Terrorist Attacks on September
The causation theory is supported by scientific evidence indicating that inhalation of asbestos, lead, silica, and other hazardous substances released during the WTC collapse causes long-term health effects. These include respiratory diseases such as asbestosis, silicosis, COPD, and asthma, as well as various cancers and cardiovascular diseases. The mechanisms involve chronic inflammation, cellular damage, and carcinogenesis triggered by inhaled fibers and particulates. Official reports from EPA and peer-reviewed studies confirm a direct link between exposure to toxic dust and the injuries reported by victims.
11
Pending actions
2,001
Total actions filed
Active
Status
12/09/2003
Established
Filing deadline
The claim filing deadline for the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is October 1, 2090. Registration deadlines have been extended multiple times, with the latest extension until July 29, 2021. The statutes of limitations for toxic exposure claims generally range from 3 to 7 years, but special provisions for 9/11 claims allow for extended deadlines, with claims potentially accepted until 2090 or beyond.
Who qualifies
Plaintiffs must have been present at the attack sites, within the NYC exposure zone, or along debris removal routes from September 11, 2001, to May 30, 2002. They must demonstrate exposure to toxic dust or hazardous materials during this period and have a certified 9/11-related injury or condition through the WTC Health Program or VCF verification. Presence during the specified period and injury certification are critical for eligibility.
Products involved
- Toxic dust
- Asbestos
- Lead
- Silica
Alleged injuries
- Respiratory diseases (asbestosis, silicosis, COPD, asthma)
- Cancers (mesothelioma, lung, blood, thyroid)
- Cardiovascular diseases (heart attacks, hypertension)
Bellwether trials
Bellwether trials are scheduled for late 2026, with specific dates such as September 15, 2026, and additional dates in October and November 2026. The process involves court-led selection from an initial pool, with some cases already designated as bellwethers. Ongoing planning and scheduling are confirmed by court documents and legal updates.
Settlement landscape
Recent verdicts include a $7 billion final damages award related to 9/11 victims, including a $1.8 billion default judgment against Iran. Settlement estimates for individual claims vary widely, with non-economic loss awards ranging from $10,000 to over $340,000. The overall payout from the VCF as of late 2025 is approximately $14.9 billion distributed among victims and families. Specific case values in MDL-1570 can reach hundreds of millions of dollars, depending on injury severity and claim type.
Lead counsel
- Ronald L. Motley (deceased), Motley Rice LLC
- Jodi Westbrook Flowers, Motley Rice LLC
- Donald A. Migliori, Motley Rice LLC
- Robert T. Haefele, Motley Rice LLC
- Stephen A. Cozen, Cozen O’Connor
- Sean P. Carter, Cozen O’Connor
- J. Scott Tarbutton, Cozen O’Connor
- Frank H. Granito, III, Speiser Krause, PC
- Jeanne O’Grady, Speiser Krause, PC
- Michel F. Baumeister, Baumeister & Samuels, P.C.
- Dorothea M. Capone, Baumeister & Samuels, P.C.
- Dennis G. Pantazis, Wiggins Childs Pantazis Fisher Goldfarb LLC
- Douglass A. Mitchell, Jenner & Block
- Jerry S. Goldman, Anderson Kill P.C.
- Bruce Strong, Anderson Kill P.C.
- James P. Kreindler, Kreindler & Kreindler LLP
- Steven R. Pounian, Kreindler & Kreindler LLP
- Megan W. Benet, Kreindler & Kreindler LLP
This page is generated from the official JPML pending-MDL report and public court records, refreshed monthly. It is provided for attorney reference and is not legal advice.
