Filing a claim after losing a family member to AFFF exposure

Military veterans and firefighters face some of the highest risks of exposure to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). They encounter this foam in firefighting facilities, airport hangars, and hundreds of U.S. military bases. With constant exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the foam, they face a higher risk of developing serious illnesses, especially different types of cancers.

AFFF exposure increases the risk of developing serious illnesses

Toxic exposure to chemicals like PFAS increases the risk of developing certain illnesses and dcertain types of cancers In 2023, around 72% of firefighter line-of-duty deaths were due to occupational cancer. Military firefighters also face significant risks. About 1 in 9 veterans will develop a cancer at some point in life, far higher chances than in the general population.

Military veterans and firefighters can file AFFF claims after being diagnosed with any medical condition associated with AFFF. If your loved one passed away due to one of the following, you may be eligible to file a claim on their behalf. The AFFF-related conditions include:

Our toxic exposure attorneys at the ELG Law can guide you in establishing a claim and preparing the correct documents. We can take care of the legal process, allowing you to have time and peace of mind to grieve your loved one.

Claim Application

How to file an AFFF claim as a surviving family member

To be eligible to file a claim on your loved one's behalf, you must meet the following requirements and be able to gather the following documents:

You are a surviving spouse, child, or dependent of a military firefighter or a civilian firefighter who passed away from a disease caused by AFFF exposure.
You can obtain (or you already have) the military or employment records showing their history of exposure.
You can obtain (or you already have) medical records that show your loved one has been diagnosed with a medical condition associated with AFFF exposure.
You have the death certificate that shows that the deceased passed away because of the medical condition linked to AFFF exposure.

If you are filing on behalf of a civilian firefighter, our attorneys at ELG Law can help you file an AFFF claim. We can fight for compensation, which can help recover medical costs, settle unpaid bills, and cover funeral costs.

If you are a surviving family member of a veteran firefighter, you may be eligible for VA benefits as well, in addition to the AFFF claim. Some of the benefits and compensation you may receive from the VA are:

healthcare benefits
home loan programs or financial counseling
education and training
burial benefits
survivor pension
dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC)

Claim Application

ELG Law assists surviving family members of AFFF exposure victims

For over 35 years, the Environment Litigation Group has helped surviving family members file claims on behalf of their loved ones. We know that these cases must be handled with diligence and compassion. Our attorneys are ready to help you obtain financial compensation and seek justice for our firefighters who faced health risks from these chemicals while dedicating their lives to military or civilian service.

Claim Application