Newark Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Newark Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

Newark, New Jersey has a lengthy history of water contamination. From 2017 to 2019, the city’s tap water was severely polluted with lead, placing Newark among the U.S. cities with the worst water quality during that period.

More recently, PFAS water contamination lawsuits are being filed throughout Newark and the state of New Jersey. These lawsuits claim that drinking water in Newark 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.

Newark, New Jersey Water Contamination Overview

Newark, New Jersey lies on the banks of Passaic River and Newark Bay. It was founded in 1666 by Puritans migrating from Connecticut after purchasing the land from Delaware Indians. It officially became a city in 1836, as well as the epicenter of one of the nation’s major industrial hubs, becoming well known for leather tanning, jewelry and shoe manufacturing. This industrial boom attracted inventors like Thomas Edison, who created products like the ticker tape machine while living in Newark.

As industrialization and urbanization continued to rapidly develop during the late 1800s, Newark faced challenges with supplying fresh drinking water to the city. Those challenges continue today, with the lead contamination crisis that began around 2014 to more recently with tap water testing positive for PFAS, in serious violation of federal health-based drinking water standards.

Newark Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

In 2021, Newark and New Jersey city officially reached a settlement in the years-long lawsuit over drinking water contaminated with lead. Additionally, the City of Newark and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) are working continuously to address and replace lead service lines throughout the city.

Later, in 2023, Newark signed on to class-action lawsuits against companies responsible for contaminating the groundwater with PFAS, hoping to recover some of the costs associated with treating the drinking water.

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

About Newark, NJ Water Contamination:

History of Water Contamination in Newark, New Jersey

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

• 2023: The city of Newark releases the 2023 Water Quality Report that detailed source water assessments, potential sources of contamination, plant treatment processes and upgrades and more.
• November 2023: Newark joins class action lawsuits over PFAS contamination, alleging certain companies are responsible for contaminating groundwater with these forever chemicals. 
• 2021: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that tap water provided by the Newark Water Department was in serious violation of federal health-based drinking water standards, with 11 contaminants, including PFAS, exceeding their Health Guideline.
• 2020: Legislation is passed pushing water purveyors across the country to address the health concerns related to water contaminated with PFAS.
• 2019: The NJDEP orders five companies, including 3M and DuPont to pay for millions of dollars of cleanup of PFAS under the Spill Compensation and Control Act.
• August 2018: Officials discover lead contamination in Newark’s drinking water presents a serious public health concern and announces that water filters would be distributed to 19,000 homes in the city. It’s later discovered that the filters may not be working as effectively to remove the lead as anticipated.
• June 2018: The Newark Education Workers (NEW) Caucus and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) file a lawsuit against the city of Newark and state of New Jersey, alleging that their violations of the federal Safe Drinking Water Act have resulted in dangerous lead levels in Newark’s drinking water.
• 2017: Lead levels continue to be found at levels above the federal action level after the NJDEP required Newark to monitor lead in its drinking water more extensively.
• 2016: A study conducted by the United States Geological Survey found PFAS contaminants in the water were having a feminizing impact on male fish, a sign of endocrine disruption from the PFAS.
• 2016: Record-high levels of lead are found in the drinking water in several Newark public schools.

Sources of Water Contamination in Newark, New Jersey

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

1. Military activity: PFAS-based firefighting foam used at Dover Air Force Base contaminated the state’s groundwater, including in the city of Newark. This fire-fighting foam was also used at New Castle County Airport for training purposes. 
2. Industrial activities: Newark has a lengthy industrial history, and certain processes allowed hazardous chemicals to enter the water supply through the groundwater. 
3. Urban stormwater runoff: Stormwater runoff can become polluted with pesticides, herbicide and organic chemical contaminants as it flows into local water supply.
4. Aging infrastructure: Lead can enter Newark’s drinking water as it leaches from old lead pipes, which the city is in the process of replacing with copper pipes.

Newark Water Contamination Map

Reference our Newark 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 Newark Drinking Water

The drinking water in Newark, New Jersey has tested positive for the following contaminants, including several that exceed the EWG’s Health Guideline:

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)

PFAS are long-lasting chemicals that are known to contaminate groundwater. These man made chemicals help repel water and oil, are resistant to heat and chemical reactions, and they are found in a variety of consumer and industrial products like non-stick cookware, food wrappers, and even in some types of beauty products. 

