According to the National Cancer Institute, millions of Americans have been exposed to asbestos at work since the early 1940s. Research suggests there is no level of asbestos exposure that is safe, and employees across dozens of industries face life-threatening health hazards as the result of their proximity to materials containing asbestos when performing their job duties.
Healthcare professionals have recognized the risk of asbestos-related illnesses in shipbuilders, construction workers, firefighters, demolition workers, and automobile mechanics, to name a few. There is also evidence that family members of those who are exposed to asbestos regularly have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has established safety standards that employers in certain industries must follow in order to reduce the risk of asbestos exposure among their workers. Unfortunately, despite these regulations, there are roughly 3,000 cases of mesothelioma diagnosed annually in the United States, according to the Conquer Cancer Foundation.
If you or someone you love is suffering as the result of asbestos exposure and you are not sure how to proceed, contact Ballard Law, PLLC. You may be eligible for compensation to cover the damages you have incurred, and a Madison personal injury attorney on our team will help you pursue a fair payout. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free case evaluation.
What Are Your Legal Options Following Asbestos Exposure?
Since asbestos exposure often happens at work, mesothelioma is typically a job-related cancer; however, that does not mean the best way to secure compensation for the associated medical bills is only by filing a claim for workers’ compensation. People who have suffered asbestos exposure at work sometimes have more options for pursuing compensation. Sometimes they can file a lawsuit against the asbestos manufacturer or against an individual or entity that caused or contributed to their asbestos exposure. It may also be possible to join a class action lawsuit if other similarly situated people have also suffered from asbestos exposure.
It is important for asbestos victims to know that, depending on the circumstances, they may still be able to recover additional compensation over and above their workers’ compensation claim. Since mesothelioma is such a serious injury, it is important for anyone suffering from mesothelioma to contact an attorney experienced in this highly specialized field of law. And they should contact an attorney as soon as possible.
If you want to learn more about your legal options following a serious personal injury, contact Ballard Law, PLLC. William E. Ballard will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Jackson or Madison, Mississippi. You can also learn more about workers’ compensation in Mississippi by visiting USAttorneys.
