Millions In US Drinking Groundwater Contaminated With Forever Chemicals

United States Geological Survey Suggests Millions In United States Drinking Tainted Groundwater

MANHATTAN, NEW YORK (October 30, 2024) – A study by the United States Geological Survey revealed that millions of Americans may be drinking groundwater contaminated with forever chemicals.

The study revealed that as much as 20% of groundwater may have some level of toxic chemicals. This means that an estimated 71 and 95 million people are being exposed to contaminated water.

By their very nature, forever chemicals are difficult to break down. The USGS reached their conclusion by taking 1,200 groundwater samples across the country.

Florida and California have the most people whose public water could be contaminated.

Liability For Illnesses Caused By Forever Chemicals

Per- and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFAs), also known as ‘forever chemicals,’ are associated with many negative health outcomes. According to the National Kidney Foundation, “The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reviewed current peer-reviewed scientific studies and found that forever chemicals may cause: increased risk of prostate, testicular, and kidney cancer, decreased fertility Increased high blood pressure in pregnant people.” There are many potential causes of forever chemical groundwater contamination.

• Industrial discharge may leak into water supplies.
• Companies may burry chemicals into the ground in drums near water sources.
• A large portion of water contamination is a result of agricultural runoff.

There are a number of potential entities that could be held at fault for groundwater contamination. If a company fails to properly dispose of chemicals that seep into the ground, this could form the basis of a civil claim. Many different businesses deal with dangerous forever chemicals. This includes aerospace companies and even dry cleaners. It is often cheaper to improperly dispose of these chemicals. But these cost-cutting measures can have catastrophic consequences down the line. It is important that certain steps are taken after any instance of groundwater contamination.

• The source of the contamination should be determined.
• The extent of the contamination should be studied.
• Residents impacted by the contamination should seek medical support.

Many of the injuries associated with forever chemical exposure may not be immediately obvious. They tend to develop after gradual exposure over many years. In many circumstances, victims may not even realize that they’ve been exposed. It is important for victims of groundwater contamination to understand that they do have rights. They may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.

Getting Legal Help For Groundwater Contamination

We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. were deeply concerned to hear about this new study by the United States Geological Survey. It is our hope that steps are taken to limit the damage to all of those impacted. The evidence is very clear. Long-term exposure to forever chemicals is very dangerous and harmful.

Have you or someone that you care about been impacted by groundwater contamination? Our team of toxic tort attorneys is here to help you. We care deeply that victims of groundwater contamination are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.