PRACTICE AREAS: 3M EAR PLUGS - MILITARY PERSONNEL
In a startling settlement in July 2018, the 3M corporation agreed to pay $9.1 million in a False Claims Act lawsuit to settle allegations that it knowingly supplied the United States military with defective earplugs. The lawsuit brought on behalf of the government alleged that the company covered up the fact that the dual-ended earplugs could slightly loosen, allowing hearing damage to occur and that thousands of service members were supplied the defective 3M Combat Arms Earplugs from 2003 to 2015.
​
Defective 3M Brand Combat Arms Earplugs May Cause Hearing Loss or Tinnitus
​
What are 3M Combat Arms Earplugs?
Minneapolis-based 3M manufactured these dual-ended earplugs for hearing protection from close range fi rearms and other loud impact noises. Due to the defective design, the earplugs can slightly loosen and subtly move out of the ear canal just enough for the loud sounds to cause hearing damage. According to reports, 3M knew of these design defects, but knowingly sold them to the US military from 2003-2015.
What risks are associated with 3M Combat Arms Earplugs?
Service members and combat veterans have reported multiple side effects, including:
• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
• Permanent hearing damage
• Deafness
Were you issued 3M Combat Arms earplugs in the military?
Our attorneys are investigating claims related to the 3M Combat Arms earplugs and the subsequent hearing loss and tinnitus reported by service members. Military personnel who were diagnosed with these problems after using the defective earplugs may file lawsuits against the manufacturer alleging that 3M knowingly supplied the defective earplugs to service members leaving them vulnerable to hearing damage, hearing loss and tinnitus.
Filing a claim against 3M could help you recover compensation for:
• Pain and suffering
• Medical bills
• Past lost wages
• Future lost wages
• Permanent or temporary disability
• Punitive damages
• Loss of enjoyment of life
​
If you or a loved one was supplied 3M earplugs while in the military and have been diagnosed with hearing loss or tinnitus, contact our Consumer Protection attorneys today for a free consultation. You may be entitled to significant cant monetary compensation. There is never a fee unless we recover for you.
​
Click here for a free case review.