Who can file an asbestos-related lawsuit?
Although the EPA has made regulations to promote protection from asbestos, and organizations such as the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have manufactured respirators for asbestos exposed industrialists to use, workers are still experiencing asbestos related illnesses. Sadly, even workers exposed to asbestos as young as in their 30's have contracted asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma and have died as a result.
Individuals who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, or even who have simply been exposed to high levels of asbestos, may have a legal claim depending on the circumstances. Individuals with asbestos-related diseases be able to file a lawsuit for their injuries and suffering. In addition, those exposed to asbestos on the job may qualify for financial help under state workers compensation laws, including medical payments, and damages awarded for wrongful death lawsuits.
Workers who've been exposed to high levels of asbestos should notify their employer at once and seek medical testing. Chest xrays can help identify lung changes resulting from asbestos exposure, and asbestos fibers can be measured in urine and blood tests.
The Statute of Limitations states that anyone can bring an asbestos-related lawsuit within two years of discovering an asbestos-related illness, regardless of the last time of exposure.
Other Mesothelioma Law FAQs
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Q:
Is asbestos hazardous to your health?
A: The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and the EPA have determined that asbestos is in fact a human carcinogen, and that breathing high levels of … More -
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Has the federal government established laws or regulations to decrease asbestos exposure?
A: Yes. In 1989, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned all new uses of asbestos; however, uses established prior to 1989 are still permitted. … More -
Q:
What is mesothelioma and how do you get it?
A: The National Cancer Institute states that: "Malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the sac … More -
Q:
Who is at risk for mesothelioma or other asbestos diseases?
A: Most people with malignant mesothelioma and other asbestos diseases have worked on jobs where they breathed asbestos. Others have been exposed to asbestos in a … More -
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Are products continaing asbestos illegal?
A: Many , but not all, asbestos products have been banned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission, including: … More -
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What should I do if I've been exposed to asbestos? What if I don't feel sick?
A: If you've been exposed to asbestos it is important to tell your doctor ! Even if you don’t feel sick, the fact is that people usually don’t show … More -
Q:
Are victims of mesothelioma entitled to social security disability benefits?
A: Individuals with impairments caused by certain exposures to asbestos may qualify for disability claims under titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act. … More