PFASa are linked to an array of serious health conditions. Individuals exposed to PFAS have an increased risk for serious health conditions, such as several different types of cancer, high cholesterol, decreased fertility, a weakened immune system, thyroid disease, and other concerns. 

Lead

Lead is a naturally occurring, very soft and dense metal. Throughout the city of Newark, lead pipes were historically installed in the water systems. While lead is resistant to corrosion, it may leach out of the pipes, fittings and joints and cause a variety of health issues, including:

• Brain damage
• Cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure
• Joint and muscle pain
• Difficulty with memory or concentration
• Reproductive health problems

Haloacetic acids (HAA5 and HAA9)

Haloacetic acids can lead to an increased risk for cancer and other health issues, like kidney and liver problems. They are a by-product of the water disinfection process when it utilizes a chlorine treatment. In Newark drinking water, haloacetic acids HAA9 were found at levels 1,105 times above the EWG’s Health Guideline, while HAA5 were found at levels 488 times above the guideline.

Chloroform

Chloroform is also a by-product of the water disinfection process. Chloroform in drinking water has been linked to a number of health conditions, such as respiratory issues, hepatitis, damage to the central nervous system and cancer of the large intestine, rectum or bladder. In Newark drinking water, chloroform was found at levels 137 times above the EWG’s Health Guideline. 

Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)

Exposure to TTHMs in drinking water can cause an array of health effects, from bladder and colon cancers to reproductive problems and birth defects. They may also cause issues like dizziness, sleeplessness, and fatigue. TTHMs were found at 420 times above the EWG’s Health Guideline in Newark tap water. 

Other contaminants

Several other contaminants were detected above the EWG’s Health Guideline in Newark tap water that can present certain health risks, including various types of cancer, liver issues, fetal development issues, hypothyroidism and more. These contaminants include:

• Bromodichloromethane
• Dichloroacetic acid
• Dibromoacetic acid
• Chromium
• Radium
• Trichloroacetic acid

Current Water Quality in Newark, New Jersey

From April 2019 through March 2021, the Newark Water Department did not comply with health-based drinking standards, according to The Environmental Working Group (EWG). The EWG found several contaminants in Newark’s tap water exceeding their Health Guideline. While city officials claim the drinking water is safe to drink, residents are still encouraged to request free water testing kits from the Department of Water and Sewer Utilities for further peace of mind. 

Water Treatment Efforts at Newark, New Jersey

New Jersey was the first state in the country to set strict standards for the amount of PFAS allowed in drinking water. The NJDEP established health-based drinking water standards known as Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for PFAS, specifically for PFOA and PFOS. 

Additionally, the city of Newark has been working diligently to replace lead water service lines throughout the area and to date, has replaced over 23,000 lead service lines.

Health Risks and Symptoms Linked to Drinking Water at Newark, New Jersey

Individuals exposed to contaminants like PFAS and lead in Newark, New Jersey drinking water may experience a variety of serious health conditions, including: 

• Cancer such as testicular cancer, kidney cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, ovarian cancer and others
• Reproductive issues such as low fertility levels, birth defects, high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in pregnant women and more 
• Hormonal disruption or endocrine disorders 
• Kidney problems and changes in liver enzymes
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Cardiovascular disease and neurological issues
• Reduced ability of the body’s immune system to fight infections

While long-term exposure to contaminated drinking water in Newark, New Jersey can impact anyone, individuals such as the elderly, children or pregnant women may face increased risks for certain health conditions. 

If you’ve been exposed to contaminated drinking water in Newark and are experiencing any symptoms, it’s vital to schedule regular checkups with a health provider to ensure you are effectively managing any serious conditions and helping to lower your risk for future health complications.

Eligibility Criteria for the Newark, New Jersey Water Contamination Lawsuit

You might be entitled to compensation through a PFAS lawsuit if you have been diagnosed with serious health conditions due to contaminated drinking water in Newark, New Jersey. 

