Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

Big Bear Lake is located in southern California and is considered a year-round “mountain lake escape.” Despite its gorgeous scenery and popularity as a California vacation destination, it continues to struggle with water contamination, especially when it comes to PFAS, a group of toxic chemicals that build up in the body and environment and can cause cancer. Learn more about how PFAS and arsenic have contributed to toxic water concerns.

Big Bear Lake, California Water Contamination Overview

Big Bear Lake, California, has a rich history dating back to its origins as a hunting ground for indigenous peoples, particularly the Serrano tribe. Big Bear Lake was known to provide ample wildlife and freshwater resources. In the mid-19th century, the discovery of gold in the nearby Holcomb Valley brought an influx of settlers, transforming the area into a mining town. The construction of the first dam in 1884 created the original Big Bear Lake, which later became a popular resort destination in the early 20th century, attracting tourists with its mountain scenery and recreation.

Today, Big Bear Lake plays a vital role as a year-round recreational hub, offering activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and skiing. However, the area’s reliance on groundwater has brought environmental challenges, particularly with water contamination. The detection of harmful substances like PFAS and arsenic in local water sources has raised concerns about the long-term health impacts on residents and visitors.

Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

Big Bear Lake is one of many locations in California impacted by PFAS drinking water contamination. There are a few different ways PFAS can enter drinking water supplies. However, one of the biggest causes is from military activity. PFAS firefighting foam was used for decades to put out and maintain fires. When sprayed directly on the ground, it can seep into the soil and groundwater, negatively impacting drinking water. Big Bear Lake water samples have tested positive for numerous types of PFAS, putting residents and workers at risk of serious health conditions like kidney cancer and testicular cancer, among others. 

Thousands of individuals are now filing PFAS lawsuits against chemical manufacturers to recover compensation to help with medical bills, lost income, and other damages as a result of their wrongful exposure. If you’ve been impacted, reach out to King Law today. We are dedicated to representing PFAS victims and helping them earn the justice and compensation they deserve.

About Big Bear Lake, California Water Contamination:

History of Water Contamination in Big Bear Lake, California

Learn more about the history of Big Bear Lake water contamination: 

• 2024: Some drinking water sources have been cut off after PFAS levels exceeded notification regulations. Big Bear City Community Services District staff continue to work on PFAS water treatment methods. 
• 2023-2024: Multiple types of PFAS have been identified in Big Bear Lake drinking water systems including PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, and PFBS ranging from 3.5 ppt to 36 ppt.  
• 2022-2023: Despite falling below state regulatory limits, arsenic levels in Big Bear Lake drinking water during 2022 and 2023 drinking water quality reports are above Environmental Working Group (EWG) Health Guidelines, suggesting a public health risk.
• 2021: The EWG provided a 2021 Tap Water Database update noting 16 total contaminants in Big Bear Lake tap water, 8 of which exceeded EWG Health Guidelines. This included arsenic, bromodichloromethane, chromium, dibromoacetic acid, haloacetic acids, nitrate, nitrite, total trihalomethanes

Big Bear Lake, California Water Contamination Map

Reference our Big Bear Lake water contamination map for areas where water systems have been flagged for the presence of drinking water. Dwp-Big Bear Lake/Moonridge drinking water system serves a population of around 5,155 people and has four different types of PFAS ranging from 5.5-9.6 ppt. Big Bear City CSD is another drinking water system with eight different types of PFAS detected ranging from 3.5-36 ppt.

Contaminants Found in Big Bear Lake Drinking Water

PFAS is the main contaminant of concern for Big Bear Lake drinking water. However, high levels of arsenic have also been cause for concern. For example, 2021 tap water results showed arsenic at 59 times the EWG Health Guideline. 

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination is becoming an increasing concern in Big Bear Lake, California. These man-made chemicals, commonly found in products like firefighting foam, are notorious for their persistence in both the environment and the human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” In Big Bear Lake, PFAS has been detected in groundwater, sparking fears about the potential risks of long-term exposure for residents.

