Q: How does exposure to asbestos cause injuries?
A: Asbestos exposure occurs when asbestos fibers are disturbed and released into the air, and thus are absorbed into your lungs when you breathe in the fibers. Because asbestos is found readily in the construction and industrial setting, exposure to it is more common for those who work on those sites. Once asbestos has entered your lungs it can cause serious health concerns; however, those health issues may lie dormant for many years before you see signs and symptoms.
Q: What are the side effects of exposure to asbestos?
A: Exposure to asbestos has been linked to lung disease including lung cancer, mesothelioma (rare and deadly form of cancer), and asbestosis. It has also been linked to other cancers including cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, kidney, and larynx.
Q: How long does it take for symptoms of mesothelioma and asbestosis to appear?
A: In some cases, symptoms of these conditions can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos to appear.
Q: Who is most affected by exposure to asbestos?
A: Those working in the construction or industrial arena are most likely to be affected. However, asbestos can be found in more than just common construction items. Traditional occupations associated with high levels of asbestos exposure include: aircraft manufacturers and mechanics, automobile manufacturers and mechanics, boilermakers, construction and demolition, custodians, electricians, insulators, machinists, shipyard workers, plant/mill workers, pipefitters, powerhouse workers, railroad workers, refinery workers, sheet metal workers, and steamfitters.
Q: Has any legal action been taken regarding exposure to asbestos?
A: Lawsuits regarding asbestos have been going on since the late 1960s. Over 10,000 companies have been sued due to exposure of asbestos.
Q: How long do I have to file an asbestos lawsuit?
A: Mesothelioma develops many years after exposure; in fact it can take up to 50 years after exposure. Every state has maximum time limitations on when an injury claim must be filed. These time restrictions are known as statutes of limitations. It is important to act promptly after being diagnosed with mesothelioma or other lung diseases. If a claim is not filed before the statute of limitation expires, the injured persons are forever prevented from bringing a claim against the entities and persons who may be liable for their injuries.
If you have been potentially injured due to exposure of asbestos, your statute of limitations may already have expired, or may expire in the very near future. Unfortunately, there is no way for us to tell you without first reviewing the individual facts of your situation.
Q: How do I know if I have a viable case in asbestos litigation?
A: If you or someone you know has suffered from injuries related to exposure to asbestos, or has died from those injuries, you may have a claim. To find out if you are eligible to file a claim in an asbestos lawsuit, contact McDivitt Law Firm at 877-846-4878 or request a free and confidential case evaluation.