Mesothelioma Lawsuits and Settlements

Author: justins | Posted: 04.07.2012

The rare, but often lethal, disease known as mesothelioma has claimed many lives throughout the years. This dreaded disease is not readily diagnosed and treated, and may stay dormant for years. The established cause of mesothelioma is said to be exposure to products and structures containing asbestos.

According to statistics, about 14 deaths per million are recorded per year. However, this number could be much higher because not all mesothelioma deaths are properly diagnosed. In addition, other cases were misdiagnosed as lung cancer, or other cancer of no known origin.

Between 1999 and 2005, 18,068 Americans died of mesothelioma, according to www.mesotheliomaweb.org.

The Centers for Disease Control's National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health, disclosed that the industries that are most likely to be affected by mesothelioma are boat building and repairing, industrial and miscellaneous chemicals, petroleum refining and electric light and power.

It is vital that people with history of asbestos exposure to be cautious and observe themselves for the slightest symptoms. If you think you were exposed to products with asbestos, and you observe certain symptoms, consult a physician immediately. Common symptoms include breathing difficulty and heaviness in the chest area due to fluid buildup.

Being diagnosed with mesothelioma is not only depressing; it is also a financial catastrophe. Medical bills and other expenses related to treatment can be devastating. There are, however, legal options that are available for mesothelioma patients. If you are a victim, contact a mesothelioma lawyer immediately.

It is recommended that you talk to several mesothelioma lawyers before engaging one. A good mesothelioma lawyer will not only help you obtain justice for yourself or your loved ones but will also get financial help for future medical needs.

There have been large lawsuits and class actions being litigated and settled that arise from personal injury related to asbestos exposure. Aside from monetary awards, these settlements also provide for other benefits through trusts, including help in medical bills and related treatment expenses, lost wages, financial support and even funeral expenses.

In May 2012, a jury awarded $2.4 million to the family of Hannibal "Scottie" Saldibar, who died in January 2010 after being diagnosed with mesothelioma nine months before. Mr. Saldibar was a tile setter for 30 years at Tile Council of North America, Inc.

Several large companies have filed for bankruptcy protection to resolve thousands and thousands of claims and lawsuits arising from asbestos exposure. Among them are Armstrong World Industries, ASARCO, Celotex Corporation, E.J. Bartells, Federal–Mogul Corporation, Fuller Austin Insulation Co., Global Technologies (GIT), Johns–Manville Corporation, North American Refractories Co., Owens–Corning, USG Corporation and W.R. Grace.

Since some claimants affected by mesothelioma are too weak to fight their battle, or were no longer available to have their day in court, family members and organizations are fighting for them. If you knew family members, who were exposed to asbestos and exhibited mesothelioma symptoms before they died, you may file claims on their behalf. Find a mesothelioma lawyer, and help the victims find justice.

Losing loved ones is quite depressing. But, knowing that you fought to bring justice for them is self-fulfilling. Find a good mesothelioma lawyer to punish those responsible for your loss, and so that others won't suffer the same.

Article was printed from http://www.articleside.com/law-articles/mesothelioma-lawsuits-and-settlements.htm
Click here to return original format