Atascadero Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Atascadero Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

Atascadero was founded in 1913 by E.G. Lewis with a goal of blending urban and rural living. The town grew slowly, and today is a vibrant city with small-town charm that welcomes tourists and supports its residents. However, it has been susceptible to contamination from industrialization, agricultural activity, and military activity. Learn more about how contamination has affected residents and sparked a flurry of legal activity. 

Atascadero, California Water Contamination Overview

Atascadero residents continue to struggle with contaminated drinking water. PFAS and arsenic are two of the largest contaminants of concern, among others. Thousands of individuals across the country are now filing lawsuits against chemical manufacturers as they suffer from illnesses like kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and thyroid cancer.

Atascadero Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

The Atascadero Mutual Water Company (AWMC) has taken legal action against three chemical manufacturers after discovering PFAS in drinking water wells. AWMC aims to hold them accountable for putting the public and environment at risk, contaminating water throughout Atascadero. 

Individuals have also taken legal action across the United States, including in California, after developing serious health problems like cancer from toxic PFAS exposure. King Law is dedicated to representing individuals who have been impacted by wrongful exposure. With the right qualifications, we can help you recover compensation to help with lost wages, medical bills, and other damages.

About Atascadero, California Water Contamination:

History of Water Contamination in Atascadero, California

Learn more about the history of Atascadero water contamination: 

• 2023-2024: Atascadero continues to grapple with high levels of multiple types of PFAS in drinking water, which is apparent in recent water quality reports. 
• October 2021: Atascadero Mutual Water Company (AMWC) sued 3M Co., DuPont, and Chemours Co. for contaminating drinking water wells with PFAS. The water utility got permission to remedy the issue by mixing contaminated water with uncontaminated water to dilute the amount of PFAS. 
• December 2019: The California State Water Board directed AMWC to sample five main production wells for PFAS. Two types of PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) were found in all five wells at levels ranging from 3.5 ppt to 39 ppt.
• 2015-2016: Levels of arsenic were detected in Atascadero tap water 575-600 times higher than the EWG Health Guidelines.

Sources of Water Contamination in Atascadero, California

There are a few notable sources of water contamination in Atascadero, CA, including: 

• Compromised sewage and septic systems
• Urban stormwater runoff 
• Industrial and domestic wastewater discharges 
• Oil and gas production 
• Mining
• Farming and other agricultural activity
• Industrial processes 
• Military activity

This includes contamination with microbial contaminants, inorganic contaminants, pesticides, herbicides, organic chemical contaminants, and radioactive contaminants. For PFAS, military activity is one of (if not the) largest sources of contamination from the use of firefighting foam.

Atascadero, California Water Contamination Map

Our Atascadero water contamination map shows key areas where contaminated water has been a concern, particularly when it comes to PFAS. There are areas where PFAS has been detected below health advisory limits as well as above. Keep in mind that these chemicals do not break down and build up over time, so even in small amounts, they can pose a serious risk to human health. Some key water systems with elevated levels of PFAS include: 

• Atascadero Mutual Water Company: 40 ppt PFOS (2018-2024), 28 ppt PFOA (2013-2024)
• Atascadero State Hospital: 33 ppt PFOS (2023) 
• Noll Properties: 100 ppt PFOS (2019-2024), 150 ppt PFOA (2019-2024) 

The new enforceable limits set by the EPA are 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS. These limits are around 10-38 times some detected maximum levels.

Contaminants Found in Atascadero Drinking Water

The main contaminants in Atascadero, California drinking water include: 

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 

PFAS contamination is an ongoing issue in Atascadero, California. These man-made chemicals, commonly used in products like firefighting foam, remain in the environment and accumulate in the human body, which is why they’re often referred to as “forever chemicals.” In Atascadero, the presence of PFAS in groundwater has sparked concerns about the potential health consequences for the local population.

The health risks associated with PFAS exposure are significant, as these substances gradually build up in the body. Possible health effects include:

• Increased risk of cancers, especially kidney and testicular cancer
• Liver damage
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Impaired immune system
• Pregnancy-related complications, such as high blood pressure and low birth weight

PFAS levels in Atascadero have previously fallen below the EPA’s interim health advisory of 70 ppt. However, the EPA has recently established enforceable limits of 4 ppt for PFOS and PFOS, putting many wells above this limit and escalating health concerns. 

Arsenic 

Arsenic is another contaminant of concern for Atascadero drinking water. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can enter soil and groundwater from drilling, erosion, and other forms of disruption. At elevated levels or after prolonged exposure, arsenic can lead to: 

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

A 2021 Tap Water Database Update from EWG found arsenic groundwater levels at 63x the EWG Health Guideline. 

Other Contaminants

There are many other contaminants that have exceeded health guidelines over the past few years in Atascadero drinking water, including: 

• Bromodichloromethane
• Bromoform
• Chloroform
• Chromium
• Dibromoacetic acid
• Dibromochloromethane
• Dichloroacetic acid
• Haloacetic acids (HAA5 and HAA9)
• Nitrate 
• Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
• Trichloroacetic acid 
• Uranium

Many of these toxins are connected to an increased risk of cancer, especially with long-term exposure.

