A major chemical manufacturer has agreed to pay $27 million to settle a nearly decade-long lawsuit over water contamination in Hoosick Falls, New York. The settlement was announced just as the case was headed to trial in federal court, bringing the total recovery in the class action lawsuit to more than $90 million since it was filed in 2016.
The contamination case involves perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a harmful "forever chemical" that contaminated the village's drinking water supply. Located northwest of Albany, Hoosick Falls residents filed the lawsuit after their water became contaminated with PFOA from a local Teflon fabric coating facility. The settlement must still be approved by a federal judge and includes an additional $6 million for medical monitoring programs for exposed residents. You can read more about this case in the original news report.
Common Causes of Water Contamination Cases
Water contamination incidents can occur for various reasons, and understanding these causes helps communities protect themselves:
- Industrial discharge and improper waste disposal - Manufacturing facilities may release harmful chemicals into water systems
- Inadequate environmental safety protocols - Companies may fail to implement proper containment measures
- Defective equipment or infrastructure - Faulty pipes, storage tanks, or treatment systems can leak contaminants
- Negligent monitoring and testing - Failure to regularly test water quality or respond to contamination warnings
- Improper handling of hazardous materials - Mismanagement of toxic substances during manufacturing processes
- Lack of regulatory compliance - Companies may violate environmental protection standards
- Aging infrastructure - Deteriorating water systems can allow contamination to spread
- Inadequate cleanup and remediation efforts - Delayed or insufficient response to known contamination
When water contamination occurs due to corporate negligence or environmental violations, affected communities and individuals may be entitled to legal compensation for their damages and ongoing health concerns.
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims in Upstate New York Water Contamination Cases
Water contamination cases like the one in Hoosick Falls can lead to serious personal injury and wrongful death claims. PFOA exposure has been linked to kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and other serious health conditions. When communities are exposed to toxic chemicals through their drinking water, residents may develop long-term health problems that require extensive medical treatment and ongoing care.
Potential liable parties in water contamination cases may include chemical manufacturers, industrial facilities, property owners, equipment manufacturers, and companies responsible for waste disposal. Affected individuals and families may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, and in cases of wrongful death, funeral expenses and loss of companionship. Our firm has successfully handled complex environmental cases and understands the unique challenges these cases present.
Damages and Compensation in Environmental Contamination Cases
Victims of water contamination may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on their specific circumstances:
Economic Damages include medical bills, prescription costs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and property damage. These damages have clear monetary values and can be calculated based on actual expenses and lost income.
Non-Economic Damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other quality-of-life impacts. These damages acknowledge that contamination exposure can cause significant physical and psychological harm beyond financial losses.
Future Losses may include ongoing medical monitoring, future treatment costs, and long-term care needs. Given that PFOA and similar chemicals are known as "forever chemicals," victims may require lifelong medical surveillance.
Punitive Damages may be available in cases involving particularly egregious corporate conduct or willful disregard for public safety. These damages serve to punish wrongdoers and deter similar conduct in the future.
Compensation calculations consider medical evidence, expert testimony, employment records, and the severity of health impacts. The purpose of compensation is to help victims rebuild their lives, hold responsible parties accountable, and prevent future environmental disasters. If you've been affected by water contamination, contact our experienced legal team to discuss your case and learn about your rights under New York law.
Have you been affected by water contamination or environmental exposure in your community?
CONTACT USOur Recent Case Results
Settlement
Jury Verdict
Settlement
Settlement
Why Choose Porter Law Group?
The Porter Law Group has extensive experience handling complex environmental contamination cases throughout New York State. Our seasoned trial lawyers understand the unique challenges of water contamination lawsuits and have the resources necessary to take on major corporations and their insurance companies. We've achieved significant results for clients in environmental cases and are committed to fighting for the compensation our clients deserve.
Our firm provides personalized attention with a statewide reach, combining the resources of a large firm with the personal touch of a hometown practice. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. Our compassionate legal team understands the stress and uncertainty that comes with environmental exposure cases, and we're here to guide you through every step of the legal process.
Contact Porter Law Group for Your Water Contamination Case
If you or your family have been affected by water contamination or environmental exposure, don't wait to seek legal help. Environmental contamination cases have strict deadlines, and early action is crucial for preserving evidence and protecting your rights. Contact us today at 833-PORTER9 for a free consultation, or fill out our online contact form. We serve clients across all of New York State and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com to schedule your free consultation. Time may be limited for filing your claim, so reach out today to learn how we can help you through this difficult time.
