How Can I Claim Compensation For Asbestos Exposure?
Anyone who is diagnosed with an asbestos-related condition or the relatives of those who died can submit a claim for compensation. Lawyers with specialization will study your asbestos exposure history and determine the companies that are responsible for your toxic exposure.
They will also assist in locating the necessary evidence to prove mesothelioma exposure. They will make the entire process as easy as possible for you.
How can I tell whether I'm suffering from an asbestos-related condition?
Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases can vary and often don't manifest for years. The symptoms can be benign (noncancerous) to deadly. All of them are caused by long-term exposures to asbestos fibers that become airborne and inhaled.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was previously used in construction because it is inexpensive, durable and non-flammable. However, it is extremely hazardous when it becomes crumbled and releases tiny harmful particles into the air. When inhaled, these particles can cause permanent lung damage through the formation of scars of the tissues of the lungs. This condition is called asbestosis and is a form of pulmonary fibrosis. It is also called interstitial lung disease or diffuse fibrosis of the lungs. People who have experienced the highest levels of exposure, over extended durations are the most susceptible to develop this complication.
Asbestosis symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and a dry cough. Some asbestosis sufferers have reported that their sputum has blood or they have trouble swallowing. They may also notice that their fingernails and toenails are becoming wide or round. Asbestos poisoning can cause nerve damage and muscle weakness in the lungs.
In some cases the GP can diagnose asbestosis after listening to lungs and asking about a patient's work history. They'll also be in a position to conduct lung function tests. If the GP suspects that asbestosis is present they can refer them to an expert pulmonologist for further investigations. This could include a CT or MRI scan to look for evidence of scarring in the lung tissue.
These tests may also show the presence of fluid around the lung, which is a different indication of asbestosis. The condition can be treated by surgery or medication. In advanced cases of asbestosis this might not be helpful.
People who have been exposed to asbestos in high doses over a long time, are more likely to develop other asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma. This cancer is often fatal. It is a cancer that develops in the linings of the chest and abdominal cavity. It is often difficult to detect, and symptoms may not manifest for 20-30 years after exposure.
What are my options?
If you've been diagnosed as having an
asbestos attorneys-related disease, such as mesothelioma, or another condition that is related to asbestos, there are several options for receiving compensation. A lawyer with experience can assist you in determining what kind of claim to submit and how to file a a successful claim. They will identify companies responsible for the asbestos exposure you have experienced and collect medical documents to prove that your health was caused by asbestos.
Trust payouts and legal suits are the two primary kinds of compensation for asbestos. Trust payouts are awarded when asbestos-related companies have gone bankrupt, and they were held accountable for the asbestos-related diseases that their workers suffered. The compensation from asbestos trusts could be quick and less costly than a lawsuit. A lawsuit can be expensive and long-winded for both plaintiffs as well as defendants. Many asbestos lawsuits are settled out of court in order to avoid a costly and time-consuming trial.
A victim or a member of their family who has suffered injury or even death from asbestos exposure may file a personal injury lawsuit. These suits are filed to recover compensation from companies who failed to warn their employees of asbestos's dangers. The procedure of bringing a lawsuit can be lengthy, risky, and costly. The financial compensation awarded is not assured.
Veterans who have been diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses and who served in the US Military might be eligible for VA disability compensation. The VA offers a variety of benefits, including monthly disability payments, as well as dependent and indemnity pensions. Veterans suffering from pleural mesothelioma as well as other asbestos-related illnesses can receive up to $3,057 per month in disability compensation.
A mesothelioma specialist can assist you get compensation from companies that exposed to asbestos or other toxic substances. They can also determine if are qualified to receive compensation from the VA or trusts. They will look over your asbestos exposure history and collect all evidence relevant like your medical records and employment records. This includes information about the specific asbestos-containing items you handled. They will then put together an argument on your behalf and ensure that you receive an appropriate amount of compensation.
How long must I wait before filing a claim?
The kind of claim you file will determine how long it takes for you to receive compensation. In most cases, it will take just a few months to obtain compensation through a trust. However, lawsuits and settlements can take longer. Engaging an experienced attorney can help speed up the process and increase your chance of success.
Asbestos claims must be governed by strict laws. There are laws which limit the time victims have to file legal lawsuits against the responsible companies. If an individual fails to meet this deadline, they lose their right to pursue the company who exposed them to asbestos, and obtain compensation for their losses.
This is why it is crucial to anyone who is concerned that they may have an asbestos-related illness to talk to an attorney immediately. Particularly if exposure to asbestos happened several years ago. Mesothelioma can take years to develop, and many people are not aware of being exposed to asbestos in the workplace. It is essential to look over your employment records and ask family and acquaintances for assistance in identifying past workplaces that might have been exposed to asbestos.
There are also programs which offer immediate financial assistance for asbestos victims. Veterans' compensation and Worker' Compensation (WC) are two of them. Veterans who are in the U.S. military are often exposed to asbestos, and may seek compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans must follow the proper procedure and submit the proper documents to be eligible for VA Benefits.
WC is accessible to those who haven't served in the military, but still suffer from a serious illness brought on by
asbestos lawyer exposure. To be eligible, patients need to prove that they have an illness that is qualifying such as Mesothelioma. Documentation of medical expenses and treatments is also required. Patients with mesothelioma can usually receive up to 80 percent of their lost income.
The lawyers at Frost Law Firm are ready to help patients and their loved ones get the compensation they deserve. They will review a patient's unique situation and determine which asbestos compensation options are the best for them. Contact us today to find out more about our services.
How much compensation should I expect?
Mesothelioma patients could be qualified for compensation. This could include money from asbestos trusts, or an
asbestos lawsuit. Many victims could also be eligible for financial assistance through medical or disability insurance. A qualified
asbestos attorney can explain these options and assist victims to apply for the right ones.