Content Reviewed By:
John Richmond, Co-Founding Member
- December 23, 2024
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a synthetic firefighting foam widely used on military bases, airports, and other facilities throughout the country. AFFF contains PFAS chemicals linked to serious health consequences, including several types of cancer.
Exposure to PFAS through AFFF or related groundwater contamination has prompted thousands of lawsuits. The skilled legal team at Richmond Vona has the experience and knowledge to help New Yorkers navigate PFAS/AFFF lawsuits. Contact us online or call (716) 500-5678 for a free consultation today.
PFAS/AFFF Claim Eligibility In New York
AFFF contains per-fluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS. These “forever chemicals” are incredibly resilient, breaking down very slowly and lingering indefinitely in the environment and body.
AFFF exposure is linked to an increased risk of developing cancer in the kidneys, testicles, thyroid, and other organs. Other health problems potentially connected to PFAS include pregnancy complications and developmental issues in children.
If you’ve been exposed to PFAS and are experiencing health issues as a result, seek medical attention immediately. If your loved one died due to PFAS exposure, you might be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim seeking justice, accountability, and compensation.
Workers likely to have been exposed to toxic PFAS/AFFF include:
- Active duty or retired military personnel
- Staff working or living on military bases
- Firefighters
- Industrial workers
- Airport workers
Countless New Yorkers may have been exposed to these dangerous chemicals. Even if you were exposed to AFFF in another state or no longer live in New York, our team can ensure you know your legal rights and options.
Are There Known PFAS/AFFF Contamination Sites in New York State?
PFAS contamination has been detected in drinking water across New York, including many military sites. For example, the ARNG Army Aviation Support Facility in Rochester and Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station north of Buffalo are suspected of being contaminated by toxic firefighting foam. Other New York military sites with known PFAS contamination include:
- Seneca Army Depot
- Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome
- Defense Fuel Support Point Verona
- Plattsburgh Air Force Base
- Fort Drum in Watertown
- Schenectady Airport
- Watervliet Arsenal
- Albany’s Department of Military and Naval Affairs HQ
- SSSG Frederick J. III Jr. Reserve Center
- Stewart International Airport
- West Point Military Reservation
- Hancock Field Air National Guard Base
- Gerry Reserve Center near Jamestown
Many other known contamination sites exist in New York and the surrounding region, particularly in New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Vermont. For more information, view this map of contamination sites.
The Most Common PFAS Chemicals
There are thousands of different PFAS chemicals, but perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are the most notable. These manmade chemicals were widely used in commercial products for their oil and water-resistant properties, including non-stick cookware, industrial manufacturing, and AFFF.
While PFOS is a potential cancer risk, PFOA is a known carcinogen strongly linked to testicular, kidney, and other cancers. The EPA has set legal limits on “safe amounts” of PFOA and PFOS in drinking water, the most common way people are exposed to the chemicals.
Richmond Vona’s Roots Are In Keeping New Yorkers Safe
Our firm has a long history of navigating the legal system to protect the health of New Yorkers. Founding partners John E. Richmond and Keith R. Vona started their legal careers handling asbestos and mesothelioma cases, which are related to product liability principles likely to arise in AFFF lawsuits.
Like asbestos, toxic AFFF was widely used for years before it became the subject of widespread legal action. While this is a newer area of litigation, our team has extensive experience handling product liability cases and is ready to take on your New York AFFF lawsuit.
With more than $175 million recovered in case results for our clients and decades of combined experience in personal injury law, we’re dedicated to fighting and winning for New Yorkers like you. We’ve worked with clients throughout New York and can travel to you if necessary.
New York PFAS/AFFF Claims FAQs
1. What Are PFAS and AFFF? How Are They Related to Each Other?
PFAS are manmade “forever chemicals” with many practical uses. AFFF is a firefighting foam that contains PFAS chemicals. PFAS has been linked to cancer and other serious health conditions. AFFF is a leading source of PFAS contamination.
2. Where Can I Find Information About Known PFAS/AFFF Exposure Sites?
This map of PFAS contamination sites provides information about each known site, including whether AFFF use is the suspected source of the contamination.
3. How Long Do I Have To File a PFAS/AFFF Claim in New York?
The New York product liability statute of limitations is normally three years after injury, but important exceptions exist, such as when an injury is discovered after exposure. It’s always best to seek legal help as soon as possible, as important evidence can be lost over time, and failing to file before the correct deadline will eliminate your legal right to seek compensation in court.
4. What Manufacturers Are Affected By The PFAS/AFFF Lawsuits?
Four manufacturers—3M, Dupont, Tyco Fire Products/Chemguard, and BASF—have finalized class action settlement agreements in the multi-district litigation (MDL) over public water contamination with AFFF.
Others have also been named in several suits. Contact our legal team today if you have more questions about the manufacturers involved.
5. My Loved One Passed Away. Can I Still File a PFAS/AFFF Claim?
You may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to recover justice, accountability, and compensation for the death of your loved one. Our compassionate attorneys can walk you through the legal process and handle all the details, giving you time to grieve and care for your family.
6. What Symptoms Should I Look Out For If I Have Been Exposed to PFAS/AFFF?
Cancer in the kidneys and testicles is linked to AFFF exposure. Be on the lookout for chronic pain or discomfort in the back, side, or groin, as well as bloody urine, fatigue, or other sudden health changes. If you experience any of these symptoms after being exposed to PFAS, seek medical help immediately.
7. I’m Not Located Near Richmond Vona’s Offices. Can You Still Help?
Absolutely. We handle AFFF lawsuits throughout New York and beyond. No matter the circumstances of your claim, we can ensure you know your full legal rights and options.
8. What’s The Latest News on the PFAS/AFFF Lawsuits?
Thousands of lawsuits targeting AFFF manufacturers are consolidated for federal multi-district litigation (MDL). Some manufacturers have already reached settlements, including a $730 million deal announced in October involving Kidde-Fenwal. More plaintiffs continue to join the MDL as the cases progress.
PFAS/AFFF Claims Are Difficult to Navigate. Let Us Help You Today.
The legal team at Richmond Vona is committed to defending the rights of New Yorkers, aggressively advocating for their best interests while giving each case the individualized attention it deserves. We have the skills and expertise to handle your New York PFAS claim. Contact us online or call (716) 500-5678 to schedule a free consultation.
"*" indicates required fields
This law firm goes above and beyond to fight for you. Their entire team treats you with respect and truly cares about your well-being. Look no further if you need a personal injury lawyer.
John Richmond and the team at Richmond Vona did an incredible job with my complicated personal injury case. They made sure no stone was unturned and got me the settlement I deserved for my situation. They treat you well, explain everything you need to know and more so you are always in the loop about the status of your case. John was easy to get in touch with anytime during the process and made signing paperwork easy and understandable. Their entire staff is professional and helpful throughout the process These guys are fair, trustworthy, and will stand up for you!
This firm’s attention to detail is second to none. It’s evident that they are true professionals and really care about their injured clients. This is the firm to call if you have been seriously injured due to someone else’s negligence.
