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A federal jury awarded two U.S. Army veterans $110 million in a lawsuit against 3M, finding in favor of Plaintiffs allegations that the dual-ended Combat Arms earplugs caused them hearing damage, as reported by The New York Times.
Veterans Hit 3M with Flurry of Lawsuits
The wave of 3M earplug lawsuits has turned out to be more like a tsunami. Per the Times, it has become one of the largest mass torts in the history of the United States. Almost 300,000 service members and civilians have taken legal action against 3M. Each has alleged some form of hearing damage.
For instance, the two U.S. Army veterans in the $110 million case both experienced hearing loss and tinnitus. Both had been supplied the 3M Combat Arms earplugs for years, first in training and then throughout their deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. One veteran served for 21 years; and, the other served for 20 years.
The landmark $110 million jury verdict was returned on January 27, 2022. To date, nine plaintiffs have received jury verdicts out of 10 trials. 3M has successfully defended only four cases. Plaintiff recoveries in these previous suits ranged from $1.7 million to $22.5 million, with total compensation awarded over $160,000,000 to date.
Nevertheless, 3M continues to maintain that the CAEv2 earplugs were effective and safe for use. 3M reported to the Times that it will appeal the verdicts..
Advocating for Injured Veterans and Service Members
Wilson Law, P.A. is proud to represent current and former servicemembers injured because of 3M’s negligent conduct. Attorney Kimberly Wilson White was appointed as the sole North Carolina member of the 3M Combat Arms earplug litigation leadership team. Federal judges chose her for this position out of over 200 applicants, in part, due to her vast experience in representing individuals injured by defective products; and, commitment to seeking justice on behalf of individuals wronged by big corporations.
No corporation should be able to get away with taking advantage of our troops. We’re here to make sure 3M is brought to justice. If you have suffered hearing damage, reach out to our Raleigh law firm online or at (919) 800-0919 for a free consultation. We are honored to fight for those injured across the state.