South Gate Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The South Gate Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

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South Gate, California is located just southeast of Los Angeles and has a population of around 91,000 people. It’s filled with small businesses, coffee shops, parks, and other suburban landmarks. Despite thriving steadily since the 1990s, South Gate continues to face water contamination issues. Learn more about the city’s history of toxic contamination and how victims are taking legal action. 

South Gate, California Water Contamination Overview

South Gate, California was founded in 1923 and originated as a farming community. In the early 20th century, it began to house manufacturing plants for workers seeking jobs during World War II. During the post-war industrial boom, South Gate was a hub for metal fabrication, auto parts production, and other industries. It has largely housed working-class families and has continued to expand thanks to its close proximity to Los Angeles. 

Not as industrial as it once was, South Gate still faces the impacts of industrial activity through water contamination. Improper disposal of chemicals and accidents such as spills and leaks have caused toxins to enter the groundwater and accumulate over time, impacting drinking water quality.

South Gate Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

The number of water contamination lawsuits filed across the United States continues to grow, especially as more and more victims become aware of toxic chemicals in their drinking water. PFAS lawsuits, in particular, have skyrocketed, especially for military veterans where the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam was very popular. In 2023 alone, more than $11 billion in settlements were paid out by chemical manufacturers. 

Individuals in South Gate may be able to file lawsuits after extensive PFAS contamination was discovered in drinking water. The EPA issued their first-ever enforceable regulations for PFAS in drinking water, and PFAS levels in South Gate have far exceeded the 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS, two types of PFAS. King Law is dedicated to representing individuals who’ve been negatively impacted by this wrongful exposure, seeking justice for those with severe diagnoses like testicular cancer or kidney cancer.

About South Gate, California Water Contamination:

History of Water Contamination in South Gate, California

Learn more about the history of South Gate water contamination: 

• January 2024: Multiple types of PFAS were detected in South Gate tap water ranging from 3.9 ppt to 26 ppt, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG). 
• 2023: The 2023 South Gate Consumer Confidence Report cited the presence of TCE and PCE in drinking water, both of which are linked to cancer. Seven types of PFAS were also detected at levels up to 33 ppt for PFOS. 
• 2021: The EWG Tap Water Database detected 37 total contaminants in South Gate water, 15 of which exceeded EWG Health Guidelines. 
• 2020: South Gate residents raised concerns about toxic drinking water contaminated with PCE and TCE, citing water discoloration and concerning well test results.
• 2019: PFOA levels reached 9.70 ppt in South Gate tap water with an average result of 5.67 ppt. Keep in mind: The EWG Health Guideline for PFOA is 0.007 ppt. PFOS levels reached 33 ppt with an EWG Health Guideline of 1 ppt. 
• 2014-2019: Each year, arsenic levels in South Gate tap water tested substantially higher than the EWG Health Guideline with ranges up to 2.8 ppb. 
• 2012: The Jervis B. Webb Co. site in South Gate was declared a Superfund site and added to the EPA’s National Priorities List (NPL) due to extensive TCE soil and groundwater contamination. The Southern Avenue Industrial Area became a Superfund site and was also added to the NPL the same year. 
• 2001: The Cooper Drum Company site in South Gate became a Superfund site due to high levels of soil and groundwater chemical contamination.
• 1980s-1990s: South Gate had to close down numerous wells, which was a substantial amount of its water supply, due to contamination with industrial chemicals, including PCE.

Sources of Water Contamination in South Gate

Some key sources of water contamination in South Gate, CA include: 

Industrial activity: Industrial activity at factories throughout the late 1900s contributed to much of South Gate’s groundwater contamination, particularly TCE and PCE. There are three current Superfund sites recognized for toxic contamination, including Cooper Drum, Jervis B. Webb, and Southern Industrial Area. Chemicals used for degreasing equipment entered the soil, contaminating groundwater that is a source of drinking water for South Gate residents. PFAS is also cited to come from industrial production of various consumer products as well as from firefighting foam used to protect against and put out fires. 

