Sacramento Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Sacramento Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

Sacramento, California, has faced increasing scrutiny over water contamination issues, particularly with the recent surge in lawsuits related to PFAS in drinking water. Learn more about ongoing water contamination issues in Sacramento, including the historical context, sources of contamination, and recent legal developments. King Law is dedicated to highlighting and raising awareness of the health risks associated with exposure to harmful chemicals like PFAS, which have been found in the city’s water supply at levels exceeding safety guidelines. 

Sacramento Water Contamination Overview

Sacramento, California, has a rich history, dating back to the Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. As the state capital, Sacramento has played a central role in California’s political and economic development. Its strategic location along the Sacramento River facilitated trade and transportation during its early years, and since then, it has continued to grow while balancing its historical significance with modern development.

However, Sacramento’s history and growth have also been linked to environmental challenges, including water contamination. The city’s reliance on both surface and groundwater sources has made it vulnerable to pollutants like arsenic, pesticides, and PFAS. There are ongoing efforts to monitor and treat water to protect public health, but decades of unaddressed PFAS use have contributed to thousands of lawsuits against manufacturers from wrongful exposure.

Sacramento Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

Thousands of people nationwide are now filing lawsuits after being exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water, which has been linked to severe health issues like liver, testicular, thyroid, and kidney cancers, as well as thyroid disease and ulcerative colitis. The recent EPA regulations on PFAS highlight growing concerns about water safety in Sacramento.

King Law is here to support individuals in Sacramento, California who have been impacted by toxic water. If you were exposed to toxic drinking water for at least six months before developing a serious health condition like cancer, reach out to schedule a free consultation. We can confirm your eligibility and discuss options for you to potentially receive compensation that can help with lost wages, medical bills, and more.

About Sacramento, California Water Contamination:

History of Water Contamination in Sacramento, California

Learn more about the history of Sacramento water contamination: 

• 2024: Despite meeting some regulatory guidelines, Sacramento drinking water tests well above Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommended health limits for chemicals like haloacetic acids, total trihalomethanes, arsenic, and PFAS. 
• 2023: A study by University of California, Davis researchers found elevated levels of PFAS in fish species throughout the Feather River and San Joaquin River. 
• 2021: An EWG Tap Water Database update identifies 29 total contaminants in Sacramento surface water from 2014-2020 data. Of these toxins, 15 exceeded EWG Health Guidelines, including arsenic and PFAS. 
• 2020: Sacramento Area Sewer District agreed to participate in a widespread study to understand the extent of PFAS contamination with estimated completion in 2024.
• 2019: An EWG report reveals PFAS contamination in 74 Sacramento community water systems from 2013 to 2019. According to the report, more than 40% of these systems had levels that exceeded the EPA’s health advisory.

Sources of Water Contamination in Sacramento

Some key sources of water contamination in Sacramento, CA include: 

Agricultural activity: Sacramento is dominated by agricultural activity with around 2,160,000 acres of watershed land used for growing rice, fruit, nuts, grain, and hay crops. More than 2 million people live within the watershed, which has water quality impacted by metals and pesticides from agricultural activity. Runoff, in particular, is a large concern as heavy rainfall disturbs pesticides and other chemicals. This has continued to be a major source of water contamination for Sacramento residents. 

Sewage overflow: Aging sewage systems and increased demand on them with heavy rainfall and growing populations have caused multiple sewage overflow incidents in Sacramento. Sewage overflows have introduced various toxins to drinking water supplies, posing immediate health risks. The non-profit California Coastkeeper Alliance even sued Sacramento County due to supposed illegal discharges of toxic waste into Sacramento waterways. 

Military activity: For decades, military bases across the United States have used aqueous film-forming foam to maintain and put out fires during fire training exercises and other flammable events. Until recently, firefighting foam has been made with PFAS, a group of toxic substances that seep into the ground and infiltrate water supplies. These toxins can migrate through soil and groundwater, not only impacting water quality at military bases but also throughout nearby communities. This has been a major source of contamination for Sacramento.

Sacramento, California Water Contamination Map

Our Sacramento, CA water contamination map shows areas where PFAS has been found in drinking water supplies. 

