Since the reopening of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) more than a decade ago, thousands of victims of 9/11 toxic dust exposure have received compensation for having suffered related injuries and illnesses. As of June 2022, the VCF has paid more than $10 billion in compensation to claimants who qualify. And so far, this year, approximately 4,000 individuals have filed VCF claims.
A Brief Synopsis of the James Zadroga Act
The James Zadroga Act, which was signed into law by President Obama in 2011, created the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and the 9/11 September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). Having been reauthorized in 2015, the Zadroga Act provides additional funding to support the growing needs of 9/11 toxin exposure victims who have developed debilitating health conditions, even decades after initial exposure to a cocktail of dangerous carcinogens.
Although no amount of money can undo the pain and suffering associated with physical injuries and life-threatening cancer and other 9/11-related health conditions, the VCF provides the opportunity for eligible claimants to receive a fair amount of compensation for their situations.
Seeking Additional Funding for 9/11 Toxic Dust Exposure Victims
Cancer caused by exposure to toxins may take years – even decades – to develop. There is a qualifying latency period from the time of initial exposure to 9/11 toxins and a cancer diagnosis. Because 9/11 toxic dust exposure victims face diagnoses each year, the WTCHP and VCF require sufficient funding to ensure that all qualifying individuals have an opportunity to receive free medical treatment and compensation. As such, Congress must frequently reassess the status of the WTCHP and VCF funding situation.
The List of 9/11-Related Illnesses Continues to Grow
Given the length of time it may take for survivors to develop cancer following the September 11 attacks, new medical conditions that connect to 9/11 toxic dust exposure are still under review. A recent example is the addition of uterine/endometrial cancer to the list of 9/11-related conditions that qualify for inclusion in the WTCHP. Qualifying individuals should consider filing a VCF claim. As new claims grow, funding must be available to fairly compensate women who are (or have been) suffering from uterine cancer.
Choosing the Right 9/11 Lawyer to Help You
Were you exposed to the toxic dust around Ground Zero during or after September 11? Hiring a 9/11 lawyer to assist you in filing a claim with the VCF is critical, as this will maximize the amount of compensation that is commensurate with the severity of your illness and injuries.
In certain cases, individuals file VCF claims and are either denied compensation or are offered far less than they deserve. As such, choosing to hire a 9/11 lawyer with a track record of success is an important step to obtaining compensation through the VCF.
Contact the 9/11 Lawyers of Pitta & Baione Today
If you are a 9/11 toxin exposure victim and believe you are eligible to either receive medical benefits or file a VCF claim in order to be paid compensation, you should reach out to a qualified 9/11 lawyer to discuss your options.
At Pitta & Baione, our team of skilled 9/11 lawyers focus their time, energy, reputations, and resources to provide clients with superior legal representation. To discuss your situation with a 9/11 lawyer, contact Pitta & Baione today by calling (844) 596-1441 or by submitting a case inquiry through our website.
