[NY] How do I sue for failure to warn of health risks?
I’m 30, diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis at 12. From 18–21 I volunteered as an EMT in Levittown, NY. Lived in NY, CT, and the last 18 years on Long Island. Are there active lawsuits involving UC that I might join? Also, some firms want me to sign up-front agreements (40% of recovery, “we already represent you”) before answering eligibility questions—is that standard?
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Got it. I’ll draft a thorough response now.
- About UC + PFAS cases: Yes—these typically proceed as mass-tort/multidistrict litigation against manufacturers/sellers of PFAS-containing products (notably AFFF firefighting foam). The theory is failure to warn about health risks, with UC among the conditions alleged in some filings (PHL § 12). Your EMT background near fire-training sites may be relevant exposure.
- Before you sign anything: Reputable firms provide a free consultation to screen eligibility (exposure history, medical records, timelines) before asking you to sign a retainer.
- Fees: Contingency fees around 33–40% are common, but terms should be clear and in writing, including costs, who pays expenses if there’s no recovery, and your right to terminate.
- What to gather: UC diagnosis history, treatment timeline, residence/work/school locations, any evidence of PFAS/AFFF presence (training schedules, local news, FOIL/FOIA records), and water-utility reports.
- Next steps: Speak with a mass-tort firm experienced in PFAS/AFFF and toxic-tort work in NY. Confirm they will (1) pre-screen eligibility, (2) explain fee/expense structure, and (3) help develop an exposure pathway specific to you.
A good firm should answer your eligibility questions first. If a firm insists you sign before any screening or won’t explain fees/expenses, consider that a red flag.
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I’m 30, diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis at 12. From 18–21 I volunteered as an EMT in Levittown, NY. Lived in NY, CT, and the last 18 years on Long Island. Are there active lawsuits involving UC that I might join? Also, some firms want me to sign up-front agreements (40% of recovery, “we already represent you”) before answering eligibility questions—is that standard?
Lexi, Chatbot
Have you consulted any firms or received preliminary advice?
No—I didn’t sign the forms.
Lexi, Chatbot
Do you know which “forever chemicals” you may have been exposed to as an EMT?
Possibly from firefighting “foam” used during fire-training near my EMT school, but I don’t know specifics.
Lexi, Chatbot
Anything else the lawyer should know?
Yes—please take your time researching; email follow-up is fine.
Jon
Thanks for reaching out. I’m here to help. You’re asking:
- Are there cases tying UC to environmental exposure/PFAS?
- Should eligibility be confirmed before signing a contingency agreement?
- And you’re currently on Long Island, NY—correct?
Yes—Long Island for the last 18 years.
Jon
Got it. I’ll draft a thorough response now.
- About UC + PFAS cases: Yes—these typically proceed as mass-tort/multidistrict litigation against manufacturers/sellers of PFAS-containing products (notably AFFF firefighting foam). The theory is failure to warn about health risks, with UC among the conditions alleged in some filings (PHL § 12). Your EMT background near fire-training sites may be relevant exposure.
- Before you sign anything: Reputable firms provide a free consultation to screen eligibility (exposure history, medical records, timelines) before asking you to sign a retainer.
- Fees: Contingency fees around 33–40% are common, but terms should be clear and in writing, including costs, who pays expenses if there’s no recovery, and your right to terminate.
- What to gather: UC diagnosis history, treatment timeline, residence/work/school locations, any evidence of PFAS/AFFF presence (training schedules, local news, FOIL/FOIA records), and water-utility reports.
- Next steps: Speak with a mass-tort firm experienced in PFAS/AFFF and toxic-tort work in NY. Confirm they will (1) pre-screen eligibility, (2) explain fee/expense structure, and (3) help develop an exposure pathway specific to you.
A good firm should answer your eligibility questions first. If a firm insists you sign before any screening or won’t explain fees/expenses, consider that a red flag.
Thank you—very helpful. Any lawyers in my area I should reach out to? Who should I say referred me?
Jon
You can choose any lawyer you prefer—no specific referral needed. If you want a starting point, look for NY firms with active PFAS/AFFF mass-tort dockets and toxic-tort experience. I’m glad the info helped!
Jon
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