Asbestos and Mesothelioma Claims
Asbestos-related injuries may be eligible for compensation. The claims process can be complex and can require lengthy legal proceedings.
Companies that produced and used asbestos were aware that the dangers of asbestos could lead to serious health issues. Many victims have died because of the negligence of asbestos manufacturers. An experienced attorney can aid victims and their families in pursuing justice.
Exposure to Occupational Hazards
Malignant mesothelioma, which is a rare and deadly form of cancer that affects the linings of the lung (pleural mesothelioma), the stomach (peritoneal msothelioma) or the testicles (pericardial msothelioma). The primary cause is occupational asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of microscopic, strong fibers. Between the 1930s to 1980s, it was used in a variety of residential, industrial commercial, and industrial products due to its resistance to water, fire and corrosion. The manufacturers of asbestos-based products were aware of its health risks but hid this information from the public.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who handle asbestos in its raw form, work in asbestos product manufacture and those who are frequently exposed to asbestos. Asbestos can still be found in older homes, buildings and vehicles. Asbestos can be ingested by people who live or work near these workers, and it can cause harm to those who live in close proximity. This second exposure is referred to as take-home exposure, and exposes family members to risk, including spouses and children.
Other jobs that are connected to mesothelioma comprise coal miners, shipyard workers, asbestos removal experts and those who work on construction or demolition sites. People who repair or service aircraft are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma too. This includes pilots, mechanics and others who work on engines brakes, adhesives and brakes insulation and other aircraft-related materials. Military and veterans are also at higher risk of mesothelioma, since asbestos was extensively used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps between 1940 and 1979. This includes those who worked at Camp Lejeune, where veterans were exposed to asbestos from vehicle and ship insulation products, fireproofing and other chemicals that could be hazardous.
Second-Hand Exposure
Asbestos workers brought asbestos into their homes on their shoes and clothing. This exposed their spouses, children, and other family members. This secondhand exposure to asbestos is referred as indirect or secondary exposure. Unfortunately, it is exactly as hazardous as firsthand exposure.
The cancerous tissue that lines certain organs in the body, also known as mesothelium, is the reason for the development of Mesothelioma. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the lining of the lung called pleura, but it can also start in the lining of the chest cavity, abdomen or other organs. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and when cellular mutations occur it causes the development of tumors or masses.
Symptoms of mesothelioma usually are not evident for a long time after exposure to asbestos. It can be difficult to determine the source of your illness, especially when asbestos exposure has occurred in more than one location.
Asbestos-related ailments can be compensated through filing asbestos lawsuits or trust fund claims. Asbestos victims can also request VA benefits for their asbestos-related conditions. Contacting an asbestos lawyer will ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Contact our law firm for more information about mesothelioma, and to file an asbestos lawsuit. Our lawyers have experience handling these types of complex cases and have secured millions for clients throughout the nation. We will analyze your case and explain to you all the options that are available. Contact us today to set up your complimentary consultation. We provide asbestos exposure claim individualized and compassionate treatment to our clients in Florida, California, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C.
Wrongful Death
When asbestos fibres are breathed in, they are absorbed into the lungs, where they can persist for years. This can lead to cancerous cells or other illnesses in the course of time. It takes a long time for symptoms to show up, but once they do, they tend to develop very quickly.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally made up of tough, microscopic fibers, was used in many construction 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 a risk but hid the risks from the public.
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the lining of certain organs and cavities in the body. It is usually caused by asbestos exposure and can affect the lungs, as well as the abdomen, heart and other parts of your body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common rate of mesothelioma. It is typically found in the chest wall, lungs and abdomen.
There are many different types of mesothelioma that are asbestos-related. However, they are all linked to exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma, as with other cancers, is caused by an alteration in the genetic code of cells. It is difficult to identify because the first signs are often mistaken for other respiratory and lung conditions.
There are no preventable risk factors for mesothelioma. To avoid mesothelioma, you should avoid contact with asbestos. You can do this by assisting the efforts of banning asbestos, or by calling Congress and asking them to pass legislation that prohibits the use of asbestos in building materials that are new.
VA Benefits
Veterans suffering from asbestos-related diseases or mesothelioma might be qualified for compensation. These benefits can help pay for expenses for living and treatment. Compensation can be obtained 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 family ones must make a claim as quickly as possible to ensure they receive the maximum compensation available. An attorney for mesothelioma can assist in this process by ensuring that all documents are filed. This includes a mesothelioma diagnosis and medical records that show asbestos exposure. It is also beneficial for patients to undergo regular x-rays and CT scans to monitor their health.
Veterans from all branches have filed mesothelioma lawsuits. Most cases are filed by Navy veterans due to asbestos, which was widely employed in the Navy. To be eligible to be compensated they must show that their condition is directly linked to their exposure to asbestos. Asbest-related diseases often develop decades after exposure.
The VA recognizes asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma or lung cancer. It also recognizes non-malignant conditions such as asbestosis, the pleural thickening process, peritoneal effusion and atelectasis. These conditions all have a common link--exposure to asbestos.
Veterans should seek treatment for mesothelioma as soon as they can and also receive financial compensation. Early treatment has been proven to improve the outcome. In Florida mesothelioma patients are able to receive treatment from a specialist at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is a short distance from the Miami VA Medical Center. Veterans who are unable leave their homes can receive mesothelioma treatment outside of the VA system by enrolling in the homebound program.
Workers' Compensation
Mesothelioma patients and their families require financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income and other expenses. Many have health insurance or workers' compensation insurance that can help cover some of the costs. A mesothelioma attorney can assist asbestos victims to understand their options and apply for insurance.
Compensation may be available from a variety of sources, including trust fund awards as well as VA claims. A mesothelioma lawyer can assist patients identify the most effective compensation sources to ensure that they get the full amount of compensation they deserve.
A mesothelioma lawyer who is experienced is experienced in filing all types of asbestos-related claims and will handle every aspect of the legal process while the patient or family focus on treatment. A lawyer can explain the benefits of filing an estate claim to safeguard assets that will be needed for future needs.
A person may sue an asbestos company to recover mesothelioma, resulting in a trial that can result in a jury verdict or mesothelioma settlement. Most asbestos victims would rather settle for a settlement rather than going to trial.
Mesothelioma lawsuits often result in large financial awards for the victims and their families. For example, in a recent case in which a jury awarded $740 million to a patient of mesothelioma resulting from exposure to Johnson & Johnson baby powder.
Workers' compensation or VA claims can be used to obtain compensation for the families of victims in addition to the possibility of a lawsuit. Veterans who have been diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases as a result of their service in the military are more likely to make VA claims. Special monthly compensation, also known as aid and attendance pay is available to veterans who need assistance with daily tasks and also for the cost of in-home health care.