We understand the overwhelming effects of a mesothelioma diagnosis on both the patient and his or her family. The rare form of cancer, as well as asbestosis and pleural disorders, is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring toxic mineral commonly found in the shipping, mining, construction and automobile industries. After asbestos is inhaled, the toxin can be transferred to family members through contact before showering or changing clothes.
Although research dating as far back as the 1920s has shown a link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, many manufactures and companies disregarded reports and were able to get away with continuing to use it since the harmful side effects of the carcinogen take 25 to 50 years after initial exposure to show. And for those who developed mesothelioma or other serious illness from exposure to asbestos, legal recourse may be available.
There are two types of mesothelioma lawsuits:
Personal Injury Case
This lawsuit is filed by the mesothelioma victim and can be filed as Primary Asbestos Exposure or Secondary Asbestos Exposure, but must be filed within four years of diagnosis.
Wrongful Death Case
This case is filed by a family member of someone deceased due to mesothelioma. The window for filing this type of claim can vary, but is typically much shorter than a personal injury lawsuit.
Other compensations can be filed for a worker’s compensation claim, or received as veteran’s benefits (if exposure to asbestos occurred while in the military).
All mesothelioma lawsuits tend to be complex in nature and require the assistance of experienced mesothelioma attorneys.