Atwater Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Atwater Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

Atwater is one of numerous cities in California that struggles with water contamination. PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” arsenic, and TCP are all toxic substances found in Atwater drinking water that are also linked to life-threatening health conditions. Learn more about the history of water contamination in Atwater, what legal action people are taking, and the risks the public faces as toxic water goes unresolved. 

Atwater, California Water Contamination Overview

Atwater is located in San Joaquin Valley, California, in Merced County. It is a smaller city with a history strongly tied to agriculture. The city has grown throughout the decades thanks to its agricultural and industrial success with food processing and manufacturing. Unfortunately, it has also struggled with water contamination from this activity and its local military base, Castle Air Force Base.  

Atwater, California Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

The City of Atwater has taken legal action against chemical manufacturers for toxic water contamination. Atwater’s lawsuit against TCP product manufacturers recovered compensation to help with extensive water treatment efforts. However, PFAS continues to be a major concern, especially in areas at and around the former military site, Castle Air Force Base. 

For those who have been exposed to PFAS-contaminated water in Atwater, CA before developing a serious health illness (like kidney cancer or testicular cancer), legal action could help. Water contamination claims can hold chemical manufacturers responsible for wrongful exposure, providing compensation to help with lost income, medical bills, and other damages. To determine your eligibility and legal options, contact King Law today.

About Atwater, California Water Contamination:

History of Water Contamination in Atwater, California

Learn more about the history of Atwater water contamination: 

• 2023-2024: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) published PFAS contamination results for Atwater, revealing contamination of multiple different types of PFAS above the new EPA enforceable limits (4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS). 
• 2022: The California Drinking Water Program 2022 Annual Compliance Report flagged 12 violations of 1,2,3-TCP contaminants in the Dole Atwater Plant public water system, serving a population of around 1,500 people. 
• 2021: The EWG provided a Tap Water Database Update that identified 27 total contaminants in Atwater groundwater, 13 of which exceeded EWG Health Guidelines. This included arsenic at 1,018 times the EWG Health Guideline. 
• 2019: A jury awarded the City of Atwater $63 million in damages for TCP water contamination caused by Shell Oil Company. For decades, Shell marketed a product containing TCP that Atwater used for agriculture without realizing it contained the toxin. 
• 2018: City drinking water wells tested positive for TCP levels that exceeded state limits, prompting the City of Atwater to take legal action. 
• 1997-1999: Various excavation efforts sought to remove toxic chemicals from the soil and groundwater at the former Castle Air Force Base military site, now a Superfund site. 
• 1995: Castle Air Force Base was officially shut down and operations commenced to clean up hazardous contamination at the site.
• 1941-1977: Hazardous wastes generated from Castle Air Force Base were improperly disposed of at the site, causing soil and groundwater contamination with dozens of toxic chemicals.

Sources of Water Contamination in Atwater, California

Some key sources of water contamination in Atwater, CA include: 

Military activity: Military activity at Castle Air Force Base is a prominent source of PFAS contamination in Atwater, CA. Firefighting foam containing PFAS was used for decades and would be sprayed directly onto the ground to put out or maintain fires. The foam then seeped into soil and groundwater, tainting water supplies. Atwater drinking water has tested positive for high levels of PFAS, putting residents at risk of various health conditions, including cancer. 

Agricultural activity: The main source of excessive TCP water contamination for Atwater has been from agricultural activity. Chemical manufacturers marketed nematicide products that were used across Atwater agricultural lands without disclosing that the products contained TCP.  This has led to groundwater contamination that has also migrated because of runoff, especially after heavy rains. 

Natural occurrences: Atwater groundwater has tested positive for elevated levels of arsenic. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can cause severe health effects. There are various ways it can enter the groundwater, including drilling, mining, natural erosion, and other disturbances.

Atwater, California PFAS Water Contamination Map

Our Atwater contamination map shows where PFAS has been detected above regulatory limits. Keep in mind: PFAS contamination can migrate through groundwater and soil, impacting more and more communities as it spreads. Furthermore, these “forever chemicals” do not break down in the environment and continue to build up over time, heightening safety risk. 

