If you are a military veteran who served between 2003 and 2015 and used 3M’s Combat Arms earplugs and suffered hearing loss, you may be entitled to recover damages from a mass tort lawsuit.
Many veterans who used the defective earplugs have been diagnosed with hearing problems associated with the plugs. If this happened to you, you may be entitled to compensation for damages that can include:
- Reimbursement for related out-of-pocket costs
- Current and future medical costs
- Wages you have lost since you have been out of work due to your injury
- Pain and suffering
You should not have to suffer physically, financially, and emotionally due to the negligence of an irresponsible earplug manufacturer.
Your hearing damage may be the fault of the defective Combat Arms earplugs. Call the team of 3M mass tort lawyers in Babylon, NY at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. to see how we can help you hold 3M liable: (631) 600-0000.
The Defect in 3M’s Earplugs
The main feature of the Combat Arms earplugs was that they were double-ended. Each end performed a specific function. One end blocked out all sound while the other end would dampen sound but allow soldiers to hear commands and other necessary sounds. However, a large flange made it impossible to insert correctly into the ear. 3M knew of this problem and during testing, rolled back the flange to allow insertion into the ear. The manufacturer did not, however, provide a warning for consumers that they must roll back the flange for the earplugs to function as intended.
Injuries Some Military Users of 3M Defective Earplugs Suffered
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), tinnitus is the number one disability among veterans. Patients describe tinnitus as a buzzing sound or high-pitched whistling sound in the ears. A survey undertaken by the American Tinnitus Association found that 56 percent of people living with tinnitus-related conditions reported hearing loss.
Instead of protecting those who protect us, the 3M defective earplugs resulted in hearing loss and tinnitus. Some soldiers can no longer enjoy their favorite music or listen to their children’s laughter. Those who sacrificed so much for our country deserve better. If you find yourself experiencing hearing problems and you served between 2003 and 2015, you may have legal options.
Reach out to Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. at (631) 600-0000 today.
Legal Action Against 3M
A lawsuit filed by a whistleblower on behalf of the U.S. Government accused 3M of knowingly selling these defective earplugs to the military. The company allegedly falsified testing procedures and manipulated data regarding fittings.
The lawsuit further alleged the following:
- 3M knowingly manufactured and distributed substandard earplugs to the U.S. m
- 3M had knowledge that the earplugs did not maintain a tight enough seal, thereby allowing dangerous levels of sound to invade the wearer’s ears.
- 3M failed to warn users of the defect or to provide proper instructions for use.
Many U.S. veterans used the earplugs while stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. The servicemen and women depended upon the plugs as protection against the loud noise of heavy artillery and rockets.
No military veteran deserves defective protection in their arsenal of assigned equipment. 3M placed the U.S. military at risk of experiencing severe hearing damage. While 3M denies any wrongdoing, it agreed to a settlement of approximately $9.1 million.
After this lawsuit was settled, many U.S. veterans began taking legal action. There is a current multidistrict litigation concerning 3M in the Northern District of Florida. 3M mass tort lawyers in Babylon, NY can help you determine whether you might qualify for the MDL or if you might want to file an individual lawsuit.
What You Should Know About Mass Torts
A mass tort claim allows you to pursue damages in a group case while protecting your individual experience. Your circumstances may differ from others’ in the group; however, the connecting common factor is the defective earplugs.
As a plaintiff, you must prove how you were injured and how your life changed as a result of the defective product. That is where we can help. Our legal team understands how to handle the requirements of a mass tort case.
When you leave the pursuit of compensation to lawyers, you can better spend your time recovering. As 3M mass tort lawyers fighting for your interests, we will:
- Compile evidence supporting your claim
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- File all paperwork within relevant timelines
- Keep you aware of every update in your case
We want to handle to handle the little things that come with pursuing damages for your injuries while you focus on recovery.
See How Our 3M Mass Tort Lawyers in Babylon, NY Can Help You Today
Time is limited for joining the mass tort regarding the defective 3M combat earplugs. Call for free case evaluation now. The sooner we review the details of your case, the sooner we can explain your options.
While no amount of financial compensation can restore your hearing loss or correct your tinnitus, it can provide you with the means to access quality medical care and hearing devices. Costs associated with your hearing loss may include expensive hearing aids, visits to hearing specialists, and possible ear-related surgery.
At Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. we believe that contractors who knowingly place our military at risk for serious harm must be held accountable.
If you suffered permanent hearing damage or other related symptoms due to the use of defective earplugs, you deserve justice. While each case is different, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Call Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. now: (631) 600-0000. Allow us to serve you.
