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In order to save lives and protect property, firefighters and military servicemembers knowingly accept dangerous risks. But many of these emergency responders knew nothing about the invisible risks of PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) in the foam they used to control large blazes, like oil fires and jet airplane crash fires.

Aqueous Film Forming Foam Lawyers for Firefighters and Veterans

Have you or a loved one been affected by aqueous film forming foam? File an AFFF lawsuit with the attorneys at Napoli Shkolnik. We fight for you, holding AFFF manufacturers responsible.

Frequently Asked Questions

AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit: The Background

In order to save lives and protect property, firefighters and military service members knowingly accept dangerous risks. But many of these emergency responders knew nothing about the invisible risks of PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) in the foam they used to control large blazes, 

In the early aughts, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the use of some of these toxic chemicals and launched a program to reduce PFAS emissions and product content by 100% by 2015. Manufacturers began using new forms of chemicals which may still cause health risks.  

AFFF cancer lawsuits and these chemical exposure personal injury claims are not going away. 

The Napoli Shkolnik Difference 

Because of the dangers of toxic firefighting foam and companies’ disregard for the health and safety of firefighters and veterans, the attorneys at Napoli Shkolnik can often obtain substantial compensation for exposure victims.

Our professional team includes Stephen Holihan, a retired FDNY firefighter who is also a 9/11 first responder. Mr. Holihan’s unique perspective fuels our team’s ability to stand up for AFFF victims like no one else can.

The Public Client Group attorneys have worked on many environmental litigation cases, including successful representation of public water systems contaminated by PFAS. 

The Napoli Shkolnik Wins

At Napoli Shkolnik, we're not only firefighting foam lawyers. We fight for all victims, including individuals, families, and public entities. Below, we've highlighted some of our victories in environmental litigation for our public client group clients.

$12.5 billion 3M settlement

Napoli Shkolnik, with the PFAS Settlement Steering Committee, announces a $12.5 billion settlement with 3M in the ongoing PFAS contamination litigation, resolving claims of impacted Public Water Systems nationwide.

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$1.185  billion settlement approved with DuPont

Paul Napoli and co-leads of the AFFF MDL reach a $1.185 billion settlement with DuPont, Chemours, and Corteva for PFAS contamination, with preliminary approval granted on February 9, 2024.

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$750 million settlement with Tyco Fire Products LP

Paul Napoli and AFFF MDL co-leads secure a groundbreaking $750 million settlement with Tyco Fire Products LP to remediate PFAS-contaminated drinking water sources for public water systems, pending Court approval by Judge Richard Gergel.

Click Here To Learn More

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF): The Hazards

Perfluorooctanoic acid creates a permanent barrier between two substances. So, it was a highly used chemical in a number of products, such as AFFF and stain resistant carpet. Because DuPont blatantly put profits before people and suppressed negative information about PFOA, firefighters, veterans, and consumers did not know about the risks. 

Some of these direct risks include:

• Thyroid cancer,
• Kidney cancer,
• Testicular cancer,
• Prostate cancer,
• Bladder cancer,
• Breast Cancer
• Liver cancer,
• Preeclampsia,
• Pancreatic cancer
• Thyroid disease, and
• Ulcerative colitis.

Additionally, PFOA has been linked to elevated cholesterol levels and a compromised immune system. These effects make victims susceptible to a wide range of adverse health conditions.

Even if the victim had another condition, such as genetic predisposition, which contributed to the high cholesterol or other issue, full compensation is usually available, as outlined below. 

The eggshell skull rule is a common legal doctrine that's used in many lawsuits, including AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits. It states that defendants take victims as they find them. Defendants cannot profit because the victim was unusually vulnerable to a specific kind of injury.

Your Claim for Damages

In a way, AFFF lawsuits are rather straightforward. Victim/plaintiffs must usually prove the following:

• Emissions or chemicals entered the environment at levels high enough to cause injury,
• The emissions or chemicals were dangerous, and
• Victims were actually injured.

PFOA is highly dangerous. Generally, there is no safe exposure level. Additionally, PFOA is one of a handful of “forever chemicals.” It does not break down. Once perfluorooctanoic acid enters the body, it usually causes long-term damage. That's why these claims are often called firefighting foam cancer lawsuits. AFFF exposure permanently affects human health in extremely detrimental ways. 

What to Look for in Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawyers

Choosing the right attorney for your firefighting foam cancer lawsuit is crucial to ensuring your legal rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Here are key factors to consider when selecting a firefighting foam cancer lawyer:

Experience and Expertise

Look for attorneys who have specific experience and expertise in handling firefighting foam cancer cases. They should be familiar with the complexities of these lawsuits, including the scientific and medical aspects related to exposure to substances like PFOA and PFOS.

Track Record of Success

Research the lawyer's track record of success in similar cases. An attorney with a history of securing favorable settlements or verdicts for firefighting foam cancer victims demonstrates their ability to effectively represent your interests.

Resources and Support

Ensure that the law firm you choose has the resources and support necessary to handle your case effectively. This includes access to expert witnesses, medical professionals, and investigative resources to strengthen your claim.

Compassion and Communication

Look for a lawyer who demonstrates compassion and empathy for your situation. Effective communication is also essential, so choose an attorney who keeps you informed about the progress of your case and answers your questions promptly.

Transparency and Integrity

Choose a lawyer who operates with transparency and integrity. They should provide clear explanations of legal fees and potential outcomes, allowing you to make informed decisions about your case.

Client Reviews and Testimonials

Read client reviews and testimonials to gauge the satisfaction of previous clients with the lawyer's services. Positive feedback and testimonials can provide insight into the attorney's professionalism and dedication to client advocacy.

Considering these factors and conducting thorough research will help you choose a firefighting foam cancer lawyer who is well-equipped to handle your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Exposure to a minuscule amount of PFOA could mean a lifetime of suffering for veterans and firefighters. For a free consultation with an experienced environmental litigator, contact Napoli Shkolnik PLLC. We do not charge upfront legal fees in injury cases.

News on Hazardous Substances

Napoli Shkolnik is on the cutting edge of changing chemical rulings and legislation. We commend the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for setting regulatory standards on PFAS in drinking water.

As representatives of numerous public water systems in the Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF), AFFF firefighting foam MDL, and more, we know this is a crucial step toward guaranteeing safe drinking water for Americans and safe working conditions for thousands of individuals.