Are you living with hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or other hearing issues after using 3M’s dual-ended combat arms earplugs? Although designed to protect your hearing during military service, studies have shown they’ve done just the opposite.
When you answered the call to serve our country, you trusted in the ear protection devices provided by 3M. But, in recent years, many veterans like yourself have come forward, reporting hearing damage that surpasses the typical age-related hearing loss.
If you are experiencing hearing loss and you’re used 3M military earplugs , you may have a claim.. Contact us today for a free case review.
Why are 3M Earplug Lawsuits Being Filed?
In 2016, Moldex-Metric Inc. filed suit against 3M under the False Claims Act. This lawsuit alleged that the 3M company and its predecessor, Aearo Technologies, Inc, deliberately sold defective equipment to the US military. Specifically, these defective earplugs would be too short to fit in an ear canal correctly and become loose over time.
This suit would argue that the dual-ended Combat Arms earplugs were the likely cause of significant hearing loss. The 3M company agreed to pay $9.1 million to resolve these allegations while never admitting fault for any permanent hearing loss suffered by veterans. This lawsuit would open the door for more earplug lawsuits.
Who Qualifies to File a 3M Earplug Lawsuit?
If you meet the following criteria, you could potentially join them in the ongoing 3M combat arms earplugs lawsuit:
- You served in any military branch during the period from 2003 to 2015.
- You utilized the dual-sided, government-issued, black and yellow Combat Arms earplugs.
- You now suffer from hearing loss, tinnitus, or other related symptoms.
At Onward Injury Law, our dedicated team is ready to assess your eligibility for the 3M combat arms earplugs lawsuit completely free of charge.
When Will the 3M Military Earplugs Lawsuit Be Settled?
The 3M Military Earplugs lawsuit continues to unfold. Cases have been consolidated in the Northern District of Florida under Judge M. Casey Rodgers. The latest updates indicate that the settlement negotiations are back on, following months of impasse and a failed attempt at bankruptcy mediation.
As of May 3, 2023, we learned that settlement talks have resumed and will be led by two highly experienced retired judges and a court-appointed mediator named Randi Ellis. These talks will cover the MDL class action and the thousands of earplug cases pending for non-direct military plaintiffs in Minnesota state court.
Additionally, on May 8, 2023, Judge Rodgers dismissed some cases for failure to comply with requests for information. If there is no motion to refile in these cases after June 5, 2023, they will be permanently dismissed.
The lawsuit has experienced varying degrees of success. Since 2021, 3M has been ordered to pay multi-million dollar fines to veterans who have suffered severe hearing loss due to defective combat earplugs. As recently as the summer of 2022, a Pensacola Federal Court awarded plaintiff veteran James Beal $77.5 million.
This is the highest to be awarded to date. It is a staggering sum, just enough to “inspire” settlement negotiations. Now is the time to put your case before a federal judge.
How a 3M Earplugs Lawyer Can Help
Our compassionate team of lawyers will listen to your story, assess the details of your case, and guide you through the legal process. We’ll fight tirelessly on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, pain, and suffering.
But it’s not just about the legal matters. We understand the emotional toll this situation can take, and we’ll be there to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let us help you navigate this challenging journey with compassion and determination. There is no obligation or cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The average settlement amount for 3M hearing loss cases can vary widely and is influenced by various factors such as:
- the extent of the individual’s injuries
- the impact on their quality of life
- the strength of the evidence linking the hearing loss to the use of 3M military earplugs
It is important to note that each case is unique, and settlements are typically determined on an individual basis, taking into account the specific circumstances of the plaintiff. Contact a mass torts attorney at Onward Injury Law to discuss your specific case.
The deadline for filing a 3M military earplugs lawsuit can vary depending on several factors, including the jurisdiction where the lawsuit is being filed and the specific laws governing the case. It is crucial to consult our attorneys to determine the applicable deadlines in your particular situation.
While it is possible that some 3M military earplugs lawsuits may proceed to court and require a trial, the majority of cases are often resolved through settlements outside of court. Many lawsuits involving defective products, such as the 3M military earplugs, reach settlements through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods.
These settlements can provide a quicker resolution and help avoid the time and expenses associated with a full trial. However, the specific circumstances of your case and the decisions made by all parties involved will determine whether or not your particular lawsuit proceeds to court. It is advisable to consult with your attorney to understand the potential outcomes and processes related to your specific case.