Asbestos and Mesothelioma Claims
Asbestos victims may be eligible for financial compensation. However, claims can involve lengthy legal proceedings.
Companies that made and used asbestos were aware that the substance could cause serious health issues. Many victims have died because of the negligence of asbestos manufacturers. An experienced lawyer can help victims and their families pursue justice.
Occupational Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer that affects the lining of the lung (pleural mesothelioma), stomach (peritoneal mesothelioma) or testicles (pericardial mesothelioma). The main reason for this is asbestos exposure in the workplace. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of tough, microscopic fibers. It was used in thousands of industrial, residential and commercial products between 1930s and 1980s due to the fact that it was resistant to fire, water, sound and corrosion. The makers of asbestos-based materials were aware of the health risks, however, they kept this information from the general public.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who handle asbestos in its raw form or work in asbestos manufacturing and are frequently exposed to asbestos. Today, asbestos can still be found in older buildings as well as in vehicles, homes and even in the interior of buildings. People who work or live with those in these occupations also risk their health as they may bring asbestos home on their clothing and equipment. This second exposure is known as take-home exposure. It puts family members, including spouses and children at risk.
Shipyard workers, coal miner asbestos removal experts and those who work on demolition or construction sites are also at risk. Mesothelioma is also a risk for people who repair or service aircraft. mechanics, pilots and other workers who work with brakes, engines or other materials for aircraft, such as adhesives insulation, adhesives, and other materials are at risk. Military personnel and veterans are also at higher chance of developing mesothelioma because asbestos was heavily used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps between 1940 and 1979. This includes those who were stationed at Camp Lejeune where veterans were exposed to asbestos via the insulation of vehicles and ships, and fireproofing materials and other chemicals that pose a risk.
Second-Hand Exposure
Asbestos workers brought asbestos into their homes on their clothes and shoes. They also exposed their spouses, their children, and other family members. This type of secondhand exposure is known as indirect or secondary exposure to asbestos. It is, however, the same risk as exposure to asbestos from firsthand sources.
The cancerous tissue that surrounds certain organs in the body, referred to as mesothelium, is responsible for developing Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining lining the lung (pleura) however it may also occur in the lining of the abdomen, chest cavity, or other organs. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium, and when cell mutations occur it causes the formation of tumors or masses.
The symptoms of mesothelioma typically do not appear for decades after asbestos exposure. It is difficult to determine the source of your disease, especially when asbestos exposure has occurred in multiple locations.
Asbestos-related diseases can be compensated through filing asbestos lawsuits or trust funds claims. Asbestos-related ailments can also be claimed by asbestos victims. It is crucial to contact an experienced asbestos lawyer to ensure that you get the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. Contact our law firm to learn more about mesothelioma and filing an asbestos lawsuit. Our lawyers are skilled in handling these types of complex cases and have recovered millions of dollars for clients across the nation. We will analyze your case and show you all of the options available. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation. We provide services to clients across the country, including Florida, California, New Jersey and Washington, D.C. We are committed to providing caring and personalized service to our clients.
Wrongful Death
Asbestos fibres can remain in the lungs for a number of years after inhalation. In time, this can lead to formation of cancerous cells as well as other diseases. The symptoms could take some time to show but they can develop quickly when they do.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is composed of microscopic, strong fibres which were once employed in a variety of construction materials. It was extensively employed from the 1930s until the early 1980s since it was resistant to fire and also resisted sound, water, and heat. The manufacturers of asbestos-based products knew that it was dangerous but hid the dangers from the general public.
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer is a disease that affects the linings and tissues of certain organs or cavities in the human body. It is typically caused by asbestos exposure and can affect the lungs, as well as the abdomen, the heart and other parts of your body. The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which is primarily found in the chest wall and lungs.
There are a variety of mesothelioma types, but all are linked to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that, like other types is caused by the mutation of the genetic code of cells. It's generally more difficult to identify than other types of cancer, as the early symptoms can be mistaken for respiratory or lung conditions, such as a chronic cough or changes in the shape of the fingers and nails (finger clubbing).
There are no known mesothelioma risk factors. To avoid developing mesothelioma, one should avoid contact with asbestos. This can be accomplished by supporting the efforts to ban asbestos or by contact your congressperson soliciting them to support legislation that ban asbestos use in construction materials that are new.
VA Benefits
Patients suffering from mesothelioma or other asbestos illnesses may qualify for compensation. These benefits assist with expenses for living and treatment. Compensation can be received from the Department of Veteran Affairs or an asbestos trust fund. VA claims are a great source for asbestos victims and their families.
Asbestos victims, as well as their families, must make a claim as soon as possible to receive the maximum amount of compensation. A mesothelioma lawyer will assist with this process, ensuring all necessary documents are submitted. This includes a mesothelioma diagnosis and medical records that demonstrate asbestos exposure. It is also helpful for victims to receive periodic x-rays and CT scans to check their condition.
Many veterans from all branches of the military have filed mesothelioma claims. However, Navy veterans have the highest number of cases because asbestos was extensively used in the Navy. Veterans must prove that their illness is directly linked to their exposure to asbestos in order to be compensated. This can be difficult because asbestos-related illnesses often develop decades after exposure.
The VA recognizes asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. It also recognizes benign conditions such as asbestosis, pleural thickening, peritoneal effusion, and atelectasis. All of these conditions share a common link--exposure to asbestos.
In addition asbestos claim mesothelioma to financial compensation, veterans should pursue mesothelioma treatments as soon as they can. Early treatment has been shown to improve the outcome. In Florida mesothelioma patients are able to get treatment from an expert at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. This center is only a short distance from the Miami VA Medical Center. Veterans who are unable leave their homes can avail mesothelioma-related treatments outside of the VA system by enrolling in the homebound program.
Workers' Compensation
Mesothelioma patients and their families need financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other costs. Many people have workers insurance or health insurance that could pay for some of these expenses. An attorney for mesothelioma can help asbestos victims learn about their options and apply for insurance.
Individuals may be eligible for a variety of sources of compensation, like mesothelioma lawsuit settlements as well as trust fund awards and VA claims. A mesothelioma attorney can help patients determine the best compensation sources to ensure that they get the full amount of compensation they deserve.
A mesothelioma attorney skilled in asbestos claims will handle all aspects of the legal process, allowing the family members of patients to concentrate on their treatment. A lawyer can explain the benefits of filing an estate claim to protect assets that will be needed for future needs.
A person may make a mesothelioma lawsuit against an asbestos company. This may result in an appeal that could lead to the verdict of the jury or a mesothelioma agreement. Most asbestos victims would rather accept a settlement instead of going to trial.
Mesothelioma lawsuits typically result in large financial settlements for the victims and their families. For instance, in a recent case, a jury awarded $740 million to a patient of mesothelioma resulting from exposure to Johnson & Johnson baby powder.
In addition to a mesothelioma lawsuit the victims and their loved ones can also seek compensation through workers' compensation or VA claims. VA claims are usually made for veterans who develop asbestos-related illnesses as a result of military service. Veterans who require help with daily chores and home care can receive special monthly compensation (also called aid and attendance pay).