Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of chemicals that have been widely used for decades in industrial applications and consumer goods. Although these chemicals were instrumental in the development of products such as non-stick cookware, waterproof fabrics, and firefighting foam, they have been linked to several serious health issues

If you have been exposed to PFAS and have suffered health problems as a result, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek damages. Learn how Eric Blank Injury Attorneys can assist you if these chemicals have affected you.

What are PFAS?

PFAS are a class of chemicals that are characterized by a chain of carbon atoms with fluorine atoms attached. These chemicals are highly resistant to heat, water, and oil, which makes them useful in a variety of industrial applications. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), and perfluorononanoic acid are common PFAS compounds (PFNA).

PFAS were first developed in the 1940s and were widely used in consumer products by the 1950s. One of the most famous uses of PFAS was in the production of Teflon, the non-stick coating used in cookware. PFAS were also used in the production of waterproof fabrics, such as Gore-Tex, and in firefighting foam.

PFAS have been used in a variety of industries, including the chemical industry, electronics manufacturing, aerospace, and the military. They have also been used in consumer products such as non-stick cookware, stain-resistant carpets, and water-resistant clothing.

Top Manufacturers of PFAS

• Chemours
• 3M
• DuPont
• BASF

These companies have been at the center of lawsuits related to PFAS contamination.

Concerns Associated with PFAS

One of the primary concerns surrounding PFAS is their persistence in the environment. These chemicals do not break down easily and can remain in the environment for decades, leading to widespread contamination of soil, water, and air. As a result, PFAS can accumulate in the food chain and in human and animal bodies, posing potential health risks.

Studies have linked PFAS to a range of health problems. Individuals who have been exposed to PFAS through contaminated drinking water, contaminated food, or occupational exposure have exhibited these health risks. Additionally, PFAS have been associated with health which can have long-term health consequences.

The health risks associated with PFAS are a growing concern, and efforts are being made to better comprehend the potential effects of these chemicals on human health and the environment. Numerous organizations and government agencies advocate for stricter restrictions on the use of PFAS and increased funding for research into the health risks posed by these chemicals.

Studies on Potential Health Dangers Linked to PFAS

Several studies have been conducted on PFAS, including:

• According to a study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, adult exposure to PFAS is associated with an increased risk of thyroid disease.
• Harvard University researchers discovered a link between exposure to PFAS and decreased vaccine response in children, which may have implications for public health.
• A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that exposure to PFAS was associated with a higher risk of liver damage and dysfunction in adults.
• A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that PFAS exposure was associated with decreased fertility in women.
• Environmental Working Group research found that PFAS contamination in drinking water was widespread across the United States, with over 200 million Americans potentially exposed to health-threatening levels of PFAS.

Health Problems and Injuries Linked to PFAS Exposure

PFAS exposure has been linked to a variety of health issues and injuries, including:

• Renal cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid illness
• Liver damage
• Immune system problems
• Developmental issues in children
• Low birth weight
• Developmental delay in infants

Notable Lawsuits, Verdicts, and Settlements in the United States Involving PFAS

• DuPont and Chemours (2017) - In 2017, DuPont and Chemours agreed to pay $671 million to settle more than 3,500 personal injury lawsuits related to PFAS contamination in West Virginia and Ohio. The plaintiffs alleged that DuPont and Chemours knowingly contaminated local water supplies with PFAS and failed to warn the public about the risks.
• Wolverine World Wide (2018) - In 2018, Wolverine World Wide agreed to pay $69.5 million to settle a class-action lawsuit related to PFAS contamination in Michigan. The plaintiffs alleged that Wolverine World Wide contaminated local water supplies with PFAS from its tannery operations, which caused health problems and reduced property values in the area.
• 3M (2018) - In 2018, 3M agreed to pay $850 million to settle a lawsuit brought by the State of Minnesota related to PFAS contamination. The lawsuit alleged that 3M knowingly contaminated local water supplies with PFAS and failed to warn the public about the risks.
• Air Force (2020) - In 2020, the US Air Force agreed to pay $13 million to settle a lawsuit brought by residents of Oscoda, Michigan, related to PFAS contamination from a nearby Air Force base. The plaintiffs alleged that the Air Force contaminated local water supplies with PFAS from firefighting foam used on the base.
• PFAS Manufacturers (2020) - In 2020, 3M, DuPont, and other PFAS manufacturers agreed to pay $10 billion to settle thousands of PFAS lawsuits across the US. The settlement will provide compensation for individuals and communities affected by PFAS contamination and will fund PFAS cleanup efforts.

These are only a few notable lawsuits, verdicts, and settlements involving PFAS in the United States. As more research is conducted on the health risks associated with PFAS, future lawsuits will probably be filed.

Entities and Corporations Liable for PFAS

Companies and other entities can be sued for a variety of PFAS-related reasons, including the following:

• Contamination of the environment: Companies that use or produce PFAS may be sued for contaminating soil, water, or air with these chemicals, which can harm wildlife and endanger human health.
• Exposure to PFAS: Companies that expose employees or members of the public to PFAS may be sued for injuries or illnesses resulting from exposure to these chemicals.
• Failure to warn: Companies that fail to provide adequate warnings about the risks associated with PFAS may be sued for injuries or illnesses resulting from the use or exposure to these chemicals.
• Product liability: Companies that manufacture or sell products containing PFAS may be sued for defects in the product that cause harm to consumers.

Some of the leading PFAS manufacturers, including Chemours, 3M, DuPont, and BASF, have been sued for their contribution to PFAS contamination and exposure. In addition, government entities such as water utilities and military bases have been sued for their role in contaminating the environment and exposing people to PFAS.

Filing a PFAS Lawsuit: What You Need to Know

Anyone who has been exposed to PFAS and suffered health issues or injuries as a result is eligible to file a lawsuit. This includes individuals exposed to PFAS via contaminated drinking water, occupational exposure, or consumer products. To successfully file a PFAS lawsuit, you must demonstrate that you were exposed to these chemicals and that your exposure caused your health issues or injuries.

If your PFAS lawsuit is successful, you may be able to recover compensation for a range of expenses related to your injuries or health issues. These losses might include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages (in some cases)

Championing Your Cause with Eric Blank Injury Attorneys

At Eric Blank Injury Attorneys, we understand the complexities of PFAS lawsuits. We have extensive experience handling PFAS cases and can provide the legal guidance and support our clients need to pursue a successful lawsuit. In addition to our legal services, we also provide compassionate and supportive representation to them.

If you have been affected by PFAS contamination or exposure and are considering legal action, contact Eric Blank Injury Attorneys today at (702) 222-2115 (702) 222-2115 or visit www.ericblanklaw.com for a free consultation. We can help you understand your legal options and take the necessary steps to protect and advance your rights and interests.