Clearing Up the Complexities of Asbestos Law
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, 2,500 people have died each year between 1999-2010 as a result of a losing battle with mesothelioma, a malignant cancerous tumor that forms in the lungs. This disease is a result of asbestos exposure, particularly among certain individuals who worked in construction-related occupations, steel mills, chemical plants, and power generating stations with direct contact to the material or were engaged in shipbuilding activities.
Individuals suffering from the effects of long-term asbestos exposure resulting in mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other life-threatening ailments may file asbestos lawsuits as a way to alleviate the financial pain and suffering associated with developing asbestos-related diseases. A mesothelioma law firm that specializes in asbestos litigation can provide you with the answers you need and help explain some of the complexities of the law regarding mesothelioma compensation and your rights. Here is some information to consider before approaching an asbestos law firm.
What Comprises Asbestos Law?
Regulation of asbestos in the U.S. started in the 1970s through efforts by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency. A ban on spray applied surfacing asbestos materials was issued in 1973 followed by a ban on the use of asbestos as pipe insulation in 1975. The Toxic Substances Control Act of 1989 banned the use of most products containing asbestos, but was overturned in 1991 by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
The Law and Asbestos: What Are Your Rights to Compensation?
Lawsuits that have been brought to court due to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure have been settled with awards averaging $1 million to over $5 million. These settlements are indicative of the mood of juries and the courts when it comes to assessing the financial value of pain and suffering associated with the effects of asbestos exposure. When working with an experienced asbestos law firm, you should be made aware of the current litigation being pursued and the likelihood of the successful outcome of your case.
Several states are wrestling with the issue of providing fair and equitable compensation to victims of asbestos-related injuries and disease. Workers’ Compensation and Occupational Disease Laws tend to be the first point of redress for many workers who have been exposed while on the job; however, legal interpretations may be difficult depending on the state. Your attorneys will be able to assess the mood of the courts in your jurisdiction hearing your case in order to determine the potential for success and whether your access to compensation will be within the framework of existing Worker’s Compensation laws or through civil litigation outside of these laws.
What Every Person Suffering From Mesothelioma Should Consider
If you are suffering from some condition that is associated with exposure to asbestos or live with someone who has been exposed, understand that you have a right to seek legal remedies that include compensation. Regardless of the rate of success for such legal proceedings in the state in which you reside, you should seek counsel for advice and guidance. Allowing the legal process to intercede on your behalf is a sure way to determine what you are truly entitled to and potentially receive the financial compensation you deserve for the ill effects of asbestos, mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illness.
The dangers of asbestos are well known all across the country. If you’ve been exposed to this life-threatening material in the workplace, get in touch with the mesothelioma lawyers at Goldberg Persky & White. Our tough, hardworking team of asbestos attorneys has built a reputation for being pioneers in asbestos litigation, not resting until they get results for their clients. If you have questions about mesothelioma or asbestos exposure, get the answers you need by scheduling a free case review with the attorneys at GPW Law today.
