Water Contamination in Alabama
What's wrong with our local water?
Water contamination by PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has been a significant concern in Decatur, Alabama, due to the proximity of industrial facilities that have used these chemicals for decades. PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment, have been linked to several health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system disorders. In Decatur, the contamination of the Tennessee River, which serves as a drinking water source for the area, has raised alarms among residents and environmental groups. Local industries, particularly those involved in the production of non-stick coatings, firefighting foams, and other products, have been identified as major contributors to PFAS contamination. Despite efforts to address the issue, recent studies have shown that PFAS levels in the water supply remain higher than the EPA’s recommended safety thresholds.
Water Contamination Lawsuits
Ongoing lawsuits regarding PFAS-contaminated water in Alabama are focused on holding chemical manufacturers and industrial facilities accountable for the widespread pollution affecting communities near Decatur. These legal actions, which involve both individual plaintiffs and class action suits, allege that companies like 3M and Daikin knowingly released harmful PFAS chemicals into the Tennessee River and local waterways, contaminating the drinking water supply. Residents from Decatur and nearby towns such as Hartselle, Moulton, and Trinity have reported health problems they believe are linked to prolonged exposure to PFAS. The lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses, as well as funding for long-term water filtration systems and environmental cleanup efforts.
What Health Effects Can Exposure to PFAS Cause?
These injuries vary in severity but are all associated with exposure to PFAS-contaminated water.
- Cancer: (kidney, testicular, liver, pancreatic)
- Liver Damage: (including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease)
- Thyroid Disease: (such as hypothyroidism)
- Immune System Disorders: (weakened immune response and increased susceptibility to infections)
- Reproductive and Developmental Issues: (infertility, pregnancy complications, developmental delays in children)
- High Cholesterol Levels: (leading to cardiovascular issues)
- Hormonal Imbalances: (disruption of endocrine function)
- Hypertension During Pregnancy: (preeclampsia)
- Reduced Vaccine Response: (diminished effectiveness of vaccines)
- Kidney Disease: (chronic kidney disease and other renal issues)
- Ulcerative Colitis: (chronic inflammatory bowel disease)
Why hire McCutcheon & Hamner to fight your PFAS injury case?
Where Can I Find Out More Information About PFAS-Contaminated Water?
Individuals concerned about PFAS-contaminated water can find valuable information through several reliable sources. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides comprehensive details about PFAS contamination, health risks, and water quality standards on its website. State and local environmental agencies, such as the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM), also offer region-specific updates and testing results for areas affected by PFAS pollution. Community organizations and environmental advocacy groups, like the Environmental Working Group (EWG), provide interactive maps and databases to help residents identify contamination sites near them. Additionally, local water authorities and health departments often release annual water quality reports, including PFAS levels, and can provide guidance on what actions to take if contamination is detected. For those seeking legal advice or potential compensation, law firms like McCutcheon & Hamner can also offer insights and resources related to ongoing PFAS lawsuits and remediation efforts.