Current Water Quality in Atascadero, California

Recent water quality reports indicate no exceedances of regulated substances. However, PFAS was detected at levels above the EPA’s current enforceable limit. The following types of PFAS were detected in Atascadero’s 2023 Annual Water Quality Report: 

• PFBS ranging up to 13 ppt 
• PFHxS ranging up to 26 ppt 
• PFHxA ranging up to 8.3 ppt 
• PFNA ranging up to 5.9 ppt 
• PFOS ranging up to 31 ppt 
• PFOA ranging up to 17 ppt 

Water Treatment Efforts at Atascadero, California

Atascadero continues to conduct annual water quality reports and monitor for toxins like PFAS. When high levels of PFAS have been detected, Atascadero has sought to mix contaminated water with clean water to dilute PFAS levels. There are also goals to develop PFAS water treatment facilities. However, exposure has occurred for decades.

Health Risks Linked to Drinking Water in Atascadero

Exposure to water contaminated with PFAS is related to a wide range of serious health conditions. Long-term exposure poses a higher risk as these chemicals build up in the body over time. Studies have found a strong correlation between extensive PFAS exposure and the development of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, liver cancer, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis. Studies have also identified elevated risk of male breast cancer, prostate cancer, and lymphoma.

If you know or suspect that you’ve been exposed to PFAS through drinking water, let your healthcare provider know as soon as possible. Participate in any recommended screenings and maintain regular checkups to catch any symptoms as soon as possible to begin treatment. In many cases, early detection can help improve your prognosis and open up more treatment options.

Eligibility Criteria for the Atascadero, California Water Contamination Lawsuit

To qualify for a personal injury lawsuit related to Atascadero’s water contamination, there are certain circumstances that must be met, such as:

• You resided or worked in an area with toxic water exposure for at least six months.
• You have an official diagnosis related to your exposure, such as kidney cancer, liver cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, thyroid disease, or ulcerative colitis.
• You have proof of your exposure, illness, and relationship between the toxic exposure and diagnosis. 

Consult with an attorney to confirm your eligibility. Attorneys experienced in toxic torts can help you collect evidence and build the strongest case possible.

Atascadero Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

Settlement amounts for Atascadero water contamination cases can differ greatly based on factors like how long a person was exposed to the contaminated water and the seriousness of their health issues. The stronger the connection between the exposure and the health problems, the higher the possible settlement.

In similar cases, settlements have ranged from $30,000 to $300,000, with an average of about $250,000. Those with more serious health problems or longer exposure may receive higher amounts, possibly close to or over a million dollars. On the other hand, people with less severe issues or weaker evidence may get settlements between $30,000 and $75,000. Because these cases can be complex, it’s important to talk to legal experts to understand what compensation you might be eligible for based on your specific situation. Don’t delay, since there are timelines by which you must file.

How to File a Atascadero, California Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing a water contamination lawsuit in Atascadero, California typically involves:

1. Collect evidence that shows you lived or worked in Atascadero during the time of contamination. This could include utility bills, lease agreements, or employment records. You should also gather medical records that link your health issues to the contaminated water. This can be substantiated by environmental reports, public health notices, or government documents that confirm the presence of contaminants in Atascadero’s water. Rest assured, an experienced attorney can help. 
2. Reach out to an attorney experienced in environmental law, such as those at King Law. We will provide you with an initial consultation to review the details of your case, confirm your eligibility, and guide you through the next steps. We will help you build a strong case and file it with the appropriate court, representing you and negotiating on your behalf as needed. 
3. Be aware of state laws as you file your lawsuit. There are deadlines by which you must file and depending on the specifics of your case, there could be other restrictions you need to be aware of. By utilizing a reliable attorney, you can rest assured that an expert has your back.

If you’re ready to discover your legal options after suffering from water contamination, reach out to us today to set up an initial discussion. 

Evidence to Support Your Atascadero Water Contamination Claim

Atascadero water contamination claims require evidence to build a strong case. This can 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 Atascadero during the time of contamination.
• Environmental reports: Obtain documents that reveal contamination levels in Atascadero’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. 

Collecting as many details as possible about your exposure and related suffering can have a direct impact on the success of your case and the amount of compensation you receive.

Statute of Limitations for Atascadero Water Contamination Claims

To file a personal injury claim, you must follow the statute of limitations. This is a deadline by which you must file based on the date of your diagnosis or injury. This deadline varies by state, type of claim, and unique details of your case. If you miss the deadline to file, you could be ineligible for any type of compensation. 

To help ensure your eligibility, contact a lawyer as soon as possible to initiate the legal process. And, select a lawyer you can rely on to understand and abide by strict deadlines. The sooner you reach out, the better, as it can give your attorney more time to build the strongest case possible.

Atascadero, California Water Contamination Lawyers

At King Law, we are dedicated to serving clients in Atascadero, CA, who are facing water contamination challenges, particularly those related to PFAS and other hazardous chemicals in the local water supply. Our team, with extensive experience in environmental law, is fully prepared to navigate the complexities of these cases. We assist you at every stage, from evaluating the strength of your claim to gathering critical documentation and providing robust legal representation in court. We understand the serious effects 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 goal is to guide our clients through this challenging process, offering the legal expertise and support necessary to build a strong case. If you’ve been affected by water contamination in Atascadero, having experienced legal representation is essential for achieving justice and securing the compensation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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