How Can Camp Lejeune Marines Get Toxic Water Compensation?

Question from Alan, How Can Camp Lejeune Marines Get Toxic Water Compensation?

Answer from AI:

If you are a Marine who spent more than two years at Camp Lejeune and believe you were poisoned by contaminated water, there are steps you can take to seek compensation. It’s important to understand the background of the issue and the legal avenues available for seeking redress.

Understanding the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Issue

From the 1950s through the 1980s, the water supply at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina was contaminated with hazardous chemicals. It is estimated that as many as one million military personnel and their family members were exposed to the toxic water. The contaminants included substances such as trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride, which are associated with various health issues, including cancer.

Legal Options for Camp Lejeune Marines

• VA Benefits: Veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days from August 1953 through December 1987 may be eligible for health benefits and compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA has recognized certain diseases as presumptively associated with exposure to the contaminated water.
• Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022: As part of the Honoring Our PACT Act, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows affected individuals to file claims directly against the federal government for harm caused by the water contamination. This is a significant change, as it waives the government’s usual immunity from such lawsuits.
• Legal Representation: It may be beneficial to seek the assistance of an attorney who specializes in environmental law or military-related claims. An experienced lawyer can help navigate the complex legal process, gather necessary evidence, and represent your interests in court or settlement negotiations.

Steps to Take for Compensation

1. Document Your Presence: Gather evidence that you were stationed at Camp Lejeune during the affected period. This can include military orders, base housing records, and any other relevant documentation.
2. Medical Records: Compile your medical records that show diagnoses and treatments for conditions related to the toxic water exposure.
3. File a VA Claim: If you haven’t already, file a claim with the VA for health benefits and compensation. You can do this online, by mail, or with the assistance of a VA-accredited representative.
4. Consider Legal Action: If you are eligible under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, consider filing a lawsuit. An attorney can advise you on the strength of your case and the likelihood of success.
5. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with any changes in legislation or VA policies that might affect your eligibility for compensation.

When to Seek Legal Advice

While some individuals may successfully navigate the VA claims process on their own, the legal complexities surrounding the Camp Lejeune water contamination may necessitate professional legal advice. If you are considering filing a lawsuit under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, consulting with an attorney is strongly recommended. An attorney can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your case and help ensure that you meet all legal requirements and deadlines.

Additional Resources

For more information on the health benefits and compensation available to veterans affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, visit the VA’s Camp Lejeune webpage. For those considering legal action, the American Bar Association provides resources for finding a qualified attorney.

Remember, while this information can guide you in seeking compensation, it is not a substitute for personalized legal advice. Each case is unique, and the success of a claim or lawsuit can depend on a variety of factors.