Asbestos and Mesothelioma Claims
Asbestos-related victims could be eligible for financial compensation. However, claims can involve lengthy legal procedures.
Companies that produced and utilized asbestos were aware that the material could cause serious health problems. Many victims have died as a result of this omission. An experienced attorney can help victims and their families pursue justice.
Exposure to Occupational Hazards
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer, affects the linings of the lung (pleural mesothelioma) as well as the stomach (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the testicles (pericardial msothelioma). The main reason for this is asbestos exposure in the workplace. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral comprised of tough, microscopic fibers. It was used in thousands of residential, industrial and commercial products between the 1930s and the 1980s as it was resistant to water, fire, sound and corrosion. The makers of asbestos-based materials were aware of the health hazards, but they concealed this information from the public.
People who handled asbestos that was raw, worked in asbestos manufacturing or who work in areas that expose them to asbestos on a regular basis are at risk for mesothelioma. Asbestos remains in older homes, buildings and vehicles. Asbestos is often brought home by those who live or work near those who work there, and it could cause harm to people who are in close proximity. This second exposure is referred to as take-home exposure. It exposes family members to risk, such spouses and children.
Other occupations that are related to mesothelioma include shipyard workers, coal miners asbestos removal experts, and those who work on demolition or construction sites. Mesothelioma can also pose a threat for people who repair or service aircraft. These include mechanics, pilots and others who work on engines brakes, adhesives, insulation and other aircraft-related materials. Military and veterans also are at risk for mesothelioma more frequently, as asbestos was heavily used in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Army between 1940 until 1979. This includes those stationed at Camp Lejeune where veterans were exposed to asbestos through the insulation of vehicles and ships, and fireproofing materials, as well as other chemicals that pose a risk.
Second-Hand Exposure
Asbestos workers brought asbestos into their homes on their clothing and shoes. This exposed their spouses, their children, and other family members. Secondhand exposure to asbestos is referred as indirect or secondary exposure. It's just as dangerous as exposure to asbestos that is firsthand.
Mesothelioma can be described as a cancer that originates from the tissue that lines a few organs in your body, called mesothelium. The majority of cases of mesothelioma develop in the lung's lining called pleura, but it may also begin in the chest cavity's lining or abdomen, or in other organs. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium, and when cell mutations occur, it leads to the development of masses or tumors.
Typically, symptoms of mesothelioma do not appear until decades after an asbestos exposure. This is the reason it's difficult to pinpoint what caused your condition - especially if you've suffered from asbestos exposure in multiple places.
Asbestos victims can file asbestos lawsuits or trust fund claims to receive compensation for their ailments. Asbestos-related ailments can also be claimed by asbestos victims. It is essential to speak with an experienced asbestos lawyer to ensure that you get all the compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm for more details about mesothelioma and filing an asbestos lawsuit. Our lawyers have handled complex cases of this nature and recovered millions for clients across the United States. We will review your case for free and discuss all options available to you. Contact us today to set up your complimentary consultation. We provide compassionate and individualized treatment to our clients in Florida, California, New Jersey and Washington, D.C.
Wrongful Death
Asbestos fibres can stay in the lungs for several years after inhalation. In time, this can lead to growth of cancerous cells and other diseases. It takes an extended time for the symptoms to show up however once they do they tend to progress very quickly.
Asbestos is a natural mineral composed of strong, microscopic fibers, was used in a variety of building materials. It was extensively 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 however, they concealed the dangers from the general public.
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the lining of certain organs and cavities within the body. It is typically caused by asbestos exposure, and can affect the lungs as well as the abdomen, heart and other areas of your body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common rate of mesothelioma. It is most often found in the chest wall, lungs and abdomen.
There are a variety of mesothelioma derived from asbestos. However they are all related to exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that, like other types is caused by a mutation in a cell's genetic code. It is usually more difficult to detect than other types of cancer, as the first symptoms are often mistaken as respiratory ailments, like a chronic cough or changes in the shape of the fingers and nails (finger clubbing).
There are no known mesothelioma-related risk factors. The only way to avoid mesothelioma is to never come into contact with asbestos. You can do this by supporting the efforts to ban asbestos, or by contact Congress and asking them to support legislation that prohibits the use asbestos in the construction of new materials.
VA Benefits
Veterans suffering from asbestos-related illnesses or mesothelioma may be qualified for compensation. These benefits may help pay for living expenses and treatment. Compensation can be received from the Department of Veteran Affairs or an asbestos trust fund. VA claims can be a great resource for asbestos victims and their families.
Asbestos victims, and their families, must initiate a claim right away to receive the maximum compensation. A mesothelioma attorney can help in this process by ensuring that all documents are filed. This includes a mesothelioma-related diagnosis and medical records showing exposure to asbestos. It is recommended for patients to have periodic x-rays or CT scans to monitor the condition.
Many veterans from all branches of the military have filed mesothelioma lawsuits. However, Navy veterans have the highest percentage of cases due to the fact that asbestos was used heavily in the Navy. In order for veterans to receive compensation they must prove that their condition is directly linked to their exposure to asbestos. This can be difficult because asbestos-related illnesses typically manifest for years after exposure.
The VA recognizes asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma and cancer. It also recognizes diseases that are not malignant, such as asbestosis and pleural thickening. These conditions all share an underlying link: exposure to asbestos.
In addition to financial compensation, veterans should also pursue mesothelioma treatments as soon as possible. Early treatment can improve outcomes. In Florida, mesothelioma patients can receive treatment from a specialist at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is an hour away from the Miami VA Medical Center. Veterans who are unable to leave their homes can receive mesothelioma-related treatments outside of the VA system by enrolling in a homebound program.
Workers' Compensation
Mesothelioma victims and their loved ones require financial compensation to cover expensive medical treatments and loss of income and other expenses. Many people also have health insurance or workers' compensation coverage which can cover a portion of the costs. A mesothelioma lawyer can help asbestos patients learn about their options and file for insurance.
Some people may be eligible for multiple sources of compensation, including mesothelioma settlements in lawsuits and trust fund awards and VA claims. A mesothelioma lawyer can help patients identify the most effective compensation sources to ensure they get the full amount of compensation they deserve.
A mesothelioma lawyer who is experienced is familiar with the filing of all asbestos-related claims. They will manage all aspects of the legal process while a patient or family members focus on their treatment. A lawyer can also explain the advantages of pursuing an estate claim to protect assets to meet future requirements.
A person can bring a lawsuit against an asbestos company to recover mesothelioma. The result is a trial that can result in a jury verdict or mesothelioma settlement. Most asbestos victims would rather accept a settlement than go to trial.
Mesothelioma lawsuits typically result in significant financial awards for the families of victims. For instance, in a recent case in which a jury awarded $740 million to the victim of mesothelioma caused by exposure to Johnson & Johnson baby powder.
Workers compensation or VA claims are a way to obtain compensation for the families of victims in addition to the possibility of a lawsuit. Gastonia asbestos lawyer who have developed asbestos-related illnesses due to their military service are more likely to file VA claims. Special monthly compensation, also known as aid and attendance pay is available to veterans who need assistance with daily activities and for the cost of home care.