Did You Develop Hearing Problems In The Military?
Thousands of veterans risk their lives every day to protect our country. During training exercises or deployment, they need the very best equipment to keep them safe. Unfortunately, unscrupulous companies sometimes sell faulty products to the military, which endangers the very veterans they are seeking to protect.
3M recently settled a lawsuit with the federal government for providing defective earplugs to veterans for years. However, this compensation will not do enough to help the veterans who were injured, so many are now filing their own individual lawsuits. If you developed hearing problems after your military service, you may be able to do the same. Nicolet Law Firm has won settlements for hundreds of clients throughout Wisconsin. We know what it takes to win. Our product liability accident lawyers can help you fight.
We offer free consultations. Call today at 1-855-NICOLET.
Table of Contents
Faulty Hearing Protection Knowingly Provided
The military bought thousands of pairs of 3M’s Combat Arms Earplugs and required soldiers to use them in Iraq and Afghanistan and during domestic training exercises. Worn one way, the earplugs were supposed to block all sound. Worn the other way, they were supposed to block loud explosions but allow soldiers to hear orders, conversations and other softer noises.
They didn’t work, however, and many veterans suffered hearing damage. Current lawsuits allege that 3M knew about the problems with its earplugs but sold them anyway.
What Hearing Problems Can Result?
Hundreds of veterans have reported hearing issues because of these defective earplugs. These issues include:
- Permanent hearing loss, sometimes requiring the use of hearing aids
- Permanent ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus
- Chronic pain in the ears
- Other ear problems requiring ongoing medical treatment
As more people come forward, even more hearing issues may be added to this list.
Am I Eligible To File A Claim?
The manufacturer may have known about this defect as early as 2000, yet it sold the earplugs until 2015. If you served in the military during that time and now have hearing problems that you did not have before, you could be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries.
The best way to determine your eligibility for a claim regarding this issue or any other type of injury case is to meet with one of our attorneys for a free consultation. After listening to your story, we will determine the best way to move forward.
We Can Help You Get The Justice You Deserve
Your service to our country should not be repaid with hearing loss. Our Personal injury accident lawyers stand ready to fight for your rights and will pursue full compensation for your injury. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help. Our legal team is available through our online contact form or by phone at 1-855-NICOLET.