AFFF Exposure Affecting Disability Claims and Long-Term Health Insurance for Firefighters
Long-term health insurance and disability claims presented more difficulties for firefighters exposed to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) because of PFAS-related diseases
Tuesday, March 4, 2025 - For many years, firefighters have battled high-intensity fires especially ones involving fuel or chemical spills using AFFF. Unfortunately, AFFF includes dangerous compounds called PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which have been connected to major health problems including cancer. More firefighters with long-term ailments are having trouble getting disability compensation and health insurance. Affected firefighters find it more difficult to get the coverage they require as insurance companies often examine claims about PFAS exposure. Many are now looking for legal assistance; some of them are using an AFFF cancer attorney or AFFF cancer lawsuit to fight for payback.
Rising health insurance costs are one major problem firefighters face. AFFF exposure carries known hazards, hence some insurers are charging more premiums or perhaps refusing coverage completely. For individuals currently managing major medical concerns, this strains their finances. While many cancer-stricken firefighters require considerable medical treatment, without appropriate insurance purchasing care becomes a significant obstacle. While some rely on state or federal programs, these choices could not offer complete coverage. Additionally challenging to handle are disability claims connected to AFFF exposure. Many firefighters who are unable to work due to PFAS-related illnesses battle to have their disability benefits authorized. For retired firemen especially, insurance companies sometimes want thorough medical records and proof of exposure, which can be challenging to gather. Certain claims are denied outright or delayed for months, leaving impacted people without financial help.
Another issue is several diseases connected to AFFF exposure develop years after first contact with the foam. This delayed start makes it more difficult for firemen to show that their health problems directly relate to their employment. Insurers could contend that other factors caused the sickness, therefore negating claims even in cases of apparent, immediate symptoms. Years of exposure decades ago now cause issues for firefighters who acquire malignancies and other long-term illnesses. Legal conflicts regarding AFFF exposure are mounting as numerous firefighters act against manufacturers and government entities. While some cases seek modifications to insurance policies to provide better coverage for people impacted, others seek medical expense and lost income recovery. Though they can take years to settle, these cases are increasingly important for firefighters trying to collect the compensation they are due.
Aware of AFFF-related health hazards growing, some companies are advocating policy reforms to guarantee better coverage for impacted employees. Still, progress is gradual, and many are left bearing financial and physical weight on their own. Firefighters who have come into contact with AFFF could still have difficulties with insurance and disability claims until more clear policies are developed. For many, seeking legal advice has become a required step; an AFFF cancer attorney helps people negotiate the complexity of bringing an AFFF cancer lawsuit to ensure compensation and benefits.
OnderLaw, LLC and The Overholt Law Firm, PC -