Men and women serving in the military place themselves in dangerous situations to protect our rights and freedoms. They should be equipped with the best available protective gear. However, many service members were provided defective 3M earplugs that caused injuries.
At Marzzacco Niven & Associates, our attorneys have extensive experience helping injured victims seek compensation through product liability claims. Our top-rated attorneys have over 120 years of combined experience and have recovered tens of millions on behalf of victims in Pennsylvania.
Contact our office today at (717) 231-1640 to schedule a free consultation with a Harrisburg product liability lawyer.
How Marzzacco Niven & Associates Can Help Service Members File 3M Earplug Claims in Harrisburg, PA
Lawsuits against manufacturers for defective products are complex personal injury cases. When the government is involved, the situation can become even more complicated. Active service members and veterans deserve fair compensation for the injuries and damages resulting from the use of defective 3M Combat Arms earplugs.
When you choose Marzzacco Niven & Associates, our Harrisburg personal injury lawyers can:
- Investigate your case thoroughly.
- Assist you in navigating the complex claims process related to the 3M Earplug Multidistrict Litigation and settlement programs.
- Work to pursue fair compensation for hearing loss, tinnitus, and related disabilities caused by defective 3M earplugs.
- Offer guidance on gathering necessary military and medical evidence to establish the connection between hearing injuries and 3M’s defective products.
- Help build a strong case seeking compensation.
Our attorneys are recognized by numerous legal organizations nationwide, including Super Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers, and Best Lawyers. We have a proven track record of securing high-dollar settlements and achieving top court verdicts.
Contact us today for a complimentary legal consultation with an experienced Harrisburg product liability attorney. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case.
What Are the 3M Earplugs Lawsuits?
The 3M earplugs lawsuits involve thousands of U.S. military veterans and active-duty personnel who used 3M’s Combat Arms Version 2 earplugs between 2003 and 2015. These earplugs were designed to protect users from hearing damage caused by loud combat noises. However, the earplugs were defective.
The dual-ended earplugs were designed for easy insertion and effective noise protection. A design defect caused the earplugs to loosen, failing to provide adequate noise protection. This defect allowed dangerous noise levels to penetrate, resulting in hearing loss, tinnitus, and other injuries.
Internal testing by the manufacturer revealed these issues. Yet, the company allegedly falsified certification documents and failed to warn military users. A whistleblower lawsuit was filed under the False Claims Act in 2016. The lawsuit alleged that 3M knowingly provided defective earplugs to the U.S. military without disclosing the design flaws or proper usage instructions.
In 2018, 3M agreed to pay the U.S. Department of Justice $9.1 million to settle claims but did not admit wrongdoing.
Hearing Damage Associated with 3M Combat Earplugs
Military personnel who have used 3M Combat Arms earplugs have reported several serious conditions related to hearing loss and tinnitus. Many individuals who used the defective earplugs report experiencing chronic hearing loss due to repeated exposure to loud noise. Hearing loss is often permanent and significantly impacts their quality of life.
Chronic tinnitus has also been associated with 3M Combat Arms earplugs. Tinnitus can cause ringing in the ears. It can also cause buzzing, roaring, clicking, hissing, and humming sounds. The condition can lead to severe depression and other challenges.
Legal Rights for Pennsylvania Veterans and Service Members
Following the government settlement, numerous individual lawsuits were filed by veterans and service members who claimed hearing damage due to the defective earplugs. Unlike civilian workers, military members cannot pursue workers’ compensation for service-related injuries. Filing a lawsuit or joining the settlement program is often the sole avenue for compensation for military members.
Pennsylvania residents who used the defective 3M Combat Arms earplugs and suffered tinnitus or hearing loss as a result may have legal claims under product liability laws. Qualified veterans should consult our experienced Harrisburg personal injury attorneys for guidance on possible claims and ongoing settlement opportunities.
Compensation Available to Military Members Injured by 3M Earplugs
The financial and emotional impact of hearing loss can be overwhelming for affected individuals. If you’ve suffered tinnitus or hearing loss after using 3M earplugs, you may be entitled to considerable compensation for your damages.
3M earplugs lawsuits sought compensation for economic damages associated with the injuries suffered by plaintiffs.
These damages include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Assistive devices, including hearing aids
- Prescriptions and medications
In addition to financial damages, the lawsuits also sought compensation for the military members’ pain and suffering as well as other non-economic damages.
Non-economic damages can compensate for:
- Mental anguish
- Permanent impairment
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Diminished quality of life
There are deadlines for filing 3M earplug lawsuits. Missing the deadlines could prevent you from recovering the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys can help you determine if you have a claim and can protect your right to file a lawsuit for injuries caused by defective military earplugs.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Harrisburg Product Liability Attorney Today
Marzzacco Niven & Associates offers legal assistance to active military members and veterans who suffered injuries because of defective earplugs. Our Harrisburg product liability lawyers can help you seek fair compensation for hearing injuries.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options.