Camp Lejeune lawsuits are increasing, and new accounts of veterans who have suffered are coming to light. Even though August 10, 2023, will mark the first anniversary since the enactment of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 (“Justice Act”), there are still unexpected delays in settling the cases.
In June 2023, News4jax reported on two women from Jacksonville who have decided to seek justice for their husbands’ deaths. Both men lost their lives to cancer after being stationed at Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, where they were affected by the toxic water. These women connected in Jacksonville a year ago and decided to take on their husbands’ unresolved battle.
While we hope these determined women achieve their mission, we cannot overlook the reality of delayed cases. Even though both women filed their legal complaints, the cases are yet to move forward. Now, they fear that the litigation process could take a lifetime.
However, Cynthia Henderson, the founder of the “Female Veterans Network” suggests that veterans often get barraged with information and should consider an alternative approach. They could opt for a disability payment under the Veterans Administration. It’s a move now supported by Philip Watson of Citrus County Veterans Service.
Is It Possible to Get Disability Payments for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits?
In July 2023, Chronicle Online reported that Philip Watson, helps veterans to file their disability claims, who didn’t get it via V.A. He shares that a few people might want to obtain a big settlement amount from their lawsuit.
However, the veterans who have suffered ailments mentioned on the “presumptive list”, were believed to have been exposed to polluted Camp Lejeune waters. They have a chance to get disability payments from the government. A person with a disability linked to their service can get a disability pay of $50,000 or more. The dependents who stayed at the base are eligible for paid medical costs.
Watson asserted that people seeking recovery for their damages have a choice to make. Either they should go ahead with a Camp Lejeune lawsuit or file a disability claim.
The presumptive conditions that got caused by the tainted waters of Camp Lejeune are:
- Aplastic anemia
- Adult leukemia
- Bladder cancer
- Myelodysplastic syndromes,
- Kidney cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma,
- Multiple myeloma
- Parkinson’s disease
- Liver cancer
Individuals affected by these health conditions are eligible for free property tax, healthcare, and various other benefits. However, veterans who think that they are suffering from ailments caused by polluted waters can get healthcare payments or disability payments. Watson further added that supporting the claims with apt medical data and evidence is helpful.
Filing A Legal Complaint
Today, more than a million people who stayed at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 have been exposed to the polluted water. These people include family members, veterans, workers, and others. Affected individuals can file a legal complaint with correct proof.
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act enables the victims to file administrative claims with Navy Tort/JAG Claims. In case it’s not settled in 6 months, the claimants can file the lawsuit at the district court of the United States, in North Carolina, Eastern District.
The settlement payout for Camp Lejeune lawsuits can be more than $6.7 billion. There is a possibility that a few victims might receive a settlement that is more than $1 million. But that doesn’t mean every victim who files a complaint will be entitled to the same payment.
TorHoerman Law states that the settlement of every case depends on the conditions diagnosed, injuries, the time the person spent at the base, and many more. The lawsuit settlements can also comprise lost wages, medical expenses and bills, emotional damages, pain, and suffering. All this is possible with the correct evidence provided by the victim.
The evidence victims need to keep handy includes medical records, medical bills, and documents proving they stayed at Camp Lejeune. A few others also include military service records, healthcare data, travel records, and disability benefit records. The lawyer can use information from this evidence and create a strong case to present to the court.
It’s important to note that the VA periodically reviews and updates its policies, so it’s recommended to visit the official VA website or contact them directly for the most current and accurate information regarding disability compensation for Camp Lejeune-related illnesses.
If you are a veteran who believes you may be eligible for disability compensation due to Camp Lejeune water contamination, you should consider reaching out to a veterans’ service organization (VSO) or a legal professional who specializes in veterans’ benefits to get personalized guidance and assistance with the claims process.
Conclusion
The Camp Lejeune lawsuits present a glimmer of hope for individuals who have suffered from getting exposed to toxic water contaminants during their service. As the legal process unfolds, it becomes evident that every victim is seeking justice to cover their damages.
The road to justice may be lengthy and challenging. But the determination of people pursuing justice, coupled with the support of legal experts and advocacy groups, paves the way for a fair resolution. As the legal battles continue, veterans and their families must remain informed about their rights and options. They should also seek the assistance of qualified attorneys specializing in toxic exposure cases.
