AFFF Lawsuits: Can You Get VA Compensation for AFFF Exposure?

Former military firefighters and personnel who were exposed to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) during their service may be eligible to pursue both VA disability compensation and file lawsuits against the manufacturers responsible for creating these products filled with harmful chemicals.

Many individuals are stepping forward to seek accountability from the companies that produced AFFF, which has been linked to serious health risks, including cancer.

AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits have been filed against several major manufacturers, including:

• Chemours
• DuPont
• Tyco Fire Products
• 3M
• Other AFFF manufacturers

If your service involved exposure to toxic firefighting foam, you may have the option to file an AFFF lawsuit in addition to seeking VA disability benefits for related health issues.

Reach out to us today to discuss your potential case and learn more about the steps involved in pursuing an AFFF lawsuit.

You can do so by using the chat on this page for an instant case evaluation to determine if you qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit today.

The VA disability claims process for exposure to AFFF firefighting foam ensures that you take the proper steps toward securing benefits.

By becoming familiar with each stage, you can better prepare to pursue the compensation you may be entitled to through VA disability benefits.

In this section, we’ll guide you through the necessary steps involved in filing a VA claim related to AFFF exposure.

Filing Your Initial VA Claim

The first step in pursuing VA disability benefits is filing your initial claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

This claim must include formal documentation that verifies your exposure to AFFF and PFAS, along with medical evidence showing that you’ve developed cancer or other related health conditions from this exposure.

There are two (2) main ways to submit your claim:

1. You can mail your application to any of the Department of Veterans Affairs offices.
2. Alternatively, you can file your application online, which may be a more convenient option.

Development and Evidence Collection

After your initial claim is filed, the VA will begin gathering evidence to build your case.

This stage involves collecting relevant documents such as medical records and service history.

It’s important to be proactive during this process, providing any additional information or documentation that the VA may request.

Being responsive can help ensure your claim progresses smoothly and without unnecessary delays.

VA Claim Review Process

Once all necessary evidence has been gathered, the VA will review your claim.

During this phase, a claims examiner evaluates the documentation to determine the validity of your case.

The review process can vary in length depending on factors such as the nature of your case, the VA’s current workload, and whether additional evidence is needed.

In many cases, the VA may take up to 103 days to process and make a decision on your claim.

It’s important to remain patient and check in periodically to stay updated on your claim’s progress.

VA Decision on Your Claim

When the review is complete, the VA will issue a decision.

The outcome will generally fall into one of three categories:

1. Approval: If your claim is approved, you will be notified of the benefits you are eligible to receive, which may include medical compensation and disability ratings.
2. Denial: If your claim is denied, the VA will provide an explanation for the decision and may request additional documentation to support your case.
3. Request for Additional Information: In some cases, the VA may need further evidence, such as medical evaluations or other supporting documents, before issuing a final decision.

Regardless of the outcome, it’s important to review the VA’s decision carefully to fully understand your next steps.

Appealing a Denied Claim

If you disagree with the VA’s decision, you have the right to file an appeal.

The appeals process allows you to present additional evidence and argue your case for reconsideration.

While the appeal process can be challenging, especially in cases involving AFFF exposure, it’s important to know that support is available.

The AFFF firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms are here to help individuals explore their legal options if they have been denied AFFF-related disability benefits.

If you are interested in pursuing an AFFF lawsuit following a VA claim denial, don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.

Use the chat on this page for an instant case evaluation to determine if you qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit today.

Determining your eligibility is the first step in pursuing a VA disability compensation claim related to AFFF firefighting foam exposure.

Below are the eligibility criteria you must meet to file your claim.

Service Connection Requirements

To qualify for VA benefits, you must have served on active duty in the military.

This includes any branch of the armed forces during the time of your exposure to AFFF.

Beyond proving active service, you will need to demonstrate that your exposure to PFAS and AFFF firefighting foam occurred during your military service.

This can be done using reports, medical records, or other documentation that shows your involvement in firefighting operations or fire suppression training exercises.

Health Conditions Caused by PFAS Exposure

The VA acknowledges the potential link between PFAS exposure and various health conditions, including cancer.

To support your claim, the VA will request medical records showing your diagnosis.

