Sailors Sue Over Radiation Exposure

- December 28, 2012

Eight U.S. sailors who helped with earthquake relief efforts in Japan in 2011 have filed suit in U.S. federal court against Tokyo Electric Power Co. over radiation exposure.

The lawsuit claims that Tepco, the owner of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant that was damaged in the earthquake and resulting tsunami, failed to warn the public about the risk of radiation exposure.

Each plaintiff is seeking $10 million in compensatory damages, $30 million in punitive damages, and the establishment of a $100 million fund to cover the cost of their medical expenses.

The company faces billions of dollars in lawsuits related to radiation leaks at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant after the earthquake.