The health risks associated with PFAS exposure are significant, as these chemicals accumulate in the body over time. Possible health issues include:

• An increased risk of cancers, particularly kidney and testicular cancer
• Liver damage
• Thyroid disorders
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• A weakened immune system
• Pregnancy complications, such as high blood pressure and low birth weight

Arsenic 

Arsenic contamination in Big Bear Lake, California’s drinking water is a serious health concern, particularly in areas reliant on groundwater. Arsenic, a naturally occurring element, can leach into water supplies from surrounding rocks and soil. In certain parts of Big Bear Lake, arsenic levels have been detected above the EPA’s safety guidelines.

Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water can lead to severe health issues, including:

• Increased risk of cancers, such as skin, lung, and bladder cancer
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Neurological problems, including cognitive impairment and developmental delays in children
• Skin conditions, including lesions and discoloration
• Diabetes
• Respiratory difficulties

Sources of Water Contamination in Big Bear Lake, California

There are a few main sources of arsenic and PFAS pollution in Big Bear Lake, including: 

• Agriculture: Agricultural activity can introduce chemicals from pesticides and herbicides that may enter groundwater through runoff. 
• Industry: Industrial activity can pollute the environment with chemicals used during manufacturing. 
• Military: The use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam (aqueous film-forming foam or “AFFF”) introduced PFAS to soil and groundwater.
• Naturally occurring: Arsenic is naturally occurring and can enter groundwater during mining and other environmental disturbances.

Current Water Quality in Big Bear Lake, California

Big Bear Lake water quality reports don’t flag any recent exceedances in contaminants. However, there were not enforceable limits from PFAS until April 2024 and one of the most recent water quality reports is for the year 2023. The EPA’s new enforceable limits are 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS. Big Bear Lake water system test results from 2023-2024 showed PFOS levels at 6.1-9.0 ppt and PFOA levels at 4.5-5.5 ppt. 

Arsenic also continues to pose a concern despite being below state Maximum Contaminant Limits (MCLs). For example, California’s MCL for arsenic is 10 ppb. However, the EWG follows a health guideline of 0.004 ppb. Big Bear Lake’s 2022 Water Quality report cited arsenic levels as high as 6.5 ppb and 4.5 ppb for 2023. 

Water Treatment Efforts at Big Bear Lake, California

Big Bear Lake continues to monitor water for potential contaminants and release yearly water quality reports available to the public. When there are exceedances, efforts are made to take affected water systems offline, when possible, while integrating updated filtration techniques. PFAS treatment efforts are still underway and require improvement after the new enforceable limits were established by the EPA. For arsenic, reverse osmosis and ion exchange continue to be top filtration methods.

Health Risks and Symptoms Linked to Drinking Water in Big Bear Lake, California

Exposure to PFAS-contaminated water in Big Bear Lake, California, is connected to a range of serious health conditions. Scientific studies have linked extended PFAS exposure to an increased risk of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, liver cancer, prostate cancer, male breast cancer, thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. 

Notify your healthcare provider of any known or suspected toxic water exposure. Maintain regular checkups and participate in any suggested screenings to detect life-threatening conditions as soon as possible. This can help expand your treatment options and improve your prognosis.

Eligibility Criteria for the Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Lawsuit

To be eligible for a personal injury lawsuit related to Big Bear Lake’s water contamination, individuals must meet specific criteria regarding the duration of their exposure and the associated health conditions. Typically, this involves:

• Living or working in the affected area during the contamination period, with at least six months of exposure to the contaminated water.
• Receiving a diagnosis of health issues linked to toxic exposure, such as kidney, liver, testicular, or thyroid cancer, or thyroid disease. Other conditions, like ulcerative colitis, may also qualify.
• Providing necessary documentation, including medical records confirming the diagnosis and proof of residence or employment in the contaminated area during the relevant period.

These criteria are essential for building a strong legal case and determining the potential for compensation. It is advisable to consult with specialized attorneys, such as those at King Law, for guidance through the legal process, evaluation of your claim, and setting realistic expectations for the outcome of your lawsuit.

Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

Settlement amounts for water contamination cases in Big Bear Lake can differ significantly based on factors like the duration of exposure to the contaminated water and the severity of the resulting health issues. The closer the connection between the contamination and the health problems, the higher the potential settlement could be.

In similar cases, settlements have ranged from $30,000 to $300,000, with an average of around $250,000. Those who have experienced more severe health effects or longer exposure periods might receive higher settlements, potentially reaching or exceeding a million dollars. Conversely, individuals with milder health issues or less compelling evidence might see settlements ranging from $30,000 to $75,000. Due to the complexities involved, consulting with legal experts is essential to gauge the potential compensation specific to your situation.

How to File a Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Lawsuit

If you’re looking to file a Big Bear Lake water contamination lawsuit, an environmental attorney will help you throughout the whole process, which typically entails: 

1. Gather important documents: Begin by gathering evidence that proves you lived or worked in Big Bear Lake during the period of contamination. This might include utility bills, lease agreements, or employment records. Additionally, collect medical records that connect your health issues, such as cancer or thyroid problems, to the contaminated water. Strengthen your case further by seeking out environmental reports, public health notices, or government documents that verify the presence of contaminants in Big Bear Lake’s water. Your attorney can help with this process.
2. Consult with an experienced attorney: Consult with an attorney who specializes in environmental law and is familiar with California’s legal system. They will assist you in filing your lawsuit with the appropriate court and ensure that all legal procedures are properly followed.
3. Understand California’s laws: In Big Bear Lake, it’s important to understand certain legal requirements, like California’s statute of limitations, which generally mandates that you file your lawsuit within two years of discovering the harm. Additionally, California’s Proposition 65, which requires businesses to warn about chemicals that may cause cancer or reproductive harm, could also be relevant to your case.

King Law is dedicated to helping ensure the success of your claim. Contact us today to get set up with an initial consultation. 

Evidence to Support Your Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Claim

The amount and strength of evidence you provide can greatly influence the success of your case and amount of compensation you receive. The following evidence can be used to build and strengthen your Big Bear Lake water contamination claim: 

• Medical records: Proof of diagnoses, treatment details, and doctor statements that link your health issues to the contaminated water.
• Proof of residence or employment: Utility bills, lease agreements, or work records that show you were in Big Bear Lake during the time of contamination.
• Environmental reports: Documents that show contamination levels in Big Bear Lake’s water, such as public health notices or government reports.
• Expert opinions: Statements from medical and environmental experts who can support the connection between your exposure and health problems.
• Witness accounts: Testimonies from other community members who have faced similar health issues, highlighting the broader impact of the contamination.

Consult with an experienced attorney for help collecting and validating your evidence, as well as using it to build your case.

Statute of Limitations for Big Bear Lake Water Contamination Claims

Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial when considering a water contamination lawsuit, as it determines the timeframe within which you must take legal action to seek compensation. Failing to meet this deadline can mean losing the opportunity to claim damages. The specific timeframe varies by state and depends on the details of the case.

Given these varying deadlines, it’s essential for individuals affected by water contamination to consult with a lawyer promptly. A legal professional can help determine the correct deadlines and ensure that all necessary procedures are completed on time. Early consultation with an attorney safeguards your right to file a claim, allowing you the time needed to gather evidence and build a stronger case for a better chance of success.

Big Bear Lake, California Water Contamination Lawyers

King Law has a long and successful track record of representing victims of PFAS contamination. If you’ve dealt with health issues related to toxic water contamination at Big Bear Lake, CA, we’re here to help. With expertise in environmental law, we understand the complexities of toxic torts and can provide you with compassionate support, guidance, and representation throughout the entire legal process—from confirming your eligibility and helping build your case to filing it in the appropriate court and negotiating a settlement on your behalf, we have you covered. 

Don’t delay and risk losing your chances for compensation. Reach out to us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and discover your legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Learn more about Big Bear Lake, California water contamination with answers to these frequently asked questions: