Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos—often on job sites like construction, shipyards, or industrial plants. If you or a loved one were diagnosed with asbestosis due to workplace asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to compensation. We connect individuals with experienced attorneys who specialize in asbestos-related claims and can help you access medical and financial support through lawsuits or asbestos trust funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is asbestosis, and how do people get it?
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, often in workplaces like shipyards, construction sites, factories, or old buildings with asbestos insulation. Prolonged exposure causes scarring in the lungs, making it harder to breathe over time. Symptoms may take 10 to 40 years to appear after initial exposure.
Can I sue if I was exposed to asbestos at work?
Yes. If your employer, building owner, or product manufacturer failed to warn you about asbestos risks or provide adequate protection, you may have grounds for a lawsuit or a claim against an asbestos trust fund. Many companies that used or manufactured asbestos products have set up trust funds worth billions to compensate victims.
What compensation is available in asbestosis cases?
Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, disability, pain and suffering, and future care costs. Families may also be entitled to compensation through wrongful death claims if a loved one passed away from asbestos-related illness.
How is asbestosis different from mesothelioma or lung cancer?
Asbestosis is a non-cancerous lung disease caused by asbestos fiber buildup and scarring. While it can be serious, it is distinct from mesothelioma (a rare and aggressive cancer caused almost exclusively by asbestos exposure) and asbestos-related lung cancer. Each condition has its own legal and medical considerations.
Is there a time limit to file an asbestosis claim?
Yes, each state has a statute of limitations–often ranging from 1 to 3 years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the disease. Because symptoms of asbestosis can take decades to appear, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after a diagnosis to protect your legal rights.
