What are the Qualifications to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit?

You may or may not have heard of the recent Camp Lejeune lawsuit, where people are now filing lawsuits for an incident that occurred from the 1950s to the 1980s. This incident is known as one of the worst public water contamination disasters in history, and has led to severe health effects for the victims of the Camp Lejeune toxic water scandal.

Below is everything you need to know about qualifications to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit. Read below to see if you or a loved one qualify to file for a Camp Lejeune lawsuit, and the steps you can take to get the settlement you deserve for you and your family.

What Caused Toxic Water in Camp Lejeune?

The CDC states that the toxic water in Camp Lejeune was a result of toxic water runoff from a nearby dry cleaners, which drained water into their pipes without any sort of protection or cleaning. These toxic chemicals then seeped into the surrounding areas of Camp Lejeune, leading to a rise in carcinogens in the surrounding water.

Sadly, toxic carcinogens and chemicals would be responsible for the death and disease of many people living on the base. This includes children, infants, health workers, civilian workers, and military personnel.

Do I Meet the Qualifications?

Fortunately, a new law came into effect known as the PACT Act. The PACT Act was signed into effect by president Joe Biden on August 8, 2022, and it gave power to victims of the toxic water in Camp Lejeune. Victims could now file for lawsuits against the federal government, which would allow them to receive compensation for any injuries suffered due to the toxic water exposure.

To qualify to file a lawsuit, you must:

• Have been exposed to the water for a period of 30 days or more consecutively, between the years 1953 and 1987
• You must suffer from one of the many diseases caused by water and recognized by the VA, including certain cancers, infertility, and other related health problems
• You must not have a dishonorable discharge to file for VA disability
• You must offset all damages won from your lawsuit with VA disability awards

How to File a Lawsuit

If you meet all of the criteria above, you can go ahead and file a lawsuit to seek compensation, with the help of a lawyer of course. However, before you file a civil lawsuit, it’s best to file for your VA disability claim.

A VA disability rating will help you earn a monthly income that can help offset medical bills and serve as compensation for the injuries you suffered as a result of the water exposure at Camp Lejune. To file a VA disability claim, it’s best to talk to a lawyer for advice. Your lawyer can help you build a strong claim so you get the highest VA disability rating possible for your disease.

Fortunately, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and PACT act also make it easier for people to file claims, even if they are civilians.