To qualify for a Newark water contamination lawsuit, the following eligibility requirements must be met:

Health diagnoses

First, affected individuals must be diagnosed with a health condition that can be linked to the contamination. These conditions may include various cancers, such as lung, bladder, kidney, thyroid, testicular, or prostate cancer. Other qualifying health concerns include thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis, and similar conditions associated with exposure to contaminated water in Newark, New Jersey.

Specific documentation

In addition to a medical diagnosis, individuals must provide specific documentation to support their claim. This includes medical records confirming the diagnosis is related to the contamination, as well as proof of residency or employment in Newark during the contamination period. Help establish eligibility further by including supporting documents, such as utility bills, lease agreements, or other forms of evidence showing residency.

Duration of exposure 

Lastly, the duration of exposure to the contaminated water must be at least six months. This applies to both individuals living in Newark during the contamination period and those who were employed in the area. 

Meeting these requirements help strengthen a legal case and increase the likelihood of compensation. Working with an experienced attorney, such as those at King Law, can simplify the legal process and improve the chances of a successful lawsuit.

Newark Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

The amount of the settlement for a water contamination lawsuit can vary based on several factors.

Minor injuries or less proof of the injuries being connected to contaminated drinking water in Newark may result in settlements between $30,000 to $75,000. However, cases that involve more significant exposure and more serious injuries over a longer duration of time could result in higher compensation of upwards of $300,000.

If the injuries are minor or there’s less proof of connection to drinking contaminated water in Newark, 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.

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. The average settlement is around $250,000. 

It’s important to seek advice from legal experts to learn more about your options and potential for compensation as soon as possible if you’ve been affected by contaminated water in Newark, New Jersey.

How to File a Newark Water Contamination Lawsuit

To file a water contamination lawsuit in Newark, New Jersey, follow these steps:  

1. Meet with an attorney: To help understand the legal process, schedule an initial consultation with an attorney specializing in environmental law and water contamination cases to help assess the strength of your claim.
2. Collect evidence: Gather the essential documents to support your case. This includes medical records, proof of residency or employment in the impacted area, and environmental reports demonstrating contamination.
3. File your claim: Submit your claim within New Jersey’s statute of limitations, which is typically two years from the date of diagnosis or when the injury was discovered. Your attorney will prepare and file the necessary legal documents

After these steps are completed, you can expect to participate in pre-trial procedures involving discovery, a process where all parties provide relevant evidence and information. As most cases are resolved through settlement negotiations rather than going to trial, your attorney will then work to negotiate a settlement that compensates you fairly for your injuries. 

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

Evidence to Support Your Newark Water Contamination Claim

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

• Medical records: Gather health records of any diagnoses, treatments, and illnesses that can be linked to the water contamination, including receipts for any medical expenses you have incurred throughout the duration.
• Proof of residence or employment: Provide utility bills, lease agreements, and work records proving you resided or worked in Newark during the contamination period.
• Environmental reports: Include government documents, environmental data, public health notices, or other credible reports that detail the contamination in Newark’s drinking water.
• Expert opinions and witness statements: Obtain testimony from medical or environmental professionals who can directly connect your health issues to exposure to Newark’s contaminated water. If others have been affected throughout the community, include their testimonials.
• Personal accounts: Create a document that describes exactly how the exposure to the contaminated water has impacted your daily life.

It is critical to include these pieces of evidence to help improve your chances of a favorable outcome in a Newark, New Jersey water contamination lawsuit.

Statute of Limitations for Newark, New Jersey Water Contamination Claims

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those related to toxic exposure, is typically two years from the date of diagnosis. It’s important to understand that this means if you’ve been exposed to contaminated water, you have two years from the date of the exposure to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to seek compensation.

Consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your water contamination lawsuit is filed within the required timeframe. Collecting the necessary evidence to build and support your case can take time, and the deadlines may vary depending on the specifics of your situation. An attorney with experience in environmental or personal injury law can guide you through the legal process and help ensure you meet all the filing deadlines.

Newark Water Contamination Lawyers

At King Law, we are dedicated to supporting our clients through every stage of this difficult process. With our legal expertise, we provide the guidance necessary to build a strong case. Our firm specializes in water contamination cases in Newark, New Jersey, including those involving PFAS and other hazardous chemicals found in the local drinking water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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