Lakewood Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Lakewood Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

In Lakewood, New Jersey, water contamination lawsuits are on the rise. These lawsuits claim that drinking water in Lakewood has been contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals” due to their inability to break down in the environment over time. They are also linked to an array of serious health conditions, from cancer and thyroid disease to ulcerative colitis. 

Many lawsuits are in progress, and as more individuals come forward, the number of water contamination lawsuits in Lakewood, New Jersey will continue to grow.

Lakewood, New Jersey Water Contamination Overview

The history of Lakewood, New Jersey dates as far back as the Revolutionary War. In the early 1800s, the area’s first blast-iron furnace company was formed, which later became known as the Bergen Iron Works. Later, industry evolved around the poultry and egg business as agriculture became the area’s biggest industry. 

Lakewood has a long industrial and agricultural history. Today, industrial parks in the area make up the second largest municipal industrial complex in the state. Unfortunately, industrial growth often goes hand in hand with environmental pollution, including water contamination due to PFAS. PFOA, a type of PFAS, has been detected in the Lakewood Township Municipal Utilities Water Authority, along with several other types of contaminants.

Lakewood, New Jersey Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

Since the 1970s, Lakewood, New Jersey has faced water contamination lawsuits. For instance, in 1977, Hess Oil Company was found to be leaking gasoline into the ground and was charged with cleaning up and removing over 18,000 gallons of gas.

Individuals exposed to PFAS contamination who develop serious health conditions may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. If you’ve been exposed to toxic water in Lakewood, New Jersey for at least six months and developed health issues such as certain types of cancer, contact King Law today to learn more about your rights to compensation that can help cover medical costs and other damages.

About Lakewood, New Jersey Water Contamination:

History of Water Contamination in Lakewood, New Jersey

Learn more about the history of water contamination in Lakewood, New Jersey:

• 2024: Lakewood Township closes on a loan with the NJ Water Bank to address excessive levels of PFOS in the drinking water, a project that will consist of building to Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) filter facilities at the LTMUA Treatment Plant. 
• 2024: Doctors warn that contaminated drinking water could be responsible for the rise in Legionnaires disease, a potentially deadly form of pneumonia, in children. 
• 2021: Lakewood tap water was found to have 13 contaminants, including PFAS, by The Environmental Working Group (EWG) that exceeded their Health Guidelines.
• 2020: Legislation is passed pushing water purveyors across the country to address the health concerns related to water contaminated with PFAS.
• 2018: New Jersey establishes an enforceable drinking water standard for a PFAS chemical, setting what is known as a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for PFAS, becoming the first state in the nation to do so. 
• 2017: The Water Quality Accountability Act is enacted to establish new requirements for purveyors of public water to improve the safety, reliability, and administrative oversight of water infrastructure.
• 2014: Water utilities across the state of New Jersey, including Lakewood Township, are cited for excessive contaminants in the drinking water.
• 1970s and 1980s: Several lawsuits are filed against area businesses charged with allowing hazardous chemicals, including PFAS, into groundwater.

Sources of Water Contamination in Lakewood, New Jersey

Some key sources of water contamination in Lakewood, New Jersey include:

By-products from industrial activities: PFAS are a primary cause of water contamination in Lakewood’s water supply, entering the water through industrial runoff and seeping in from landfills where consumer and industrial products utilizing these hazardous chemicals were discarded. 

Stormwater runoff and sewage treatment plants: Lakewood’s water supply could have toxic microbial contaminants like bacteria or viruses stemming from sewage treatment plants. Additionally, stormwater runoff can become polluted as it flows into local water supply, picking up hazardous materials along the way.

Agricultural activities: Pesticides and herbicides used for agricultural purposes could contaminate groundwater, along with inorganic contaminants such as salts and minerals.

Naturally-occurring contaminants: Mineral-based compounds such as arsenic and nitrate come from naturally-occurring chemicals found in minerals and rocks and can lead to a contaminated water supply.

Lakewood, New Jersey Water Contamination Map

Reference our Lakewood water contamination map to learn more about the areas where PFAS have been detected as well as areas where levels have exceeded safety standards. 

Contaminants Found in Lakewood, New Jersey Drinking Water

The drinking water in Lakewood, New Jersey has tested positive for the following contaminants:

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)

PFAS are persistent in the environment and become difficult to remove once they enter the water supply. These man made chemicals are found in a variety of consumer and industrial products like fire-fighting foams, non-stick cookware, coatings on food packaging materials, and water-resistant fabrics. 