In addition to your diagnosis, you must establish a connection between your exposure to AFFF firefighting foam and the health issues you are experiencing.

Discharge Status and Eligibility

Typically, veterans with an honorable discharge are eligible for VA benefits.

However, under certain circumstances, those with other discharge statuses may still qualify for compensation, depending on the details of their service and discharge.

Gathering the right evidence is necessary when seeking VA disability compensation for health issues related to AFFF exposure.

It also plays an important role if you’re pursuing both a VA disability claim and an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.

Medical Documentation

Medical records are important for verifying the connection between your illness and exposure to PFAS chemicals found in AFFF.

They also help demonstrate the severity of your health condition, providing the foundation for both VA compensation claims and AFFF lawsuits.

When compiling your medical records, include documentation such as medical diagnoses, treatment records, and test results that show a link between your condition and exposure to AFFF.

Additionally, expert opinions from medical professionals who understand the health impacts of PFAS exposure can be highly valuable.

These expert statements can further strengthen your claim by directly linking your diagnosis to AFFF.

Military Service Records

Military firefighters and personnel are among the most commonly exposed to AFFF during service.

If you belong to this group, providing military service records is important to supporting your claim.

Relevant service records can include duty assignments, deployment history, training records, and performance evaluations.

These documents can establish that you were likely exposed to AFFF during your time in service.

Other helpful records might include incident reports, training materials that reference AFFF, or witness statements from fellow service members who can confirm your exposure.

Additional Supporting Evidence

Additional evidence can also help strengthen your claim.

Statements from colleagues, photographs, videos, or any documentation related to AFFF usage during your service may further prove your exposure.

The more supporting evidence you have, the stronger your case becomes — whether you’re pursuing VA disability compensation or considering legal action through an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.

Here are a few steps to follow when filing a disability compensation claim with the VA related to AFFF exposure.

1. Consult with Legal Support

Before beginning the VA claims process, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney who has experience in handling AFFF-related cases.

Legal support can provide guidance, explain your rights, and help you understand the process, ensuring you are informed throughout.

2. Gather Necessary Documentation

It’s important to collect all relevant documentation that links your military service or work environment to AFFF exposure.

This may include military service records, incident reports, medical records, and any other documents that support your claim of exposure and subsequent health conditions.

3. File Your Initial Claim

If you choose to work with a law firm, they will assist in completing and submitting the necessary forms to file your initial claim with the VA.

Be thorough in detailing your AFFF exposure, any diagnosed health conditions, and provide all the supporting documentation you’ve gathered.

4. Respond to VA Information Requests

Throughout the claims process, the VA may request additional information or clarification about your claim.

It’s important to respond promptly and accurately to these requests.

Working closely with legal counsel can help ensure all requested information is provided in a timely manner.

5. Review the VA’s Decision

Once your claim has been reviewed, the VA will issue a decision.

Carefully examine the decision letter, making sure to read all relevant details and explanations provided by the VA regarding their ruling.

6. Appeal if Necessary

If your claim is denied or if you disagree with the VA’s decision, you have the right to appeal.

Legal assistance can be invaluable during the appeals process, helping to gather additional evidence, present strong arguments, and advocate for your case in hearings if necessary.

Whether or not the VA has made a decision on your disability claim, you may still be eligible to file an AFFF firefighting foam cancer lawsuit.

Even if you haven’t filed for VA disability benefits yet, pursuing legal action remains an option for those affected by AFFF exposure.

Find out if you qualify to join the AFFF litigation today — TruLaw is here to provide you with the legal resources you need if you have been impacted by exposure to these toxic chemicals.

You can use the chatbot on this page to instantly determine your eligibility for the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.

TruLaw is actively reviewing cases related to AFFF firefighting foam exposure and working to determine potential clients’ eligibility to join the ongoing AFFF litigation.

Our focus is on helping individuals who may have been affected by toxic firefighting foam exposure explore their legal options.

If you or a loved one were exposed to firefighting foam and have since developed cancer or other related health issues, you may qualify for an AFFF lawsuit.

Contact TruLaw for more information and to see how we can assist you.

You can use the chatbot on this page to instantly check if you are eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit.