Veterans who are still suffering from the effects of Agent Orange exposure can qualify for VA disability benefits.
Summary
Agent Orange, a powerful herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, aimed to eliminate forest cover and crops for the enemy. Unfortunately, its use left devastating health impacts on exposed veterans.
Many Vietnam veterans who came into contact with Agent Orange continue to suffer from serious conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and neurological disorders. The importance of filing VA disability claims cannot be overstated, as these benefits provide crucial support for veterans and their families dealing with the long-term effects of this exposure.
At Bartlett Legal Group, our VA-accredited lawyers are dedicated to helping you or your loved one navigate the complex process of filing a toxic exposure VA disability claim or appeal related to Agent Orange. Our experienced team helps veterans secure the compensation and care they deserve for their service and sacrifices.
If you are a Vietnam veteran affected by Agent Orange, we are here to advocate for your rights and well-being. Get in touch with us to schedule a free consultation by calling (850) 332-6434 or submitting this contact form.
During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military employed various herbicides in Southeast Asia to protect American and Allied forces. The chemical weed killers helped by clearing dense jungle vegetation that concealed enemy positions. These herbicides were identified by color-coded bands on their 55-gallon drums, including Agent White, Agent Blue, and the most widely used, Agent Orange.
The military dispersed herbicides using aircraft, trucks, and hand-held sprayers to remove vegetation around landing zones, fire bases, and riverbanks. From 1962 to 1971, the U.S. sprayed nearly 11 million gallons of Agent Orange in Vietnam. “Operation Ranch Hand” was the main aerial spray initiative.
Agent Orange consists of two chemicals, 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T, also known as chlorinated phenoxy acids in ester form. The most hazardous component is a manufacturing byproduct of 2,4,5-T called 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, or simply dioxin. Dioxin concentrations in Agent Orange varied significantly, ranging from less than 0.05 to nearly 50 parts per million.
Approximately three million veterans served in Southeast Asia, but it is unclear how many were exposed to Agent Orange. Exposure could occur during or immediately after spraying operations or through direct handling and application of the chemical.
Vietnam veterans who came into contact with Agent Orange and its dioxin contaminants have reported numerous severe health issues, including cancers, liver damage, chloracne, numbness or tingling in limbs, skin lesions, decreased libido, light sensitivity, changes in skin pigmentation, joint pain, and birth defects in their children.
The VA provides various types of compensation to veterans, including service-connected disability compensation. To qualify, veterans must demonstrate an in-service event or injury, a current disability, and a connection between the two. Research has confirmed a link between exposure to Agent Orange and other similar herbicides and the development of specific disabling medical conditions.
Veterans may qualify for Agent Orange exposure compensation if they served under the following conditions:
The compensation amount depends on the severity of the service-connected disability and potentially the number of qualifying dependents. The VA assesses the disability on a percentage scale from zero to 100 percent; higher percentages and more qualifying dependents result in higher monthly payments. Notably, a rating between 0 to 20 percent does not include additional compensation for dependents.
Typically, the VA grants service-connected disability compensation for Agent Orange exposure presumptive conditions under its “presumptive service-connected rules.” This means the VA assumes veterans were exposed to Agent Orange and are eligible for compensation and healthcare if they develop any medical conditions listed on this guide and served in the specified areas during the noted periods.
You might qualify for VA disability compensation due to Agent Orange exposure if you meet two criteria:
Eligibility is assessed based on the specifics of each veteran’s claim. The VA presumes that certain cancers and illnesses are caused by Agent Orange, known as presumptive conditions. It also presumes veterans who served in certain locations were exposed to Agent Orange, referred to as presumptive exposure.
The PACT Act has added two new presumptive conditions:
A condition is considered presumptive if established by law or regulation. If diagnosed with one of these conditions, you aren’t required to prove it started or worsened due to military service.
If you suffer from a cancer or illness not listed as a presumptive condition but believe it’s due to Agent Orange exposure, you can still file for VA disability benefits. However, you will need to provide additional evidence. The experienced VA-accredited disability claims lawyers at Bartlett Legal Group can help you appeal your Agent Orange VA disability claim after the VA denies you the benefits you deserve.
Filing a VA disability claim for Agent Orange exposure involves several steps before you can secure the benefits you qualify for. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process, including how to appeal if the VA denies your claim. Once you have applied, you can check your claim status to see how your case is progressing.
Navigating the VA disability claims process can be complex and overwhelming, especially for Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange. Consulting a VA-accredited lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve. Here are five key benefits of working with experienced VA disability claim lawyers:
Working with a VA-accredited lawyer means you have a dedicated advocate fighting for the disability benefits you have earned.
Bartlett Legal Group is a team of VA-accredited lawyers who proudly assist Vietnam veterans and their families in appealing VA disability claims for illnesses, injuries, and secondary conditions related to Agent Orange exposure.
Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the benefits you deserve for your service and sacrifices. Don’t wait any longer—take action today. Call us at (850) 332-6434 or submit a contact form to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned VA attorney. Let Bartlett Legal Group be your advocate in navigating the complex VA claims process.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is not, nor is it intended to be legal advice. You should contact an attorney for advice on your individual situation. Contacting Bartlett Legal Group, PLLC does not create an attorney-client relationship.