Individuals exposed to PFAS have an increased risk for serious health conditions, such as several different types of cancer, a weakened immune system, hormonal disruption, thyroid disorders, and other concerns. Perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, was found in Lakewood tap water at levels 622 times above the EWG’s Health Guideline.

Haloacetic acids 

The water disinfection process involves a chlorine treatment that can result in by-products like haloacetic acids, which can post an increased risk for cancer and other health issues, like kidney and liver problems. In Lakewood drinking water, haloacetic acids HAA9 were found at levels 220 times above the EWG’s Health Guideline.

Arsenic

While arsenic appears naturally in soil and bedrock, it can also be found in groundwater from pesticides, herbicides and insecticides. Exposure to contaminated drinking water with high concentrations of arsenic can lead to health issues such as cancer, neurological issues, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes, and more. In Lakewood, the EWG detected arsenic at levels 40 times above their Health Guideline.

Chromium

Chromium can either occur naturally in mineral deposits in groundwater or could be due to industrial contamination. Individuals exposed to chromium can face liver and reproductive system damage, as well as an increased risk for cancer. In Lakewood, chromium levels were found at 2.8 times above the EWG’s Health Guideline.

Other contaminants

Several other contaminants have been found in Lakewood drinking water that present certain health risks such as various types of cancer, liver issues, fetal development issues, hypothyroidism and more. Some of the contaminants all detected above the EWG’s Health Guideline in Lakewood tap water include the following: 

• Bromodichloromethane
• Chloroform
• Chromium
• Trichloroacetic acid

Current Water Quality in Lakewood, New Jersey

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found several contaminants in Lakewood’s tap water exceeding their Health Guideline. However, drinking water in Lakewood was found to be in compliance with federal health-based drinking water standards. 

Water Treatment Efforts at Lakewood, New Jersey

Lakewood has been addressing water contamination issues by constructing upgrades and improvements to the New Hampshire Avenue and Shorrock Street Water Treatment Plants. Two Granular Activated Carbon facilities will be constructed to help provide water quality benefits, including removing PFAS in the drinking water for residents and businesses within the service area of Lakewood Municipal Utilities Authority.

Health Risks Linked to Drinking Water in Lakewood

Exposure to contaminants like PFAS and haloacetic acids in Lakewood, New Jersey drinking water may lead to an array of serious health conditions, including: 

• Testicular cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Lung cancer
• Skin cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Birth defects
• Low fertility levels 
• High blood pressure in pregnant women
• Kidney problems
• Cardiovascular disease
• Neurological issues
• Weakened immune system
• Hormonal or endocrine disorders
• Increased cholesterol levels

Long-term exposure to contaminated drinking water can affect even the healthiest individual. However, some individuals may be at higher risk than others for certain health conditions, such as the elderly, children or pregnant women. It’s important to schedule regular screenings to help manage any serious conditions and lower the risk of future health complications if you’ve been exposed to contaminated drinking water. If you are currently experiencing symptoms, contact a health provider right away.

Eligibility Criteria for the Lakewood, New Jersey Water Contamination Lawsuit

Individuals diagnosed with serious health conditions due to contaminated drinking water in Lakewood, New Jersey may be eligible for compensation through a PFAS lawsuit. 

The following criteria must be met to be eligible for a Lakewood water contamination lawsuit:

Health diagnoses

Individuals exposed to contaminated drinking water should obtain medical diagnosis for certain conditions such as: 

• Lung, bladder, kidney, thyroid, testicular, or prostate cancers
• Thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis and other related health concerns

Specific documentation

• Medical records verifying a diagnosis related to contamination exposure
• Proof of residence or employment in the affected area during the contamination period.
• Additional supporting documents such as utility bills, lease agreements, or other evidence of residency. 

Duration of exposure 

• Exposure to contaminated water for at least six months while living in Lakewood during the contamination period. 
• Individuals working in Lakewood should also have six months of exposure to contaminated water.

This criteria helps strengthen an individual’s legal case and establish compensation eligibility. Working with an experienced attorney, such as those at King Law, can help streamline the legal process.

Lakewood Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

The amount of the settlement for a water contamination lawsuit can vary based on several factors, such as:

Lower settlements

If the injuries are minor or there’s less proof of connection to drinking contaminated water in Lakewood, settlements might be valued between $30,000 to $75,000. Additionally, settlements are often lower than potential trial verdicts, but a settlement ensures payment where a trial could lead to no reward at all.

