Environmental contamination lawsuits arise when dangerous substances pollute land, water, or air and cause harm to people, property, or communities. These cases are often complex, involving multiple defendants, long-term exposure, and significant cleanup costs. Understanding the most common types of environmental contamination claims can help affected individuals, property owners, and municipalities recognize when legal action may be necessary.
At Stag Liuzza, our attorneys focus on high-stakes environmental litigation involving widespread contamination and long-term health or property damage.
Groundwater Contamination Lawsuits
Groundwater contamination is one of the most common and serious forms of environmental pollution. Harmful chemicals can migrate underground and affect drinking water supplies for years before the problem is discovered.
Common sources include:
- Industrial waste disposal
- Oil and gas operations
- Chemical manufacturing facilities
- Leaking underground storage tanks
- Landfills and waste pits
Groundwater contamination cases often involve PFAS, solvents, heavy metals, or petroleum byproducts. These lawsuits frequently seek compensation for water treatment costs, property damage, and long-term environmental cleanup.
PFAS and Firefighting Foam Contamination
PFAS contamination has become one of the largest environmental litigation areas in the country. These chemicals were widely used in firefighting foam at military bases, airports, and industrial facilities and are now linked to serious health risks and widespread water contamination.
PFAS lawsuits commonly involve:
- Municipal water systems
- Airports and fire training facilities
- Property owners near contamination sites
- Cleanup and infrastructure replacement costs
Stag Liuzza has been deeply involved in PFAS and AFFF litigation nationwide, representing individuals and entities seeking accountability and cost recovery.
Oil Field and Industrial Pollution Claims
Oil field pollution cases are common in energy-producing regions like Louisiana. Improper handling of drilling waste, spills, and aging infrastructure can contaminate soil, water, and nearby properties.
These lawsuits often involve:
- Produced water and drilling waste
- Pipeline leaks and ruptures
- Improper waste disposal
- Long-term soil contamination
Property owners and communities may pursue claims for environmental remediation, lost land value, and restoration costs.
Hazardous and Radioactive Materials Exposure
Some environmental contamination cases involve exposure to hazardous or radioactive materials, including naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) found in oilfield equipment and waste.
These claims may arise from:
- Pipe yards and equipment storage facilities
- Industrial cleanup sites
- Improper disposal of radioactive scale or sludge
Exposure can pose serious health risks and lead to both environmental and personal injury claims.
Industrial Air and Soil Contamination
Not all environmental harm occurs underground. Airborne pollutants and contaminated soil can also cause long-term damage to communities and property.
Examples include:
- Chemical releases into the air
- Industrial dust and particulate exposure
- Contaminated soil from historical operations
- Improper site remediation
These cases often require environmental testing, expert analysis, and long-term impact assessments to establish liability.
Why Environmental Contamination Cases Are So Complex
Environmental lawsuits differ from standard personal injury cases because they often involve:
- Multiple corporate defendants
- Decades of contamination history
- Regulatory violations
- Scientific and environmental expert testimony
- Large-scale cleanup and remediation costs
Proving responsibility requires a detailed investigation into how contamination occurred, who caused it, and how it continues to impact people and property.
How Stag Liuzza Handles Environmental Contamination Lawsuits
Stag Liuzza focuses on complex environmental litigation where the stakes are high and the impact is widespread. Our attorneys work with environmental experts, engineers, and scientists to build strong cases against responsible parties.
We represent:
- Municipalities and public entities
- Property owners
- Businesses impacted by contamination
- Communities affected by environmental harm
If you believe environmental contamination has affected your property or community, our team can help you understand your legal options. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Learn More About Our Environmental Law Practice Areas
If you want to better understand how environmental contamination claims work or whether you may have a case, explore our environmental practice areas or contact Stag Liuzza for a consultation.
