Asbestos is a silicate mineral used in construction because of its strength, fire resistance, and sound absorption. As it is more affordable than similar materials, it was used as insulation in buildings and by manufacturers. However, although there are many benefits to construction and business, the effect on the health of those exposed to it is devastating. Asbestos exposure has been shown to cause lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
As early as the 1900s, research has been done regarding the dangers of asbestos, but that did not stop companies and cooperations in the U.S. from using it. Around 100,000 people throughout the U.S. have died or will die because of asbestos exposure in shipyards. Why is this so common? Asbestos was used to wrap:
These are parts that workers interact with frequently, creating frequent exposure.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is usually the result of asbestos exposure. It usually starts around the lungs or abdominal cavity and, due its serious nature, most people die from the illness. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, tiredness, coughing up blood, and excessive coughing. Most cases of mesothelioma can be traced back to ongoing exposure to asbestos from vocations in construction or the maritime industry.
Currently, the OSHA regulates asbestos exposure in shipyards. They have put rules in place for how construction, repairs, and demolition of structures that contain asbestos should be handled in order to protect workers. There are also emergency procedures set up in the case of an asbestos spill which include guidelines on cleanup and disposal. If an employer fails to follow these guidelines, a worker may become exposed and suffer serious health consequences. This is another case where you may be able to bring a claim against an employer.
If you or a loved one suffered because of asbestos exposure or contracted mesothelioma because of it, you should contact an offshore injury lawyer for legal assistance. Under the LHWCA, you could be protected and have grounds to file a lawsuit. This compensation could cover all necessary medical treatments as well as give you a percentage of your weekly wages while you are unable to work. If you lost a loved one from an asbestos-related disease, you and your family could receive compensation – up to 66.66% of their earnings could be awarded to you.
You do not deserve to suffer in silence due to your employer's lack of safety and inspection of shipyard materials. The first step you need to take is to talk with a compassionate maritime injury attorney about your case. Arnold & Itkin has years of experience and has recovered billions of dollars. Allow us to use our insight and understanding to help you pursue a claim! Contact our firm today to set up a free consultation.
Arnold & Itkin represented nearly a third of the crewmembers injured in the Deepwater Horizon explosion.
Because maritime law is so complex and so complicated, it is crucial that you work with an attorney who has an in-depth understanding of how it works and who has proven themselves in similar cases before.
