Asbestos fibers were once thought to be a wonder material. They were resistant to heat, fire and acid and as a result were used in an array of industrial products, including materials used in construction and fireproof material. At the time, the public and industrial workers did not recognized the dangers of asbestos so asbestos products were used extensively without concern. But very early on, major manufacturers like,
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the pleura or the lining of the lung. It can take decades to develop but once diagnosed the life expectancy is less than 18 months. Symptoms of mesothelioma include:
- Dry cough/wheezing
- Pain in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Weakness of muscles
- Anemia
- Fluid in the lungs
Mesothelioma is diagnosed through x-ray, PET scan, CT, scan or MRI. Biopsies and blood tests may also be used to confirm a diagnosis.
Current Mesothelioma Cases
Although asbestos has not been used in years because of the dangers, reports indicate that between 1500 and 3000 individuals are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Although we cannot change the medical implications of the disease, we can help you receive compensation for your injuries. Don’t be misled: Mesothelioma cases are still active. In fact, due to the length of time it takes for mesothelioma to strike, many states have provided exceptions to the statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
How can I receive compensation?
A number of asbestos manufacturers have gone out of business. In some cases, however, the court ordered these companies to set aside large amounts of money for future mesothelioma claims. A personal injury attorney can help you determine if any of this money is available in your case. A lawyer can also help you pursue litigation in order to receive medical bill reimbursement, compensation for lost wages, and monetary awards for pain and suffering. In addition, you may receive workers’ compensation and veterans benefits. If you want to learn more about the types of compensation you can receive, contact a personal injury attorney today.
What types of compensation can I receive and what must I do?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, or lost a loved one to mesothelioma, contact a personal injury attorney right away. Keep detailed medical records and records of all of your expenses. You can make a claim for lost wages and medical expenses. Lost wages covers the amount of money that you would have earned if you could have been working. Medical expenses cover your mounting medical bills as you receive ongoing treatments and care.
In some cases, manufacturers were aware of the dangers of asbestos and continued to sell products made with asbestos. In these cases, manufactures knowingly put consumers at risk. If the manufacturer continued to sell products made with asbestos after knowing the risks, they may be negligent. Many cases of negligence have settled for millions of dollars.
When trust funds have been established for victims of mesothelioma, money may be awarded based on a case matrix. The case matrix factors the age of the individual, their asbestos exposure, their lifestyle choices (including smoking), and their diagnosis details. These factors are all combined and converted to an award amount. A personal injury attorney can help you determine how much money you will receive.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, do not wait! Take action quickly in order to receive a settlement for your medical expenses and to provide for your family. We cannot erase your exposure to asbestos, but we can help ensure that you will be provided for as you fight it.