Sacramento drinking water systems with PFAS detections above proposed limits include City of Sacramento Main, California State Fair, Calam-Arden, Fruitridge Vista Water Company, Sacramento Suburban Water District, California American Water Company, Branch Center, Florin County Water District, and Olympia Mobilodge. 

Several other water systems tested positive for PFAS but at levels below the proposed limits. And finally, military bases in Sacramento demonstrated some of the highest levels of PFAS water contamination, including: 

• McClellan Air Force Base (2018): 2,100 ppt for PFOA, 3,000 ppt for PFOS
• Sacramento Army Depot (2023): 150 ppt for PFOA, 220 ppt for PFOS
• Mather Army Aviation Support Facility (2022): 134 ppt for PFOA, 111 ppt for PFOS

Contaminants Found in Sacramento, California Drinking Water

The main contaminants in Sacramento, California drinking water include: 

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) 

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination is a growing concern in Sacramento, California. These synthetic chemicals, often found in products like firefighting foam, are known for their persistence in both the environment and the human body, which is why they’re called “forever chemicals.” In Sacramento, PFAS has been found in groundwater, raising worries about the risks of long-term exposure for residents.

The health risks linked to PFAS exposure are serious, as these chemicals build up in the body over time. Potential health issues include:

• Higher chance of cancers, particularly kidney cancer and testicular cancer
• Liver damage
• Thyroid problems
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Weakened immune system
• Complications during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure and low birth weight

While efforts are being made to monitor and lower PFAS levels in Sacramento’s water, people are still worried about the long-term health impacts.

Arsenic 

Arsenic contamination in Sacramento, California’s drinking water poses a significant health risk, especially in areas that depend on groundwater. Arsenic, a natural element, can enter water supplies through surrounding rocks and soil. In some parts of Sacramento, arsenic levels have been found to exceed EPA safety guidelines.

Prolonged exposure to arsenic in drinking water can result in serious health problems, including:

• Higher risk of various cancers, such as skin, lung, and bladder cancer
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Neurological issues, including cognitive impairment and developmental challenges in children
• Skin problems, such as lesions and discoloration
• Diabetes
• Breathing difficulties

It is essential to continue efforts to reduce arsenic levels in Sacramento’s water supply to protect the community from these serious health risks.

Pesticides

Pesticides in Sacramento’s drinking water pose significant health risks to residents. Used in agriculture, these toxins can seep into groundwater and surface water, contaminating the local water supply. Long-term exposure to pesticides, even in small amounts, can lead to serious health issues, such as: 

• Increased risk of cancer (especially leukemia, lymphoma, and other cancers)
• Hormonal disruption (leading to reproductive and developmental issues)
• Neurological disorders (such as cognitive impairments and Parkinson’s disease)
• Respiratory problems (including asthma and chronic bronchitis)
• Immune system suppression
• Skin conditions (like rashes and dermatitis)

Current Water Quality in Sacramento, California

Recent Sacramento water quality reports indicate the city’s water is safe to drink after testing for more than 100 potential contaminants. Standards for Sacramento water are set by the EPA and the California State Board. However, there are ongoing concerns about elevated levels of arsenic and PFAS in groundwater. Water test results from as recent as August 2024 show PFAS levels above the EPA’s most recent enforceable limit of 4 ppt for PFOS and PFOA. 

Water Treatment Efforts at Sacramento, California

Sacramento focuses its water treatment efforts on meeting state and federal regulations that until recently, have not involved enforceable limits for PFAS. Treatment efforts involve frequent monitoring, coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation, traditional filtration, disinfection, and advanced treatment with carbon filtration and UV disinfection. The Sacramento County Water Agency is primarily responsible for monitoring contaminants, including PFAS, and implementing advanced technologies when needed.

Health Risks and Symptoms Linked to Drinking Water in Sacramento

Extended exposure to PFAS-tainted water in Sacramento, California, is associated with several severe health issues. Research and reports reveal a troubling rise in conditions such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, and liver cancer among those affected. Furthermore, there is an increased incidence of thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis, and different types of lymphoma, including non-Hodgkin’s and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Men exposed to PFAS have also shown higher rates of male breast cancer and prostate cancer.

To catch potential health problems early, it’s important to have regular check-ups, including cancer screenings and blood tests. If you suspect you’ve been exposed to contaminated water, inform your healthcare provider immediately and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms.

