3M Defective Earplug Lawsuits in Starkville

Representing Veterans in Mississippi

Americans serving in all branches of the military between 2003 and 2015 likely used 3M Combat Arms Earplugs during their service. Veterans of The Iraq War, the War in Afghanistan, and a number of other conflicts received the earplugs as standard issue equipment while deployed. Sadly, the earplugs were later found to be defective, causing injury to the ears that resulted in hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance issues for military personnel.

What Was Wrong With the 3M Earplugs?

The 3M Combat Arms Earplugs were meant to be designed to seal and protect the ears of soldiers from loud noises while in a combat setting. Unfortunately, the earplugs were manufactured too short to be fully inserted into the ear, causing them to become loose, not properly sealing the ear and exposing soldiers to dangerously loud sounds.

Was 3M Aware of the Defects?

Aero Technologies was contracted by the government in 2003 to provide earplugs to the military. In 2008, 3M acquired Aero Technologies. The earplugs were not properly tested and were distributed despite findings that they did not fit properly and were not as effective at noise reduction as they were meant to be. 3M was reportedly aware of the product defects and hired Aero Technologies personnel who were also aware of the defects during the acquisition.

What Issues Have Resulted from Use of Defective Ear Plugs?

In July 2018, the U.S. Military received a $9.1 million settlement from a 3M combat arms earplugs lawsuit. The direct exposure to loud noise in combat has caused many veterans to suffer from partial to full hearing loss, tinnitus, and other issues that can result from damage to the inner ear.

Tinnitus is a constant ringing noise in the ear that can be caused by sound exposure. Tinnitus can disrupt a victim’s ability to hear or affect speech understanding, an affliction called auditory processing disorder (APD).

Aside from hearing, the inner ear is also the part of the body that regulates balance. Therefore, damage to the inner ear can cause balancing problems as well as hearing loss.

As an Affected Veteran, What Are My Options?

At Vollor Law Firm, P.A., our personal injury attorneys are committed to providing support and dedicated representation to our clients. We are your resource for navigating complicated processes involved with pursuing legal action against negligent parties that have caused your injuries. Our representation has resulted in millions of dollars in recovered damages for our clients.

Request a free consultation through the form on our website or by calling (662) 269-6188.