Toxic chemical exposure is a growing public health crisis in the United States—and PFAS contamination is at the center of it. If you’ve been exposed to PFAS through your drinking water, workplace, or local environment, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit for financial compensation.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the PFAS contamination lawsuits, including how to check your eligibility, who is being held liable, and what compensation victims may receive.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS, short for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, are a group of man-made chemicals used in a wide variety of industries since the 1940s. These “forever chemicals” are incredibly resistant to breaking down in the environment and the human body. They’re commonly found in:
- Nonstick cookware (like Teflon)
- Waterproof clothing
- Food packaging
- Firefighting foam (AFFF)
- Industrial waste
Once PFAS enter the bloodstream, they can remain there for years, potentially causing serious long-term health problems.
Health Risks Linked to PFAS Exposure
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and various scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to a number of serious health issues, including:
- Kidney and testicular cancer
- Liver damage
- High cholesterol
- Thyroid disease
- Hormonal imbalances
- Low birth weight
- Immune system suppression
Because PFAS accumulate in the body, even small amounts over time can be dangerous—especially in communities with contaminated drinking water.
Who Can File a PFAS Lawsuit?
You may qualify to join a PFAS contamination lawsuit if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
1. You Lived in a Contaminated Area
If your municipal water supply or private well has been confirmed to contain PFAS above safe limits, you might qualify. Many states have published maps or reports showing PFAS contamination zones. Some of the most impacted states include:
- Michigan
- Ohio
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- California
- Pennsylvania
2. You Worked with Firefighting Foam (AFFF)
Firefighters—especially those in military, airport, or industrial settings—often used AFFF, a foam that contains high levels of PFAS. Firefighters who later developed cancer or other health conditions may be eligible for compensation.
3. You Suffered Health Problems Linked to PFAS
Medical records showing diagnosis of conditions like kidney cancer, ulcerative colitis, or thyroid disease following documented PFAS exposure can strengthen your claim.
4. You Drank or Used PFAS-Tainted Water
Even without a specific diagnosis, residents of known contamination zones who used the water for years may qualify for medical monitoring and future health screening.
How to Check If You Qualify for a PFAS Lawsuit
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to find out if you may be eligible:
Step 1: Identify Exposure Location
Find out if your home, school, or workplace is in a known PFAS contamination zone. The EPA and many state environmental agencies publish interactive PFAS maps.
Tip: Visit your state’s Department of Environmental Quality website and search “PFAS contamination map.”
Step 2: Get Your Water Tested (If Applicable)
If you use a private well, testing your water through a certified lab can determine if PFAS levels are above advisory thresholds.
Step 3: Gather Medical Records
If you’ve been diagnosed with a PFAS-related illness, collect relevant medical documentation. A medical history that shows a timeline linking PFAS exposure to health decline can strengthen your case.
Step 4: Contact a PFAS Lawyer
Many law firms offer free consultations and only charge if you win a settlement. An experienced PFAS attorney can help determine whether you qualify for:
- A class action lawsuit
- An individual personal injury claim
- Medical monitoring compensation
Major Companies Facing PFAS Lawsuits
Several chemical companies and manufacturers have been named in large-scale PFAS litigation, including:
- 3M
- DuPont
- Chemours
- Tyco Fire Products
- Corteva
- BASF
These companies are accused of knowingly releasing PFAS into the environment and failing to warn the public about the associated risks.
Recent Settlements and Legal Developments
In 2023, 3M agreed to pay $10.3 billion to settle claims from U.S. public water systems affected by PFAS contamination. Other major settlements are expected to follow in 2025 and beyond.
Legal experts predict the PFAS lawsuits could become one of the largest mass torts in U.S. history, similar in scale to asbestos and tobacco litigation.
Types of Compensation Available
If you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit, you may be entitled to one or more of the following:
| Compensation Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Past and future treatment for PFAS-related illnesses |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical and emotional distress due to illness |
| Lost Wages | Time off work due to illness or recovery |
| Property Damage | Costs to filter or replace contaminated water systems |
| Medical Monitoring | Ongoing health screening for early disease detection |
| Wrongful Death Damages | Compensation for families of loved ones lost to illness |
Class Action vs. Individual PFAS Lawsuits
Class Action Lawsuits: Ideal for individuals who have been exposed but have not yet developed severe health conditions. These lawsuits group many claimants together and often seek damages for property loss and medical monitoring.
Individual Personal Injury Lawsuits: Best for those who have a clear medical diagnosis tied to PFAS exposure and seek compensation for pain, suffering, and long-term care.
Your lawyer will help you determine which option fits your case best.
Statute of Limitations: Act Quickly
Every state has a different statute of limitations for toxic exposure claims—often ranging from 2 to 6 years after discovering the injury or contamination.
Delaying action could result in losing your right to file. It’s crucial to consult a legal expert as soon as possible if you suspect PFAS exposure.
Final Thoughts
If you or a loved one has been exposed to PFAS and experienced health issues or property damage, you’re not alone. Thousands of Americans are currently pursuing justice through PFAS lawsuits, and many more may qualify without even realizing it.
Checking your eligibility is free, and the sooner you act, the more legal options may be available. With billions of dollars on the line in settlements, the time to speak up is now.