MCAS (Marine Corps Air Station) and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune New River are two locations in North Carolina where US Marines are stationed. Between August 1953 and December 1987, people at these facilities drank tainted water. For many years, the poisoning went unnoticed by the Marines and their families. In 1982, it was discovered that the water on these bases contained toxic chemicals.
While serving in military always carries some level of risk, it should not come from the training facilities along with the tainted water. Many harmed people might be able to sue the government after Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 was passed into law. On your behalf, lawyer for the Camp Lejeune water contamination may seek financial recompense.
Just because the government allowed the victims to claim for benefits doesn’t mean it is an easy task. Many claims have been denied for various reasons. The victims should seek the help of Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit lawyers to prevent their claim from being denied. A lawyer can protect the rights of the victim and can get them the compensation they deserve.
If you are not sure about your eligibility in filing a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit, then the following article will clear up a lot of confusion;
Who is Eligible to File a Lawsuit?
Veterans from the US and others affected by poisoned water are currently ilicit from suing the government for damages. However, Veterans and their families, are eligible to claim the disability payments through VA. To be eligible for profits, veterans must accomplish certain requirements. Then they can be eligible for the medical care as well as for financial compensation. The following criteria must be met to qualify:
- You must have spent thirty days or more on active duty at Marine Corps Air Station or Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune New River between August 1953 and December 1987.
- You must not have been discharged dishonorably.
- You must suffer from at least one of eight particular medical conditions.
- You must have proof that your current medical condition is the direct result of consuming tainted water.
- For receiving benefits for the family, proof of their stay on the Campgrounds must be provided.
One of the primary methods for obtaining financial aid for the medical costs associated with exposure to contaminated water is through the VA. However, in the past, VA denied many such claims, but since the Camp Lejeune Act was passed, all such claims can be appealed with fresh evidence.
Additional Parties Who May Submit a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Claim
Reservists, guardsmen, and family members who were also exposed may also be eligible for VA benefits. Family members of veterans who served at Camp Lejeune must provide specific evidence demonstrating their exposure during the required period to be eligible for benefits.
They must, for instance, present proof of their relationship to the veteran, such as a marriage license or birth certificate. A record showing that they resided on the base for at least 30 days between August 1953 and December 1987 is also required. They must also present medical proof of a qualifying ailment.
Since the passing of the new act, more opportunities for compensation will become available to the affected families. However, the statute of limitations for such cases expires in 2024, therefore, you must take necessary actions as quickly as possible.