Higher settlements

Some cases involving extended duration of an active illness or significant exposure to contaminated water could result in higher compensation. For instance, more severe health conditions may result in settlements exceeding $300,000. Some exceptional cases could see settlements near or exceed one million dollars.

Average settlements

The average settlement is usually around $250,000. Most water contamination lawsuits have been settled between a range of $30,000 to $300,000, but some exceptional cases could see settlements near or exceed one million dollars.

If you’ve been affected by contaminated water in Lakewood, New Jersey, seek advice from legal experts to learn more about your options and potential for compensation. You may be eligible for a settlement that could help cover medical bills or lost wages.

How to File a Lakewood, New Jersey Water Contamination Lawsuit

Water contamination lawsuits in Lakewood, New Jersey involve multiple steps and may take up to several months to resolve. To start the process, follow these instructions: 

1. Initial consultation: Schedule a consultation with an attorney specializing in environmental law and water contamination cases. This meeting will assess the strength of your claim and outline the legal process.
2. Evidence collection: Compile essential documentation to support your case, including medical records, proof of residence or employment in the affected area, and environmental reports demonstrating contamination.
3. Legal filing: File your claim within New Jersey’s statute of limitations, typically two years from the date of diagnosis or when the injury was discovered. Your attorney will draft and file the necessary legal documents, including a formal complaint that outlines your allegations and the damages you’re seeking.
4. Pre-trial procedures: Engage in discovery, a process where both parties exchange relevant evidence. Additional information may be gathered through depositions and interrogatories to build the case.
5. Settlement negotiations: Your attorney will work to negotiate a settlement that fairly compensates you for damages. Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations before going to trial.
6. Trial: If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. Your attorney will present evidence and argue the case in front of a judge or jury, who will determine the final outcome and potential compensation.

Contact King Law today to set up a consultation for your Lakewood water contamination claim. King Law specializes in New Jersey law, and we can help navigate the unique aspects of Lakewood water contamination lawsuits.

Evidence to Support Your Lakewood Water Contamination Claim

To strengthen your odds of receiving fair compensation, it’s vital to provide strong evidence to support your claim in a Lakewood, New Jersey water contamination case. Gather and submit the following documentation to help build a stronger case:

• Medical records: Compile detailed records of any diagnoses, treatments, and health conditions linked to the water contamination. Include receipts for all related medical expenses.
• Proof of residence or employment: Provide utility bills, lease agreements, and work records that demonstrate your residence or employment in Lakewood during the contamination period.
• Environmental reports: Present government documents, public health notices, or other credible reports outlining the levels of contamination in Lakewood’s drinking water.
• Expert testimonies and statements from key witnesses: Include statements from medical or environmental professionals who can directly connect your health issues to exposure to contaminated water. Also consider providing testimonials from others in the community who experienced similar health effects due to the contaminated water.
• Personal accounts: Compose a detailed narrative describing your exposure to the contaminated water and how it has impacted your health and daily life.

Providing these critical pieces of evidence can significantly enhance your claim, improving the likelihood of a successful and fair outcome.

Statute of Limitations for Lakewood, New Jersey Water Contamination Claims

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those related to toxic exposure, is typically two years from the date of diagnosis in the state of New Jersey. This means individuals exposed to contaminated water have two years from the date of the exposure to file a lawsuit. If this deadline is missed, you could lose your right to seek compensation.

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your water contamination lawsuit is filed within the appropriate time limits. It will take some time to gather all the essential evidence to build and strengthen your claim, and deadlines will vary based on the specifics of your case, and gathering all the essential evidence to build and strengthen your water contamination case will take some time. An attorney experienced in environmental or personal injury law can guide you through all the required legal steps in a timely manner and help ensure you meet all the filing deadlines.

Lakewood Water Contamination Lawyers

If you’ve been impacted by water contamination in Lakewood, having experienced legal representation is essential to secure the compensation and justice you deserve.

King Law is committed to guiding our clients through every step of this challenging process. We can offer the legal expertise and guidance you need to build a compelling case. We specialize in water contamination cases in Lakewood, New Jersey, including those involving PFAS and other harmful chemicals in those local drinking water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Learn more about Lakewood water contamination with these frequently asked questions.