Castle Air Force Base has notable PFAS levels from 2020 test results. Groundwater at the base tested positive for seven types of PFAS including PFOS at 2,300 ppt and PFOA at 340 ppt (2020). The City of Atwater drinking water system tested positive for ten types of PFAS including PFOS at 45 ppt and PFOA at 33 ppt (2023-2024).

Contaminants Found in Atwater, California Drinking Water

The main contaminants in Atwater, California drinking water include: 

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination is an increasing concern in Atwater, California. These man-made chemicals, commonly found in products like firefighting foam, are known for their persistence in the environment and in the human body. In Atwater, PFAS has been detected in groundwater, raising significant concerns about the risks associated with long-term exposure for residents.

The health risks tied to PFAS exposure are serious, as these chemicals accumulate in the body over time. Potential health issues include:

• Elevated risk of cancers, particularly kidney and testicular cancer
• Liver damage
• Thyroid disorders
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Weakened immune system
• Pregnancy complications, such as high blood pressure and low birth weight

Arsenic 

Arsenic contamination in Atwater, California’s drinking water presents a serious health threat, particularly in areas reliant on groundwater. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can seep into water supplies from the surrounding rocks and soil. In certain parts of Atwater, arsenic levels have been found to exceed the safety guidelines set by the EPA.

Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water can lead to severe health issues, including:

• Increased risk of various cancers, including skin, lung, and bladder cancer
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Neurological problems, such as cognitive impairment and developmental challenges in children
• Skin issues, including lesions and discoloration
• Diabetes
• Respiratory difficulties

1,2,3-Trichloropropane

TCP is a man-made chemical primarily used as an industrial solvent and in the production of pesticides. When present in drinking water, it poses significant health risks due to its toxic nature. TCP is classified as a likely human carcinogen, meaning long-term exposure can increase the risk of cancer. This chemical is resistant to natural degradation, so it can persist in water supplies for extended periods, leading to prolonged exposure for those consuming contaminated water.

The primary health risks associated with exposure to TCP in drinking water include:

• Increased risk of cancer, particularly liver, kidney, and thyroid cancers
• Liver and kidney damage
• Reproductive and developmental problems
• Respiratory issues

Current Water Quality in Atwater, California

Atwater continues to struggle with contaminated water, though great strides have been made to greatly reduce TCP contamination. PFAS continues to be a major concern with some 2023-2024 test results showing PFOA and PFOS levels greater than the EPA’s new regulatory limit of 4 ppt. 

Water Treatment Efforts at Atwater, California

Most of Atwater’s water treatment efforts have focused on TCP removal. In 2020, the city completed a large 1,2,3-TCP Remediation Project that implemented updated groundwater treatment systems to remove TCP and bring levels below advisory limits. In terms of PFAS, remediation at Castle Air Force Base involved excavation of toxic chemicals. However, drinking water continues to show PFAS contamination.

Health Risks and Symptoms Linked to Drinking Water in Atwater, California

Exposure to PFAS-contaminated water in Atwater, California is associated with multiple serious health conditions that could qualify for a lawsuit, including: 

• Kidney cancer 
• Testicular cancer 
• Thyroid cancer
• Liver cancer 
• Hodgkin’s lymphoma 
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma 
• Male breast cancer 
• Prostate cancer 
• Thyroid disease 
• Ulcerative colitis 

Higher amounts and longer-term exposure can heighten the risk of developing such illnesses. Individuals should notify their healthcare provider of any potential or known exposure and maintain regular checkups to monitor for symptoms. Quick discovery can aid with treatment options and prognosis.

Eligibility Criteria for the Atwater, California Water Contamination Lawsuit

To qualify for an Atwater personal injury water contamination lawsuit, you typically must meet the following qualifications: 

• You were exposed to toxic Atwater water for at least six months during a time with proven contamination. 
• You were officially diagnosed with a related health condition such as kidney, liver, testicular, or thyroid cancer. Thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis, and other conditions may also qualify. 
• You have proof of your toxic exposure, diagnosis, and how the exposure is related to your diagnosis.

