3M dual-ended Combat Arms™ Earplugs, Version 2 (CAvE2) earplugs are alleged to have been designed with a stem that is too short to allow for proper insertion into the user’s ears. Because of this defect, the earplugs would imperceptibly loosen and allow dangerous sounds to enter the ear canal, resulting in noise-induced hearing injuries following exposure to combat noises.

In July 2018, 3M paid $9.1 million to the United States to resolve allegations in a False Claims Act lawsuit that the company covered up the Combat Arms Earplugs design defects, resulting in hearing-related injuries to servicemembers who had used the Earplugs between 2003 and 2015.

What is noise-induced hearing loss? Noise-induced hearing loss is damage to structures in the inner ear resulting from exposure to harmful noise levels. (Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders). Servicemembers who have filed lawsuits have claimed injuries including tinnitus – or ringing in the ears, partial hearing loss, total hearing loss, and others.

• Had no hearing problems prior to enlistment
• Military service dates between 2003 and 2015
• Used the 3M Combat Arms (CAE2) earplugs as primary hearing protection and as instructed
• Received a diagnosis of hearing loss and/or tinnitus during or immediately after discharge or retirement

Contact us to discuss your legal rights and how Ohio Personal Injury Lawyers can assist you in seeking compensation from the Combat Arms™ Earplugs manufacturers.