Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm | Fighting for Justice for Victims of Toxic Chemical Exposure
AFFF Foam Linked to Cancer and Serious Health Conditions
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam used widely by military personnel, airport firefighting crews, and various industries to control petroleum-based fires. While AFFF has been effective in fire suppression, its key chemical components, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have been linked to significant health risks, including cancer and organ damage. PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are incredibly resistant to breakdown, persisting in the environment and human body long after exposure. Unfortunately, many who were regularly exposed to AFFF, such as firefighters and military personnel, are now facing severe health consequences due to these toxic substances.
At Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm, we stand with the individuals and families harmed by AFFF exposure, fighting to hold manufacturers accountable for endangering lives. Our firm is committed to representing victims in AFFF lawsuits, helping them seek justice and the compensation they deserve.
The Dangers of AFFF Foam and PFAS Exposure
AFFF was developed for use in high-risk firefighting situations, especially for flammable liquid fires that water cannot extinguish effectively. The problem lies with the PFAS chemicals within AFFF, particularly perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These chemicals do not break down easily, leading to widespread contamination of water sources, soil, and food supplies.
Many individuals, particularly those in firefighting and military careers, have been unknowingly exposed to AFFF over long periods. Exposure to these toxic PFAS chemicals has been linked to various health conditions, including:
- Cancer: Kidney cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and testicular cancer are common among AFFF-exposed individuals.
- Liver Damage: PFAS can cause damage to liver cells, leading to chronic liver diseases.
- Immune System Disorders: AFFF exposure has been associated with weakened immune systems and increased vulnerability to infections.
- Thyroid Disorders: PFAS disrupt endocrine functions, leading to thyroid imbalances and related health issues.
- Reproductive Health Issues: PFAS exposure can harm fertility and has been associated with pregnancy complications.
The chemicals in AFFF can accumulate in the body, causing damage over time, and leading to chronic health issues that disrupt victims’ lives and livelihoods. If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and subsequently developed health complications, Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm is here to help you explore your legal options.
Legal Grounds for Filing an AFFF Mass Tort Claim
Manufacturers of AFFF had a duty to ensure that their products were safe for the individuals who relied on them to perform essential, often life-saving tasks. Despite growing evidence of the health risks associated with PFAS chemicals, manufacturers continued to sell and distribute AFFF, failing to inform users of the long-term dangers. This failure to act responsibly and provide adequate warnings has left thousands of people at risk of life-threatening illnesses.
A mass tort claim against AFFF manufacturers may involve the following legal arguments:
- Product Liability: AFFF manufacturers are responsible for the safety of their products. When a product is defective or harmful, manufacturers can be held accountable for the damages caused.
- Failure to Warn: Many companies that produced AFFF were aware of the dangers of PFAS chemicals, yet they did not adequately warn users of the health risks associated with long-term exposure.
- Negligence: Manufacturers who knowingly distributed a dangerous product without performing necessary safety testing or issuing sufficient warnings may be considered negligent.
How Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm Can Help
Mass tort claims allow individuals who have suffered similar injuries from exposure to the same harmful product to join forces in legal action against the responsible companies. Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm has extensive experience in handling complex mass tort cases. Our firm is dedicated to representing AFFF exposure victims, helping them secure the compensation they need to cover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Compensation Available for AFFF Victims
If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and subsequently developed serious health conditions, you may be eligible for compensation. Types of compensation may include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for surgeries, cancer treatments, medications, and ongoing medical care related to AFFF exposure.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity due to long-term health complications.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional suffering caused by your exposure and subsequent health conditions.
- Future Care Needs: Anticipated medical expenses for chronic or long-term effects of AFFF exposure.
Our firm is committed to pursuing every possible avenue to secure the compensation you deserve. We understand the impact that AFFF-related illnesses have on our clients and their families, and we fight to ensure they receive justice for the harm they’ve endured.
Why Choose Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm for Your AFFF Mass Tort Claim?
Choosing the right law firm for your mass tort claim is critical. At Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm, we’re deeply committed to holding corporations accountable when their products harm public health. With a focus on compassionate client care, strategic litigation, and experienced advocacy, our firm is prepared to handle the most challenging mass tort cases, including AFFF claims.
Our approach includes:
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to understand each client’s unique circumstances, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.
- Aggressive Representation: Our firm has a strong track record of fighting large corporations, relentlessly pursuing justice for victims.
- Comprehensive Case Management: From initial investigations through litigation, we handle every aspect of your case, so you can focus on healing.
Begin Your AFFF Claim with Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm
If you or a loved one has suffered due to AFFF exposure, you are not alone. Families nationwide are filing claims to hold AFFF manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by PFAS chemicals. At Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm, we are here to stand by you, guiding you through every step of the legal process as you seek compensation and justice for your injuries.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case, explore your options, and begin the process of filing an AFFF mass tort claim. Let our experienced attorneys help you take a step toward justice and recovery.