Eligibility Criteria for the Sacramento Water Contamination Lawsuit

To qualify for a personal injury lawsuit related to Sacramento’s water contamination, individuals need to meet specific requirements concerning their exposure duration and related health issues. Generally, this includes:

• Residing or working in the affected area during the contamination period, with at least six months of exposure to the polluted water.
• Having a diagnosis of health conditions linked to toxic exposure, such as kidney, liver, testicular, or thyroid cancer, or thyroid disease. Other conditions like ulcerative colitis might also be eligible.
• Providing essential documentation, such as medical records confirming the diagnosis and evidence of residence or employment in the contaminated area during the relevant time.

These requirements are crucial for building a strong legal case and assessing the potential for compensation. Consulting with specialized attorneys, like those at King Law, is recommended for guidance through the legal process, evaluating your claim, and setting realistic expectations for the lawsuit’s outcome.

Sacramento Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

Settlement amounts for Sacramento water contamination cases can vary widely, depending on key factors like how long someone was exposed to the contaminated water and the severity of their health problems. The stronger the link between the exposure and the health issues, the higher the potential settlement.

In similar cases, settlements have ranged from $30,000 to $300,000, with an average of about $250,000. Those with more severe health problems or longer exposure times may receive higher amounts, potentially close to or over a million dollars. On the other hand, individuals with less severe issues or weaker evidence may see settlements between $30,000 and $75,000. Given the complexities of these cases, it’s important to consult with legal experts to understand your potential compensation based on your situation.

How to File a Sacramento Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing a water contamination lawsuit in Sacramento, California, involves several key steps:

1. Gather important documents: Start by collecting evidence that shows you lived or worked in Sacramento during the time of contamination. This could include utility bills, lease agreements, or employment records. You should also gather medical records that link your health issues, like cancer or thyroid problems, to the contaminated water. To make your case stronger, try to obtain environmental reports, public health notices, or government documents that confirm the presence of contaminants in Sacramento’s water. Your attorney can assist with this.
2. Consult with an experienced attorney: Speak with a lawyer who specializes in environmental law and knows California’s legal system. They will help you file your lawsuit with the proper court and make sure all the legal procedures are followed correctly.
3. Understand California’s laws: In Sacramento, there are specific legal requirements to be aware of, such as California’s statute of limitations, which usually requires you to file your lawsuit within two years of discovering the harm. California’s Proposition 65, which requires businesses to warn about chemicals that can cause cancer or reproductive harm, may also play a role in your case.

At King Law, we can help you through this process, ensuring your lawsuit is filed correctly and backed by solid evidence. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Evidence to Support Your Sacramento Water Contamination Claim

In Sacramento, California, proving a water contamination claim involves collecting solid evidence to connect your exposure to the health problems you’ve experienced. This is essential for the success of your case.

To strengthen your claim, gather the following key evidence:

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

By assembling this evidence, you can solidify your case and improve your chances of a favorable outcome in your Sacramento water contamination lawsuit.

Statute of Limitations for Sacramento Water Contamination Claims

It’s important to understand the statute of limitations when filing a water contamination lawsuit, as it sets the deadline for taking legal action to seek compensation. Missing this deadline can result in losing the right to pursue compensation. The timeframe varies depending on the state and specific details of the case.

Due to these varying deadlines, it’s crucial for those affected by water contamination to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can help identify the correct filing deadlines and make sure all necessary steps are taken on time. Consulting with a lawyer early on can protect your right to file a claim, giving you the time needed to gather evidence and strengthen your case for a better chance of success.

Sacramento Water Contamination Lawyers

At King Law, we focus on representing clients in Sacramento, CA, who are dealing with water contamination issues, particularly those involving PFAS and other dangerous chemicals in local water supplies. With deep expertise in environmental law, our team is well-equipped to handle the complexities of these cases. We support you through every phase, from assessing the viability of your claim to gathering essential documents and offering strong legal representation in court. We know how water contamination can impact your health and quality of life, and we are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

At King Law, we are committed to guiding our clients through this difficult process, providing the legal knowledge and support needed to build a compelling case. If you’ve been impacted by water contamination in Sacramento, having skilled legal representation by your side can be crucial in achieving justice and obtaining the compensation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Learn more about Sacramento, California water contamination with answers to these frequently asked questions: