Tennessee AFFF Lawyer (Aqueous Film Forming Foam)

If you have been exposed to Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and developed cancer or other serious health conditions, you may be entitled to compensation. A Tennessee AFFF lawyer can guide you through mass tort litigation and fight for the compensation you deserve. Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC has decades of experience handling cases involving dangerous products, including firefighting foam. Contact a Tennessee AFF attorney today for a free consultation at (901) 526-2126.

What Is AFFF?

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), commonly known as AFFF firefighting foam, is a specialized firefighting foam that has been used for decades to extinguish fuel-based fires. Its ability to quickly form a film over burning fuel made it a popular choice for firefighters, military personnel, and airport staff. However, AFFF contains toxic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been linked to a variety of serious health problems, including several types of cancer.

AFFF Exposure and Health Risks

Exposure to AFFF often occurs through direct contact or by inhaling the toxic fumes released during firefighting activities. AFFF exposure is particularly concerning because PFAS chemicals can accumulate in the body over time, potentially leading to a higher risk of developing cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Some of the most common health conditions that may be linked to AFFF exposure include:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Liver cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Thyroid cancer

The AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit is relevant to individuals affected by AFFF exposure, as it addresses the harmful effects of these chemicals on health and the environment.

Other health issues associated with PFAS exposure include:

• Thyroid disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• High cholesterol
• Pregnancy-induced hypertension

Many individuals exposed to AFFF have filed lawsuits against manufacturers who may have known about the risks, but failed to warn users. Additionally, these lawsuits aim to hold companies accountable and secure compensation for victims.

If you have been exposed to AFFF and are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, pain, or have been diagnosed with cancer, consult with an experienced AFFF lawyer in Tennessee to explore your legal options.

AFFF Lawsuit Overview

As of 2024, thousands of AFFF lawsuits involving AFFF firefighting foams have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. The litigation is ongoing, with bellwether trials expected to begin soon.

Multidistrict litigation (MDL) is a common process in mass tort cases, especially when numerous plaintiffs are involved in similar claims against the same defendant(s) across different regions. An MDL consolidates similar cases from across the country, which allows the court to handle pretrial matters more efficiently and can lead to quicker resolutions for plaintiffs. As the litigation progresses, there may be updates regarding settlement amounts, trial dates, and other important developments.

At Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC, we stay on top of these updates and will keep you informed throughout the process. If you have any questions or concerns about your case, our AFFF attorneys in Tennessee are always here to help.

Understanding Mass Torts, Class Actions, and MDL

While all three types of litigation include a variety of plaintiffs with similar complaints, there are differences between them.

• Mass Torts: In mass tort litigation, multiple individuals file separate lawsuits against the same defendant(s) based on a common issue, such as exposure to a dangerous product like AFFF. The results of each plaintiff’s case are based on their specific situation.
• Class Actions: In a class action lawsuit, one or a few individuals represent an entire group of people who have suffered similar harm, and the outcome applies to all members of the group. Any award is divided equally between members of the class.
• Multidistrict Litigation (MDL): MDL is a legal process that allows similar cases to be consolidated and managed in one court for the pretrial phase. This helps streamline the litigation process and can make it easier for plaintiffs to access justice.

AFFF Manufacturers and Liability

At Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC, we are actively involved in representing individuals harmed by exposure to AFFF foam. Some of the primary companies facing lawsuits related to AFFF foam include:

• 3M Company
• DuPont
• Tyco Fire Products
• Chemguard
• Buckeye Fire Equipment Company

These companies manufactured and sold AFFF foam despite the possible health risks associated with PFAS chemicals.

The AFFF lawsuits claim that these companies failed to adequately warn users about the dangers of AFFF foam. They also claim that these companies continued to profit from the product even after the risks became known. Plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses resulting from their exposure to toxic firefighting foam.

Who Qualifies for an AFFF Lawsuit?

To qualify for an AFFF lawsuit, you must meet certain criteria. Generally, you may be eligible to file a claim if:

• You were exposed to AFFF: People who typically have exposure include firefighters, military personnel, airport workers, and factory employees who regularly used AFFF to extinguish fires or were exposed to it in other ways.
• You have been diagnosed with a related illness: The most common health conditions linked to AFFF exposure are certain types of cancer and thyroid disease.

