic chemicals. An experienced attorney can help guide you through this process and ensure that you get all of the benefits you deserve for your suffering.

Contact a Camp Lejeune Contamination Injury Lawyer

The Camp Lejeune water contamination crisis is an ongoing issue with long-term consequences for those affected by it. It is essential that former servicemembers, contractors, and their families understand what happened so they are able to access information regarding potential medical issues related to exposure to these toxins in the water supply.

To learn more about your options for seeking compensation, contact a skilled Camp Lejeune contamination injury attorney at Schwartz Injury Law. Call 708-226-9000 for a free consultation and case review with a member of our team today.

Sources:

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

https://www.cnn.com/2022/12/01/us/camp-lejeune-water-victims-claims/index.html