Understanding AFFF Litigation: What You Need to Know
What is AFFF Litigation?
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been widely used for decades to fight fires involving flammable liquids. However, this firefighting foam contains PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which have been linked to serious health and environmental risks.
Many lawsuits have been filed against AFFF manufacturers, claiming they knew about these risks but failed to warn firefighters, military personnel, and communities about potential dangers. These legal actions aim to hold companies accountable and seek compensation for those affected.
Who is Affected by AFFF Exposure?
The people most likely to be impacted by AFFF exposure include:
- Firefighters – Both civilian and military firefighters who regularly used AFFF in training and emergencies.
- Military Personnel – Many bases used AFFF extensively, potentially exposing service members.
- Residents Near Military Bases & Airports – If you live near areas where AFFF was used, your water supply may be contaminated.
On the other side, the defendants in these cases are the companies that manufactured and sold AFFF over the years.
What’s Happening with AFFF Lawsuits?
AFFF lawsuits are being handled through Multi-District Litigation (MDL)—a legal process that consolidates similar cases in one court to streamline pretrial proceedings. This means all lawsuits go through the same judge for motions, discovery (evidence gathering), and other pretrial steps, ensuring consistency across cases.
While some water contamination cases have reached settlements, individual injury claims are still moving through the legal system. If you believe you’ve been exposed, it’s important to stay informed about ongoing litigation.
How Does the Legal Process Work?
If you’re considering legal action, here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:
- Filing a Lawsuit – Individuals or groups file claims against AFFF manufacturers, detailing how exposure has affected them.
- Discovery Phase – Both sides gather and exchange evidence, conduct interviews (depositions), and review documents.
- MDL Proceedings (if applicable) – If your case is part of the MDL, it will follow a structured process for pretrial motions and hearings.
- Settlement or Trial – Some cases may settle before reaching court, while others proceed to trial. A judge or jury will decide the outcome.
Why Does This Matter?
If you or someone you know has been exposed to AFFF, these lawsuits could provide a path to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. More importantly, they bring attention to corporate accountability and environmental safety.
How to Stay Updated
AFFF litigation is ongoing, so staying informed is crucial. Reliable sources for updates include:
- The U.S. Courts Website – www.uscourts.gov (for MDL status and legal updates)
- Legal News Outlets – Websites specializing in mass tort and environmental lawsuits
If you think you’ve been exposed to AFFF and want to explore your legal options, consider speaking with an attorney who specializes in these cases.
