The legal process in an AFFF exposure case can take some time, depending on the severity of your case. If you have been exposed to AFFF or other chemicals that have been known to cause health problems, you may want to contact an attorney who has experience with toxic exposure and personal injury as soon as possible.
What Is AFFF?
AFFF, also known as Aqueous Film Forming Foam, is a highly flammable liquid used primarily for extinguishing fires. It is composed of the compounds Ammonium Polyphosphate (APP) and Monoethanolamine (MEA). APP is a chemical compound that has been around since the early 1900s, while MEA was first introduced into commercial use in the 1930s. Both compounds are highly toxic if ingested.
Firefighters have been using AFFF to extinguish fires for decades because it is extremely effective. Unfortunately, we are now learning that the use of AFFF can cause serious health issues while also having a negative impact on the environment. When AFFF is repeatedly used in one location over a long period of time (e.g., fire training facilities), the chemicals can migrate from the foam into the soil and then groundwater.
What to Do After AFFF Exposure
- If you're working with AFFF, be sure to immediately remove all clothing and shoes afterwards. Then, wash your body thoroughly with soap and water.
- You should rinse your mouth out and only breathe through your mouth. This will prevent inhalation of the chemicals.
- If you've been injured by someone else's negligence, you may have a case. Contact an attorney immediately for more information about filing a claim.
How Long Can AFFF Exposure Cases Take?
Toxic exposure cases can be complex and challenging. Considering all the numerous factors involved in a toxic exposure claim, you should expect to wait several years when it comes to the timing of your case. Of course, this will vary case by case depending on witnesses, medical records, your medical diagnosis, expert testimony and the type of insurance coverage you have.
Compensation for AFFF Related Damages
If you were injured while using Aqueous Film Forming Foam, you could potentially recover damages from the company that manufactured the product. If you have suffered health issues or lost someone close to you due to the use of AFFF, you may be able to seek compensation for these damages. This is where our lawyers at the Dolman Law Group come in, we know how important it is to hold negligent parties accountable.
Who is Liable for my AFFF Exposure Injuries?
If you were diagnosed with cancer or other illnesses after exposure to AFFF, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the negligent manufacturers. The manufacturer of the Aqueous Film Forming Foam may be responsible for paying for your hospital bills, physical therapy, pain and suffering, prescriptions, lost wages, and other related expenses. However, if you have been exposed to AFFF through another party's negligence, they may also be held financially responsible for your injuries.
When Should I File a Claim?
Following AFFF exposure and a diagnosed illness related to that exposure, contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. If you suffer immediate effects from your exposure (such as skin burns), you should file a lawsuit immediately.
It can be beneficial for you to work closely with a personal injury attorney to learn more about your legal rights and what information you will need to provide to prove that you have grounds for an AFFF lawsuit. A personal injury attorney can help provide you with an overview of the specific compensation you deserve and who you should approach for compensation.
Contact the Dolman Law Group
We understand the importance of holding negligent parties accountable for their mistakes. If you've recently been exposed to AFFFs or suffered severe injuries due to a defective product, we'd like to hear from you. Contact the Dolman Law Group today for a free consultation.