Natural occurrences: Some toxins derive from natural deposits, such as arsenic. Though naturally occurring, arsenic is a chemical that can cause a series of negative health effects. Arsenic can enter drinking water from natural erosion or disturbing deposits through mining, drilling, and other human activities. Heavy rainfall with substantial runoff can maximize the spread of arsenic into drinking water systems. 

Aging water infrastructures: Many pipes throughout South Gate are old and now facing erosion, cracks, and other damage. This can cause lead, iron, copper, and other toxic metals to enter the water system and impact drinking water quality for residents. In 2021, the city began a five-year project to begin replacing aging water pipes, which is still in progress.

South Gate, California Water Contamination Map

South Gate is one of several cities northeast of Los Angeles, CA that has drinking water with PFAS limits above EPA limits. The EPA has established an enforceable limit of 4 ppt for both PFOS and PFOA, two common types of PFAS. The South Gate Water Department water system has tested as high as 39 ppt for PFOS and 13 for ppt—around 10 times and 3 times the limits, respectively. 

Contaminants Found in South Gate, California Drinking Water

The main contaminants in South Gate, California drinking water include: 

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 

PFAS are a group of manmade chemicals that have been used in various products since the 1940s, including nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, firefighting foams, and industrial applications. These chemicals don’t break down in the environment, leading to widespread contamination of soil, water, and even the air. They also build up in the body over time, elevating health risks with long-term exposure. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to several serious health issues, including:

• Increased risk of certain cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer
• Weakened immune system response
• Developmental issues in children, including low birth weight
• Hormonal disruption, affecting thyroid function
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Liver and kidney damage

Arsenic 

Arsenic is a naturally occurring mineral that can seep into groundwater through the erosion of natural mineral deposits or as a result of industrial activities such as mining. In some areas, especially where there are high levels of naturally occurring arsenic, drinking water sources can become contaminated. Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water is highly toxic and has been linked to a variety of severe health conditions, such as:

• Increased risk of skin, lung, bladder, and kidney cancer
• Cardiovascular disease
• Neurological effects, including cognitive decline and memory issues
• Developmental problems in children
• Skin lesions and discoloration
• Impaired immune system function

Trichloroethylene (TCE) and Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)

TCE and PCE are industrial solvents commonly used for degreasing metal parts and during chemical production. Over time, improper disposal or leaks from industrial sites can lead to groundwater contamination, impacting drinking water supplies. TCE and PCE are both volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are highly toxic. Long-term exposure to these chemicals can lead to serious health problems, such as:

• Increased risk of cancer, particularly kidney, liver, and lung cancer
• Damage to the central nervous system
• Impaired immune system function
• Reproductive and developmental problems
• Liver and kidney toxicity
• Respiratory issues and chronic irritation of the lungs

Current Water Quality in South Gate, California

While many monitored chemicals in South Gate’s drinking water are below Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), recent PFAS test results are well above the 4 ppt limit. Furthermore, while many toxins are below the MCL, they exceed the EWG’s Health Guidelines for what experts deem safe for human health. Around 90,000 South Gate residents could currently be facing dangerous levels of PFAS, arsenic, and other toxins. 

Water Treatment Efforts at South Gate, California

Here are some efforts South Gate has made to maintain and improve water quality: 

• A five-year initiative to replace aging water pipes that could be contributing to contamination with heavy metals like lead
• Regular water system flushing 
• Taking “inventory” of all private plumbing systems to detect lead and copper issues 
• Regular testing for dangerous chemicals, radioactivity, bacteria, and other impurities to ensure accordance with federal laws 

Much more is needed to ensure safe drinking water for South Gate residents, especially as it pertains to PFAS.

Health Risks Connected to Drinking Water in South Gate, California

Long-term exposure to PFAS-contaminated water, such as in South Gate, can lead to a variety of serious health conditions. Research has found a strong correlation between PFAS exposure and kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, liver cancer, male breast cancer, prostate cancer, lymphoma, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis. 

If you know or suspect you’ve been exposed to PFAS in your drinking water (or other cancer-causing toxins like PCE and TCE), tell your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Regular checkups and screenings can aid with early diagnosis, potentially expanding your treatment options and improving your prognosis. You may also consider seeking legal counsel to explore your options for contamination litigation.

