Mesothelioma Claims: What You Need To Know!
Fighting for Victims Diagnosed with Mesothelioma Nationwide
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects approximately 3,200 people a year. Due to the nature of its rare occurrence, malignant mesothelioma is often referred to as an orphan disease.
Mesothelioma is often misdiagnosed due to its rarity and nonspecific symptoms. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace, please see your physician immediately to discuss your health risks.
For experienced legal counsel, call (877) 958-7920. We are award-winning mesothelioma lawyers with a proven record of success.
What is Asbestos & How is it Used?
Asbestos occurs naturally and is a mineral highly valued in many manufacturing and fabrication products because of its ability to resist heat and fire. These fine fibers are flexible and have often be woven into flame-resistant clothing that is tough to tear.
Asbestos is also highly valued for its insulation properties and can still be found in homes, commercial property, and military vessels today.
How Does Asbestos Exposure Cause Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is linked directly to asbestos exposure. Commonly used in construction prior to 1975, asbestos fibers can cause malignant mesothelioma if inhaled. These carcinogenic fibers can still be found in thousands of asbestos-containing materials used in plants, refineries, shipyards, and mills.
The rapid development of mesothelioma occurs the longer one is exposed and the volume of fibers one inhales. The latency period of mesothelioma is so great that a person may not show symptoms for 25 to 40 years. The age range of a typical person diagnosed with mesothelioma is between 50 and 70 years.
Who is at Greatest Risk for Mesothelioma?
Asbestos fibers are in products frequently used in the following occupations:
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Families of electricians, shipyard workers, and other industrial workers can also be exposed to these fibers through second-hand contact.
Types of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma comes in four forms:
- Pleural mesothelioma (chest cavity)
- Peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen)
- Pericardial (heart lining)
- Testicular mesothelioma (testicles)
Determining If You Have a Mesothelioma Claim
There are a number of situations that come into play when determining whether or not a person is capable of seeking compensation from a potentially negligent party. These are some of the factors that are considered:
- How and where the exposure to asbestos occurred
- Whether or not another party was responsible for the exposure
- When you are officially diagnosed with mesothelioma
It’s often difficult for individuals to figure all this out on their own, so it’s important to hire a legal professional who can work with you and help you determine if you have a legal right to file a claim against the negligent party.
Can a Family Member Seek Compensation?
Unfortunately, mesothelioma is a terminal condition and many of the individuals who are diagnosed end up passing away as a result. This doesn’t necessarily negate the opportunity for filing a lawsuit against the responsible party.
For families of the decedent, there may be possible legal action under a wrongful death lawsuit. You must understand the statute of limitations on these types of cases, which typically allow up to two years following the death for the family to take action.
Reach Out to Learn About Experienced Representation
Shrader & Associates L.L.P. consists of a team of carefully selected mesothelioma attorneys handpicked by our founder. You do have options if you have been diagnosed with this disease, as almost all mesothelioma cases involve asbestos exposure—meaning someone was clearly negligent and should be held responsible.
We offer free case evaluations. Call (877) 958-7920 to meet with us and discuss your situation.
