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In July 2018, it was publicly revealed that 3M Corporation had agreed to settle a qui tam lawsuit with the United States government for $9.1 million. The lawsuit brought by the United States alleged that 3M knowingly supplied the United States Military with defective earplugs for over a decade. The lawsuit alleged that 3M falsified test results and covered up the fact that the dual-ended earplugs could loosen, allowing hearing damage to occur in the wearer. Thousands of soldiers were supplied with 3M’s Combat Arms® Earplugs from 2003 to 2015.
What are Combat Arms® Earplugs?
Combat Arms® Earplugs are dual-sided earplugs which were designed to provide the wearer with protection from hearing damage caused by close-range firearms and other loud noises like explosions. However, due to a design defect, the earplugs can become loose without the wearer knowing that they have come loose. When this happens, the earplugs do not protect the wearer from hearing damage from gunfire and explosions. According to the lawsuit filed by the United States government, 3M knew of these design defects, but knowingly sold the defective earplugs to the military from 2003-2015.
What Injuries are Associated With Use of the 3M Combat Arms® Earplugs?
Military Personnel have reported the following side effects from the use of Combat Arms® Earplugs, including:
- Hearing Loss
- Tinnitus , or ringing in the ears
- Deafness
The Attorneys at Franklin D. Azar & Associates are Accepting Cases Involving Injuries Caused by the Use of Combat Arms® Earplugs
Our attorneys are investigating claims related to the 3M Combat Arms® Earplugs and the resulting hearing loss and tinnitus reported by service members. Military personnel who have sustained hearing los and/or tinnitus resulting from the use of Combat Arms® Earplugs may be entitled to compensation, including:
- Past and Future Pain and Suffering
- Past and Future Medical Bills
- Past and Future Lost Wages
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
If you or a loved one sustained hearing loss and/or tinnitus as a result of your use of 3M’s Combat Arms® Earplugs, call us today for a free consultation. You may be entitled to compensation.