Understanding the relevance of the firefighting foam lawsuit is crucial for individuals exposed to AFFF. It addresses legal eligibility and potential compensation for health risks, particularly cancer, associated with PFAS chemicals.

If you believe you or a loved one meets these criteria, contact an AFFF lawyer at Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC for a free case review. We can determine whether you qualify for compensation.

AFFF Litigation Process

The process of filing an AFFF lawsuit involves several key steps. Your Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC attorney will guide you through each stage, from gathering evidence to negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Your AFFF lawyer will begin by conducting a thorough investigation of your case. This includes gathering relevant documents such as medical records, employment history, and evidence of your exposure to AFFF. A firefighting foam attorney plays a crucial role in gathering evidence and preparing the case. We may also consult with experts in toxicology, environmental science, and medicine to strengthen your case.

Filing the Lawsuit

Once the investigation is complete, your lawyer will file a lawsuit on your behalf. This legal document will outline the details of your claim, including how you were exposed to AFFF, the companies responsible for your exposure, and the damages you are seeking.

Firefighting foam attorneys specialize in navigating legal cases related to cancer diagnoses caused by exposure to AFFF products, providing expertise in filing lawsuits and supporting clients.

Settlement Negotiations and Trial

Many AFFF lawsuits are resolved through settlement negotiations with insurance adjusters, where both parties agree on a compensation amount without going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to court. At Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC, we are not afraid to take your case to trial if necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.

Compensation in AFFF Lawsuits

Victims of AFFF exposure may be entitled to various forms of compensation. Ongoing firefighting foam lawsuits highlight the potential compensation for victims, addressing the health implications and legal actions against notable defendants like 3M and DuPont. For instance, these can include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical bills, including cancer treatments, surgeries, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to your illness, as well as compensation for any future loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Money for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your illness.
• Wrongful Death: In cases where a loved one has passed away due to AFFF exposure, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation. This can include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other losses.

Statute of Limitations for AFFF Lawsuits in Tennessee

In Tennessee, you generally have one year from the date you discover your condition to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, the complex nature of AFFF cases may affect this timeline. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has played a crucial role in regulating PFAS chemicals found in AFFF firefighting foam and issuing health advisories related to these substances. Don’t wait – contact our Tennessee AFFF lawyers as soon as possible to protect your rights.

AFFF Lawsuit FAQs

Following are questions we often hear from new clients about AFFF lawsuits.

How long do AFFF lawsuits take?

AFFF lawsuits can take several years due to their complexity. However, some cases may settle more quickly.

Can I file a lawsuit if I was exposed to AFFF but haven’t been diagnosed with cancer?

Generally, you need to have a diagnosis related to AFFF exposure to file a lawsuit. However, you should monitor your health and consult a lawyer if you develop symptoms in the future.

What if my loved one passed away from cancer related to AFFF exposure?

You may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of your deceased family member.

How much does it cost to hire an AFFF lawyer?

At Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront costs, and we only get paid if we win your case.

Can I still file a lawsuit if I was exposed to AFFF years ago?

Possibly. The statute of limitations may be extended in cases where the harm wasn’t immediately apparent. Consult our lawyers to learn about your options.

Why Choose Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC?

At Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC, we understand how devastating a cancer diagnosis can be, especially when it is caused by exposure to a dangerous product like AFFF. Our team of experienced mass tort lawyers is dedicated to fighting for the rights of people who have been harmed by toxic chemicals. With over 40 years of experience and more than $500 million recovered for our clients, we have the knowledge and resources necessary to handle complex cases. We also have extensive experience representing military firefighters affected by AFFF exposure.

When you choose Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC, you are choosing a team that will stand by your side every step of the way throughout your case. We are committed to providing compassionate, personalized representation. Consequently, we will also do everything we can to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Tennessee AFFF Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been exposed to AFFF and developed cancer or another serious illness, don’t wait to take action. Call Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC at (901) 526-2126 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Tennessee AFFF lawyer. We will review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.