Eligibility Criteria for the South Gate Water Contamination Lawsuit

To pursue a personal injury lawsuit related to South Gate’s water contamination, individuals must meet certain criteria regarding their exposure duration and associated health conditions. Typically, this involves:

• Living or working in the affected area during the contamination period, with at least six months of exposure to the contaminated water.
• Having a confirmed diagnosis of health issues linked to toxic exposure, such as kidney, liver, testicular, or thyroid cancer, or thyroid disease. Other conditions, like ulcerative colitis, may also qualify.
• Providing key documentation, including medical records that verify the diagnosis and proof of residence or employment in the contaminated area during the relevant time.

These criteria are essential for building a strong case and determining eligibility for compensation. Consulting with attorneys experienced in environmental cases, such as those at King Law, is advisable to navigate the legal process, assess your claim, and set realistic expectations for the lawsuit’s outcome.

South Gate Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

Settlement amounts for South Gate water contamination cases can vary significantly, depending on factors such as the duration of exposure to the contaminated water and the severity of health issues. A stronger connection between the exposure and health conditions typically results in a higher settlement.

In similar cases, settlements have ranged from $30,000 to $300,000, with the average being around $250,000. Individuals with more severe health conditions or longer exposure may receive higher settlements, potentially nearing or exceeding a million dollars. Conversely, those with less severe conditions or weaker evidence may see settlements between $30,000 and $75,000. Due to the complexity of these cases, consulting legal experts is essential to better understand your potential compensation based on your circumstances.

How to File a South Gate, California Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing a water contamination lawsuit in South Gate, California, involves several key steps:

1. Gather important documents: Start by gathering proof that you lived or worked in South Gate during the contamination period, such as utility bills, lease agreements, or work records. You should also collect medical records showing that your health problems are linked to the contaminated water. To strengthen your case, seek environmental reports, public health notices, or government documents confirming the water contamination in South Gate. Experienced environmental attorneys, like those at King Law, can help with this. 
2. Consult with an experienced attorney: Speak with a lawyer who has experience handling toxic torts. At King Law, we offer free initial consultations to confirm your eligibility and provide more insight into the potential of your case to recover compensation. Don’t delay, as there are deadlines you must file to maintain your eligibility. 
3. File your lawsuit: Your attorney will help you file your case, if eligible, in the appropriate court. You may be offered a settlement or you may be advised to pursue a court verdict. While court verdicts could result in higher payouts, you do risk getting nothing and they can take much longer than settlements. 

If you’re ready to begin looking into your legal options, contact us today. 

Evidence to Support Your South Gate Water Contamination Claim

Evidence is crucial to building your case and pursuing the most successful outcome possible. Examples of evidence you may use to support your South Gate water contamination lawsuit 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 South Gate during the time of contamination.
• Environmental reports: Obtain documents that reveal contamination levels in South Gate’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.

Statute of Limitations for South Gate, California Water Contamination Claims

Understanding the statute of limitations is essential when filing a personal injury water contamination claim. It establishes a deadline for compensation eligibility. Missing this deadline can mean losing the right to pursue legal action. The timeframe can differ depending on the state and the specifics of the case, sometimes extending two to three years.

Because of these varying deadlines, it’s important  to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can help determine the correct filing deadlines and ensure all necessary steps are taken on time. Early legal consultation can safeguard your right to file a claim and give your legal team enough time to gather an appropriate amount of evidence to bolster your claim.

South Gate Water Contamination Lawyers

At King Law, we specialize in representing clients in South Gate, CA, facing water contamination issues, particularly those involving PFAS and other harmful chemicals found in local water supplies. Our team has extensive experience in environmental law, allowing us to navigate the complexities of these cases with confidence. We assist you at every stage, from evaluating the strength of your claim to collecting key documents and providing strong legal representation in court. We understand the serious effects water contamination can have on your health and well-being, and we are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

At King Law, we are dedicated to guiding 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 South Gate, having experienced legal representation can be crucial in obtaining justice and the compensation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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