Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer typically caused by asbestos exposure. Individuals who worked in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive, or manufacturing are at a high risk of developing this disease. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to workplace exposure to asbestos or other negligent asbestos-containing products, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced attorneys specialize in asbestos-related lawsuits and can help you pursue claims for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mesothelioma and what causes it?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the thin lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and other industries for decades. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in tissue and cause cell damage over time. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after initial exposure, which is why many people are diagnosed long after their exposure occurred.
How much compensation can I receive in a mesothelioma lawsuit?
Mesothelioma compensation varies based on factors like the severity of the diagnosis, the extent of asbestos exposure, medical expenses, lost income, and the liable companies involved. Settlements in mesothelioma cases typically range from several hundred thousand dollars to several million dollars. In addition to lawsuits, many victims can file claims with asbestos trust funds set up by bankrupt asbestos companies. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help determine all available sources of compensation.
Who can file a mesothelioma lawsuit?
Anyone diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure can file a lawsuit. This includes workers who were directly exposed to asbestos on the job, as well as family members who developed mesothelioma through secondhand exposure from contaminated clothing or materials brought home. If the diagnosed person has passed away, their surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit. Veterans who were exposed to asbestos during military service also have the right to pursue legal claims.
How long do I have to file a mesothelioma claim?
The statute of limitations for mesothelioma claims varies by state, typically ranging from one to five years. The clock usually starts from the date of diagnosis rather than the date of asbestos exposure, because the disease has such a long latency period. In Alabama, personal injury claims generally must be filed within two years. Because mesothelioma cases require extensive evidence gathering, including employment records and exposure history, contacting an attorney promptly is important.
What are asbestos trust funds and can I file a claim?
Asbestos trust funds were created by companies that went bankrupt due to asbestos-related lawsuits. These trusts hold billions of dollars specifically to compensate victims of asbestos exposure. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and can document exposure to products made by these companies, you may be eligible to file a trust fund claim. Filing a trust fund claim does not prevent you from also pursuing a lawsuit against other companies. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can identify all applicable trusts and help you file claims efficiently.
