Mass torts are one of the most significant legal movements, often involving thousands of plaintiffs against large corporations. These cases can lead to substantial settlements and bring about critical changes in product safety and corporate accountability. Let’s dive into the trending mass torts in 2024 that are shaping the legal landscape right now.
1. PFAS (Forever Chemicals) Litigation
One of the most prominent mass torts of 2024 revolves around Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” PFAS are found in various products, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foams. These chemicals have been linked to severe health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and reproductive problems.
2. Hair Relaxer Lawsuits
Another significant mass tort in 2024 involves hair relaxer products, which have been linked to an increased risk of uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and fibroids. Many women, particularly women of color, who have used these products for years, are now coming forward with allegations that manufacturers knew—or should have known—about the risks but failed to warn consumers.
3. Social Media Addiction Claims
In an age dominated by digital media, 2024 has seen a rise in mass torts against social media companies. These claims argue that platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have knowingly designed their algorithms to be addictive, particularly for younger users, leading to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and even suicidal tendencies.
4. Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
The Camp Lejeune water contamination cases have gained significant traction in 2024. Veterans and their families stationed at the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina from the 1950s to the 1980s were exposed to toxic water, leading to various forms of cancer and other serious illnesses. With new legislation allowing affected individuals to file claims, this has become one of the year’s most active mass torts.
5. Opioid Crisis Litigation
While opioid litigation has been ongoing for several years, 2024 has seen a new wave of mass torts focusing on the devastating impact of synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Plaintiffs argue that pharmaceutical companies and distributors played a significant role in the opioid epidemic by aggressively marketing these powerful drugs while downplaying their addictive potential.
6. 3M Earplug Lawsuits
The 3M earplug lawsuits remain a significant mass tort in 2024. Service members have alleged that faulty earplugs provided by 3M failed to protect their hearing, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus. With thousands of cases consolidated in multidistrict litigation, this remains one of the largest mass torts in history.
7. Zantac Cancer Lawsuits
Zantac, a popular heartburn medication, was found to contain NDMA, a probable human carcinogen. Lawsuits continue to rise in 2024 as more people come forward, claiming that long-term use of Zantac led to various types of cancer. The litigation has prompted a global recall and raised questions about the safety of other medications.
8. Talcum Powder Litigation
Talcum powder lawsuits have been ongoing for years, but 2024 has seen a resurgence in these claims. Plaintiffs argue that talcum powder products, particularly those made by Johnson & Johnson, contained asbestos, leading to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. Despite several large verdicts, new cases continue to emerge as more victims come forward.
9. Paraquat Herbicide Lawsuits
Farmers and agricultural workers have filed lawsuits against manufacturers of Paraquat, a widely used herbicide. These lawsuits claim that prolonged exposure to Paraquat causes Parkinson’s disease. As scientific evidence supporting these claims grows, so does the number of lawsuits, making this one of the most significant mass torts of 2024.
10. CPAP Machine Recalls
CPAP machines, used to treat sleep apnea, are at the center of another major mass tort in 2024. Philips Respironics recalled millions of CPAP devices after discovering that the foam used in these machines could degrade and release harmful particles and gases, potentially leading to respiratory issues and cancer. Affected users are now filing lawsuits, alleging the company failed to adequately warn them of these risks.
Mass torts in 2024 reflect the growing awareness and demand for corporate accountability in product safety and public health. Whether it’s chemicals in everyday products, medications, or digital platforms, these cases highlight the need for consumers to be vigilant and informed about the potential risks they face. As these mass torts continue to unfold, they will undoubtedly shape the legal and corporate landscape for years to come.