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Mass tort lawsuits are a legal process where large groups of plaintiffs file lawsuits against one or more defendants for similar harm caused by the same products, devices, or actions. As 2025 approaches, several mass tort cases are expected to gain momentum due to rising awareness, medical discoveries, and increasing claims from affected individuals. Here are six key mass torts to watch in 2025:
Baby Formula and Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a dangerous gastrointestinal condition that primarily affects premature infants. Studies have found that preterm babies fed cow’s milk-based formula, such as Enfamil or Similac, are at a significantly higher risk of developing NEC compared to babies who are exclusively breastfed. The lawsuits claim that these formula manufacturers failed to adequately warn consumers about the potential dangers, leading to numerous cases of severe health issues and even fatalities.
Families affected by NEC are pursuing legal action against formula manufacturers, and with mounting evidence linking baby formulas to the condition, this mass tort is expected to grow as more victims come forward in 2025.
Rideshare Driver Abuse and Assault
As ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft continue to dominate transportation, there has been an increase in lawsuits related to driver abuse and assault, particularly sexual assault. Plaintiffs claim that these companies have not implemented adequate safety measures, leaving passengers vulnerable. Victims are suing both rideshare companies and individual drivers for physical and emotional damages caused by assaults during rides.
The litigation has already led to several settlements, and as more cases come forward, this mass tort could see a substantial expansion, with calls for stricter industry regulations.
GLP-1 Agonists Severe Side Effects
Medications like Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly used for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss, have been linked to severe gastrointestinal issues, including gastroparesis (stomach paralysis). Patients using these drugs have reported severe, long-term digestive problems, including the inability to properly digest food. Lawsuits are being filed against the manufacturers of Ozempic and similar drugs, alleging that they failed to warn patients and healthcare providers of these potential side effects. Based on the prevalence of these drugs, it is expected that the litigation surrounding GLP-1 agonists is expected to see more growth in 2025.
Roundup Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Lawsuits
Roundup, a widely used herbicide manufactured by Bayer (formerly Monsanto), has been linked to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers. Despite Bayer settling previous cases, new claims continue to emerge. Plaintiffs argue that the company failed to provide adequate warnings about the cancer risks associated with glyphosate, Roundup’s active ingredient.
Although some major settlements have already been reached, fresh litigation and upcoming trials are expected to drive the mass tort forward in 2025, especially as new evidence on the harmful effects of Roundup comes to light.
Depo-Provera and Meningioma Connection
The Depo-Provera mass tort lawsuits have gained traction in 2024 as individuals allege the popular contraceptive is linked to the development of meningiomas—benign but potentially life-threatening brain tumors. Plaintiffs claim that Pfizer, the manufacturer, failed to adequately warn consumers and healthcare providers about the risks associated with prolonged use of Depo-Provera, especially at higher doses. Meningiomas, while typically non-cancerous, can cause severe neurological complications, including vision problems, seizures, and memory loss, depending on their size and location.
These lawsuits focus on Pfizer’s alleged negligence in failing to disclose known risks and the potential for harm. The cases are bolstered by studies suggesting a correlation between extended Depo-Provera use and an increased incidence of meningiomas, particularly in women with long-term exposure. As the litigation unfolds, it is expected to address key questions around Pfizer’s awareness of these risks, the adequacy of its warnings, and potential compensation for affected individuals. The outcomes of these lawsuits could influence regulatory practices and corporate accountability in the pharmaceutical industry.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Mass Torts
As we move into a new year, mass tort litigation is set to grow in prominence, driven by cases involving both established and emerging issues in healthcare, consumer products, and environmental safety. From the ongoing lawsuits tied to NEC and baby formula to the increasingly high-profile claims regarding rideshare driver abuse, these cases highlight significant risks that affect a wide range of people. Legal experts predict that the outcomes of these cases will not only determine compensation for victims but also influence industry practices and regulations.
These mass torts reflect broader trends in consumer awareness, corporate accountability, and the demand for safety and transparency. Whether it’s the dangers posed by toxic herbicides like Roundup and Paraquat or potential health risks from popular drugs like Ozempic, the legal battles ahead will shape how companies address safety concerns and communicate risks to consumers. As more individuals file claims, these mass torts could lead to monumental changes in industries that impact millions of lives.
As mass tort cases expand and evolve, plaintiffs’ lawyers will play a crucial role in ensuring that affected individuals receive justice. Many of these large-scale cases will continue to be handled through multidistrict litigation (MDL), which offers an efficient way to manage pretrial proceedings and move pending cases toward resolution. Law firms specializing in mass torts are expected to face growing demand as more victims seek representation in cases involving defective products, pharmaceuticals, and other dangerous consumer goods. In 2025 and beyond, the collaboration between experienced law firms and plaintiffs’ attorneys will be essential for navigating the complexities of MDL, pushing for fair settlements, and holding corporations accountable for the harm caused.