Asbestos and Mesothelioma Claims
Asbestos-related injuries can be eligible for compensation. However, claims may require lengthy legal processes.
Companies that made and used asbestos were aware that the dangers of asbestos could lead to serious health problems. Many victims have died because of this negligence. A skilled attorney can help victims and their families in seeking justice.
Exposure to Work
Malignant mesothelioma, a rare and deadly type of cancer that affects the linings of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), the stomach (peritoneal mesothelioma), or the testicles (pericardial msothelioma). The main cause is asbestos exposure during occupational work. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally is made up of microscopic and strong fibers. From the 1930s until the 1980s, asbestos was used in a variety of residential, industrial commercial and residential products due to its resistance to fire, water and corrosion. The manufacturers of asbestos-based products were aware of the health risks associated with asbestos lawsuits, but kept this information from the public.
The people who handled asbestos in raw form and worked in asbestos product manufacturing and those who work in areas that expose them to asbestos regularly have the highest risk for mesothelioma. Asbestos can still be found in older buildings, homes and vehicles. Asbestos is often brought home by people who live or work close to those who work there, and it can cause harm to those who live close to them. This is referred to as take-home exposure and puts family members, such as spouses and children, at risk.
Other occupations that are linked to mesothelioma are shipyard workers, coal miners, asbestos removal experts and those who work on construction or demolition sites. Mesothelioma can also pose a threat for people who repair or service aircraft. Pilots, mechanics, and others who work with brakes, engines or other aircraft materials, such as adhesives insulation, adhesives, and other materials are at risk. Military and veterans are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma since asbestos was heavily used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps between 1940 and 1979. This includes those stationed at Camp Lejeune, where veterans were exposed to asbestos from the insulation of vehicles and ships products, fireproofing and other hazardous chemicals.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos workers ingested asbestos into their homes, on their clothes and shoes. They also exposed their spouses, their children, as well as other family members. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary or indirect exposure to asbestos. It is just as hazardous as firsthand asbestos exposure.
The cancerous tissue that lines certain organs of the body, also known as mesothelium, is responsible for developing Mesothelioma. The majority of cases of mesothelioma develop in the lung's lining, called pleura, but it may also begin in the lining of the chest cavity or abdomen, or in other organs. Inhaling asbestos fibers may cause irritation to mesothelium, and when cellular changes occur, it triggers the formation of tumors or masses.
Typically, mesothelioma-related symptoms are not evident until years after exposure to asbestos. It can be difficult to determine the root of your illness, especially when asbestos exposure occurred in multiple locations.
Asbestos victims can file asbestos lawsuits or trust fund claims to be compensated for their diseases. Asbestos-related diseases can also be claimed by asbestos-related victims. A lawyer for asbestos will ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to. Contact our law firm for more information regarding mesothelioma as well as filing an asbestos lawsuit. Our lawyers have handled complicated cases of this nature and have recovered millions of dollars for clients across the United States. We will review your case and explain to you all of the options that are available. Contact us today to set up your free consultation. We provide individualized and compassionate treatment to our clients in Florida, California, New Jersey and Washington, D.C.
Wrongful Death
Asbestos fibres can stay in the lungs for many years after inhalation. As time passes, this can lead to development of cancerous cells and other illnesses. It takes some time for symptoms to appear however once they do, they tend to grow rapidly.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally comprised of strong, microscopic fibers, was used in many construction materials. It was widely used from the 1930s and the early 1980s because it was resistant to sound, heat and water. The manufacturers of asbestos-based products knew it was a risk, but concealed those risks from the general public.
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that can affect the lining of certain organs and cavities within the body. It is typically caused by exposure to asbestos. It can impact the lungs, the abdomen, the heart, and other parts of the body. The most prevalent form of mesothelioma is mesothelioma of the pleura that is most often found in the chest wall and lungs.
There are many different types of mesothelioma, but all are related to asbestos exposure. Like other forms of cancer, mesothelioma is caused when a cell's DNA experiences mutations and begins to grow without being checked. It is difficult to identify because the early symptoms are often mistaken for other respiratory and lung conditions.
Although there are risk factors that increase the likelihood of mesothelioma development but none of these can be prevented. The only way to prevent mesothelioma is to never come in contact with asbestos. This can be accomplished by supporting 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
Patients suffering from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses could be eligible for compensation. These benefits can help pay for the cost of living and treatment. Compensation can be obtained from the Department of Veteran Affairs or an asbestos trust fund. VA claims are a great source for asbestos victims and their families.
Asbestos sufferers, and their families, must make a claim as soon as possible to receive the maximum amount of compensation. A mesothelioma lawyer can help in this process, making sure that all required documents are filed. This includes a mesothelioma diagnosis and medical records that show asbestos exposure. It is helpful for victims to regularly undergo x-rays and CT scans to check for the condition.
Many veterans from all branches of the military have filed mesothelioma claims. The majority of cases are filed by Navy veterans, because asbestos was extensively employed in the Navy. In order for veterans to receive compensation, they must prove their condition is directly linked to their exposure to asbestos. Asbest-related diseases often develop decades after exposure.
The VA recognizes asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. It also recognizes conditions that are not malignant, such as asbestosis and pleural thickening. These conditions all share a common link--exposure to asbestos.
In addition to financial compensation, veterans should seek mesothelioma treatment as soon as possible. Early treatment has been proven to increase the chances of success. In Florida, mesothelioma patients can get treatment from specialists at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. This facility is only a short distance from the Miami VA Medical Center. Veterans who are unable to leave their homes can receive mesothelioma treatment outside of the VA system by enrolling in an in-home program.
Workers' Compensation
Mesothelioma patients and their families need financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income and other expenses. Many people also have health insurance or workers' compensation coverage which can cover a portion of the costs. An attorney for mesothelioma can assist asbestos victims to understand their options and file 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 lawyer can help patients identify the most effective sources of compensation so that they get the amount they deserve.
A mesothelioma lawyer who is experienced is well-versed in filing all kinds of asbestos-related claims and will handle every aspect of the legal process while the patient or family members focus on their treatment. A lawyer can also explain the benefits of pursuing a claim for estate to safeguard assets for a patient's future requirements.
A person can make a mesothelioma lawsuit against an asbestos attorneys-related company. This could lead to a trial that could result in an outcome by a jury or a mesothelioma deal. The majority of asbestos patients would prefer to accept a settlement instead of going to trial.
Mesothelioma suits often result in substantial financial awards for the victims as well as their families. For instance, in a recent case the jury awarded $740 million to a victim of mesothelioma that was caused by exposure to Johnson & Johnson baby powder.
Workers Compensation or VA claims can be used to seek compensation for the families of victims in addition to a lawsuit. VA claims are usually filed by veterans who have developed asbestos-related illnesses as a result of military service. Veterans who require assistance with daily chores and home care may be eligible for special monthly compensation (also known as aid and attendance pay).