Camp Lejeune Toxic Water Attorneys at Carabin Shaw
If you are one of the 30,000 veterans who live in Austin, you might count yourself among the victims of toxic water at Camp Lejeune. For several decades, military families stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina suffered from a water supply tainted by contaminants that can cause health conditions as severe as leukemia and anemia. Recently, a bill was passed allowing victims to claim damages from the federal government for exposure to poisonous water at Camp Lejeune. However, the process of going after those damages can be complicated, and trying to file a claim without professional legal assistance might prove difficult.
Fortunately, help is available. The Austin Texas attorneys at Carabin Shaw can provide legal aid to those affected by Camp Lejeune’s water supply, guiding you through the process of obtaining the compensation that you deserve.
To learn more about how we can work for you and your family, call 800-862-1260 to schedule a free consultation. Our telephone staff is available 24/7 and can assist you in either English or Spanish.
How Many Were Affected By Toxic Water at Camp Lejeune?From 1953 to 1987, drinking water at Camp Lejeune contained levels of contaminants at concentrations hundreds or thousands of times higher than is considered safe. Estimates say that, over those 34 years, over one million people were exposed to toxic water. Conditions were harmful enough for the EPA to list Camp Lejeune as a Superfund site in 1989.
The contaminants, including benzene and trichloroethylene, can cause several serious health conditions, including:
- Infertility
- Several forms of cancer
- Parkinson’s disease
- Kidney failure
- In-utero exposure
Those who lived at Camp Lejeune during the period of contamination are eligible for financial compensation. If you intend to pursue a settlement, look for an attorney who specializes in veterans’ benefits to assist you.
How Can I Receive Benefits for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?Those who lived at Camp Lejeune from 1954-1987 have a few options when seeking compensation.
In 2017, the Obama administration approved $2 billion in benefits for Camp Lejeune water toxicity victims. In order to receive these benefits, victims have to show that they have suffered from any of eight specific health conditions as a result of exposure to contaminated water. These claims have to go through Veterans Affairs, meaning that they are unavailable to civilians.
In June 2022, the Biden administration approved the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, which grants anyone who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days while the water was contaminated the right to claim damages from the U.S. government. This act means that more people can pursue compensation, including civilians, veterans’ family members, and those affected by conditions other than the eight listed in the 2017 benefits package. Those who have experienced lifelong health complications after being exposed in utero are also eligible.
If you are unsure whether or not you can receive a settlement through either the VA or the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, research your options before taking any action. Schedule a free consultation with a lawyer who has represented other victims, such as the Camp Lejeune toxic water attorneys at Carabin Shaw. If you are a member of the VA, speak to a Veterans Service Officer about your benefits.
Carabin Shaw has a record of success that speaks to our dedication to our clients. Our attorneys offer contingency contracts, meaning that you will only owe legal fees if your claim is successful. For some insight on what it’s like to work with us, look into Carabin Shaw’s client reviews. If you have any further questions about legal options for Camp Lejeune victims, call 800-862-1260 for a free consultation with a member of our legal team.