By setting up an initial consultation with an environmental attorney like those at King Law, you can confirm your eligibility and options for filing a lawsuit.

 Atwater, California Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

Settlement amounts for water contamination cases in Atwater can vary greatly, influenced by factors like the duration of exposure to the polluted water and the severity of the health issues involved. Typically, the stronger the connection between the contamination and the health problems, the higher the potential settlement.

In similar situations, settlements have ranged from $30,000 to $300,000, with the average being around $250,000. Those who have experienced more severe health issues or longer exposure times may be eligible for higher payouts, possibly reaching or exceeding a million dollars. Conversely, individuals with milder health problems or less compelling evidence might receive settlements in the range of $30,000 to $75,000. Given the complexity of these cases, it’s crucial to consult legal professionals to determine the potential compensation specific to your circumstances.

How to File an Atwater, California Water Contamination Lawsuit

While filing a water contamination lawsuit can be complex, specialized attorneys can help guide you through the entire process. This typically entails: 

1. Consult with a toxic tort lawyer: Schedule a consultation with an attorney who specializes in environmental law to ensure they can navigate the complexities of your case, represent you with confidence, and negotiate in your favor. 
2. Collect evidence: Work with your attorney to collect as much evidence as possible to strengthen your case. This could include utility bills, lease agreements, or employment records. You should also gather medical records that link your health issues, like cancer or thyroid problems, to the contaminated water. Environmental reports, public health notices, or government documents that confirm the presence of contaminants in Atwater’s water can also help bolster your claim. 
3. File your claim: Follow your attorney’s guidance as they navigate specific legal requirements and deadlines to maintain your eligibility for compensation. Your lawyer can file your claim on your behalf with the appropriate court and negotiate as needed.

Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, confirm your eligibility, and get you started if you decide to pursue a lawsuit. 

Evidence to Support Your Atwater Water Contamination Claim

Evidence can truly make or break your water contamination claim and have a direct impact on the amount of compensation you receive if your case is successful. Evidence to support your claim may include: 

• Medical records: Include diagnoses, treatment details, and doctor statements that link your health issues to the contaminated water.
• Proof of residence or employment: Collect utility bills, lease agreements, or work records that show you were in Atwater during the time of contamination.
• Environmental reports: Obtain documents that reveal contamination levels in Atwater’s water, such as public health notices or government reports.
• Expert opinions: Gather statements from medical and environmental experts who can support the connection between your exposure and health problems.
• Witness accounts: Get testimonies from other community members who have faced similar health issues, highlighting the broader impact of the contamination.

Rest assured that your attorney can help you obtain everything needed to establish and bolster your claim.

Statute of Limitations for Atwater, California Water Contamination Claims

Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial when filing a water contamination lawsuit, as it determines the timeframe within which you must take legal action to seek compensation. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to pursue any compensation. The time limit can differ based on the state and the specific details of the case.

Because of these varying deadlines, it’s essential for those impacted by water contamination to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you determine the correct filing deadlines and ensure that all necessary steps are completed on time. Seeking legal advice early on can protect your right to file a claim, giving you ample time to gather evidence and build a stronger case for a better chance of success.

Atwater, California Water Contamination Lawyers

At King Law, we specialize in representing clients in Atwater, CA, who are facing water contamination issues, particularly involving PFAS and other hazardous chemicals in the local water supply. Our team has extensive experience in environmental law and is fully prepared to manage the complexities of these cases. We assist you every step of the way, from evaluating the strength of your claim to gathering critical documentation and providing robust legal representation in court. We understand the serious impact that water contamination can have on your health and quality of life, and we are committed to helping you obtain the compensation you deserve.

At King Law, our priority is to support our clients throughout this challenging process, offering the legal expertise and guidance needed to build a strong case. If you’ve been affected by water contamination in Atwater, having experienced legal representation is essential to achieving justice and securing the compensation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Learn more about Atwater, California water contamination with answers to these frequently asked questions: