Asbestos and Mesothelioma Claims
Asbestos-related injuries could qualify for compensation. However, claims could involve lengthy legal procedures.
Companies that manufactured and used asbestos knew that the dangers of asbestos could lead to serious health problems. This lack of awareness has led to the death of many victims. A skilled attorney can assist victims and their families pursue justice.
Occupational Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, which is a rare and deadly form of cancer that affects the linings of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), the stomach (peritoneal msothelioma), or the testicles (pericardial mesothelioma). It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos in the workplace. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of tough, microscopic fibers. From the 1930s until the 1980s, asbestos was used in a myriad of residential, industrial commercial and residential products due to its resistance to water, fire and corrosion. The manufacturers of asbestos-based products were aware of the health risks, however, they kept this information from the public.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among people who handle raw asbestos, work in asbestos manufacturing and are frequently exposed to asbestos. As of today, asbestos can be found in older buildings as well as in vehicles, homes and even in the interior of buildings. People who live or work with those in these occupations also face risk as they can bring home asbestos on their clothing and equipment. This second exposure is referred to as take-home exposure. It puts family members at risk, such spouses and children.
Shipyard workers, coal miner, asbestos removal experts and those working on demolition or construction sites are also at risk. Repair or maintenance of aircraft are at a high risk for mesothelioma as well. Pilots, mechanics, and others who work with engines, brakes or other aircraft components including adhesives, insulation, and adhesives are at risk. Military personnel and veterans are also at a higher risk of mesothelioma, since asbestos was extensively used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps between 1940 between 1940 and 1979. This includes those who were stationed at Camp Lejeune where veterans were exposed to asbestos via ship and vehicle insulation and fireproofing materials, as well as other toxic chemicals.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos workers often brought asbestos home on their clothes and shoes, exposing spouses, children, and other family members to the toxic carcinogen. The secondhand exposure to asbestos is referred as indirect or secondary exposure. It is just as hazardous as exposure to asbestos that is firsthand.
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that arises from the tissue that lines some organs inside your body, known as mesothelium. The majority of cases of mesothelioma start in the lining of the lung called pleura, but it may also begin in the lining of the chest cavity or abdomen, as well as other organs. Inhaled asbestos fibres can irritate the mesothelium. Cellular mutations then result in masses or tumors to develop.
Typically, symptoms of mesothelioma are not evident until years after an asbestos exposure. It is difficult to determine the root of your disease, especially if asbestos exposure has occurred in multiple locations.
Asbestos-related ailments can be compensated by filing asbestos lawsuits or trust fund claims. Asbestos-related ailments can also be claimed by asbestos-related victims. Contacting an asbestos lawyer will ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to. For more information about mesothelioma or filing an asbestos lawsuit, please contact our law firm today. Our lawyers are experienced in handling these kinds of complex cases and have secured millions for clients throughout the nation. We will examine your case at no cost and provide you with all the options that are available to you. Contact us today to set up your free consultation. We provide compassionate and individualized treatment to our clients in Florida, California, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C.
Wrongful Death
When asbestos fibres are inhaled, they get stuck in the lungs, where they can stay for years. Over time this can lead to the development of cancerous cells and other diseases. It takes some time for symptoms to show up however once they do they tend to develop very quickly.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally composed of tough, microscopic fibers, was once utilized in a variety of construction materials. It was widely used between the 1930s and the beginning of the 1980s, because it was resistant to heat, sound, and water. Makers of asbestos-based products knew it was hazardous but hid the risks from the public.
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that can affect the lining of certain organs and cavities in the body. It is usually caused by exposure to asbestos. It can impact the lungs, heart, abdomen as well as other parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma form is called mesothelioma pleural that is found primarily in the lungs and chest wall.
There are many mesothelioma types, however, all are connected to asbestos exposure. Like other cancers mesothelioma develops by DNA changes and then begins to multiply unchecked. It's generally more difficult to identify than other types of cancer, as the first symptoms are often mistaken for respiratory or lung illnesses, such as chronic cough, or changes in the shape of the fingers and nails (finger clubbing).
There are no known risk factors for mesothelioma. The only way to prevent mesothelioma is to never come in contact with asbestos. This can be accomplished by assisting the efforts to ban asbestos, or by contact your congressperson asking them to support laws that ban asbestos use in construction materials of the future.
VA Benefits
Veterans suffering from mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses could be eligible for compensation. These benefits can help pay for living expenses and treatment. Compensation is offered by the Department of Veteran Affairs, or an asbestos trust. Asbestos victims and their families are able to receive assistance in navigating the VA claim process.
Asbestos victims and their loved relatives must file a claim as soon as possible in order to ensure they receive the most amount of compensation that is available. A mesothelioma lawyer can assist in this process, making sure all the necessary documents are submitted. This includes a mesothelioma diagnosis and medical records proving exposure to asbestos. It is also helpful for patients to undergo regular x-rays and CT scans to track their condition.
Veterans from all branches have filed mesothelioma lawsuits. However, Navy veterans have the highest percentage of cases due asbestos claims payouts to the fact that asbestos was extensively used in the Navy. Veterans must prove that their illness is directly linked to their asbestos exposure in order to claim compensation. This isn't easy since asbestos-related illnesses typically manifest for years after exposure.
The VA recognizes asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma and cancer. It also recognizes conditions that aren't malignant like asbestosis and pleural thickening. All of these conditions have the same cause: exposure to asbestos.
Veterans should seek mesothelioma treatment as soon as they can and also receive financial compensation. Early treatment has been proven to improve outcomes. Patients with mesothelioma in Florida can be treated by specialists at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is just located just a few minutes away from the Miami VA Medical Center. For those who are unable to leave their homes the homebound program allows veterans to receive mesothelioma treatments from outside the VA system.
Workers' Compensation
Mesothelioma victims and their loved ones need financial compensation to cover expensive medical treatments as well as loss of income and other expenses. Many people also have health insurance or workers' compensation coverage that can help pay for some of the expenses. An attorney for mesothelioma can help asbestos victims understand their options and apply for insurance.
People may qualify for multiple sources of compensation, including mesothelioma lawsuit settlements, trust fund awards, and VA claims. A mesothelioma lawyer can help patients identify the most appropriate sources of compensation so that they get the maximum amount they deserve.
A mesothelioma lawyer who is skilled in asbestos claims will handle all aspects of the legal process, allowing the family members of patients to concentrate on treatment. A lawyer can also discuss the benefits of pursuing a claim for estate to protect assets for a patient's future needs.
A person may file a lawsuit against an asbestos company to recover mesothelioma. The result is an investigation that could result in a verdict by a jury or mesothelioma settlement. Most asbestos victims prefer to accept a settlement and avoid a trial.
Mesothelioma lawsuits often result in substantial financial awards for families of the victims. For example, 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 victims and their families can also seek compensation through workers' compensation or VA claims. Veterans who have been diagnosed with asbestos-related ailments as a result of their service in the military are more likely to submit VA claims. Veterans who require assistance with daily tasks and home care are eligible for a special monthly payment (also known as aid and attendance pay).