I’ve Been Diagnosed With Mesothelioma. Do I need to hire an attorney?

Personal Injury

Nov 17, 2016

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you probably know that over 80% of the cases of this type of cancer are caused by exposure to asbestos. If you believe your mesothelioma was caused by working with asbestos and are considering taking legal action against your employer or a manufacturer, you are not alone – asbestos manufacturers have been involved in lawsuits since the 1920s. Consult a mesothelioma attorney to determine the best course of action given your situation.

The Connection Between Asbestos and Mesothelioma

Asbestos has been used in the construction industry since the late 19^th century,  but its use increased greatly during World War II for fireproofing and insulation. Subsequently, the rate of diseases caused by asbestos has increased since the 1950s.

Mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lungs, usually doesn’t show up until at least 15 years after asbestos exposure, and more likely its after 30 to 40 years. The length of asbestos exposure seemingly needed to cause mesothelioma can be as short as one to three months.

Because it takes decades for the disease to appear, the connection between mesothelioma and asbestos wasn’t discovered until the 1970s. Even so, asbestos manufacturing continued until 2002.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits

The majority of mesothelioma cases end in settlement, however some go to trial. Compensation, whether through a settlement or verdict by a judge or jury, cover medical expenses, physical and mental distress, lost wages and bills. The defendant in these cases is usually an asbestos manufacturer or employer who neglected to implement safety measures after the link between asbestos and mesothelioma was discovered.

If you have developed mesothelioma and are in Central Arkansas, contact a Conway mesothelioma attorney to learn about your options and determine if other parties are liable for your condition.