Asbestos & Mesothelioma
Asbestos is a naturally occurring strong mineral fiber that resists heat and most chemicals and does not conduct electricity. For these reasons, asbestos has been widely used in the building and construction, shipbuilding and automotive industries. However, asbestos fibers tend to break easily into a dust composed of tiny particles that can float in the air and stick to clothes. The fibers may also be easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause serious health problems, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, as well as other cancers.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that most often occurs in the thin membrane lining the lungs or abdomen. Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 cases are diagnosed each year in the United States. This rate is steadily rising. Virtually all cases of mesothelioma in the U.S. are linked to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma can appear and progress very rapidly. However, it usually does not manifest itself until several decades after the first exposure to asbestos.
Personal injury lawyers understand that you immediate goals are to get medical bills paid and covered, make sure you or your loved one does not suffer financially through any lost wages, and make sure the appropriate insurance company will pay for future treatment. Asbestos lawyers will discuss your situation and go over the options available to you, as well as work with insurance companies and other parties involved in your case to make sure all your needs are handled quickly and appropriately.