If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare cancer linked to asbestos exposure, you're likely facing a whirlwind of emotions and uncertainty. The long latency period of the disease means symptoms often appear decades after exposure, making it even more critical to take swift action. You can trust our Veritas team to guide you through the initial steps you should take after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Below, we will explain the importance of seeking medical attention, understanding your treatment options, and securing legal support.
What Should I Do if I’m Exposed to Asbestos and Develop Mesothelioma?
Here's what you should do if you suspect you were exposed to asbestos due to negligence and believe it led to you developing mesothelioma:
- Seek Medical Attention: Mesothelioma is a serious illness, so prioritize getting medical attention. This will enable you to explore treatment options and secure medical documentation that could be crucial to your case if you pursue legal action.
- Consult an Asbestos Attorney: Asbestos exposure lawsuits are complex. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can advise you on legal options and help you navigate the legal process. Look for an attorney who specializes in asbestos-related illnesses.
- Gather Evidence: Building a strong case relies on evidence of exposure and the responsible party's negligence. This might include employment records, military service history (if applicable), receipts for asbestos-containing products in your home or workplace, and witness statements from people who may have witnessed your exposure. Your attorney can guide you on what specific evidence is most relevant.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Time Limits: There are time limits for filing lawsuits, known as the statute of limitations, so consulting an attorney soon rather than later is crucial.
- Workers' Compensation: If your exposure occurred on the job, you might be eligible for workers' compensation benefits in addition to a lawsuit.
- Support Groups: Mesothelioma is a challenging illness. Support groups can connect you with others facing similar situations and provide emotional support and informational resources.
How Do I Prove I Was Exposed to Asbestos Due to Negligence?
Proving negligence in an asbestos exposure case requires establishing several key points. Below is a breakdown to help you understand the process:
- Duty of Care: You need to demonstrate that the responsible party (employer, building owner, et cetera) had a legal obligation to keep you safe from asbestos exposure. This is usually established through regulations or industry standards for the period in question.
- Breach of Duty: Here, you'll need to prove that the responsible party failed to fulfill their duty of care. Examples could include:
- Not removing or containing known asbestos-containing materials.
- Not providing adequate safety equipment or training for workers handling asbestos.
- Failing to warn occupants of a building about the presence of asbestos.
- Causation: You'll need to establish a link between the responsible party's negligence and your exposure. This involves evidence like work history documentation placing you in an environment where asbestos was present due to the party's actions or inaction.
- Damages: The final step is proving you suffered harm due to the exposure. This is typically established through your mesothelioma diagnosis and related medical records.
The Role of an Asbestos Lawyer
Building a strong negligence case involving asbestos exposure is difficult and often requires an experienced lawyer specializing in this area. They can help you with:
- Evidence Gathering: They can guide you in acquiring work records, witness testimonies, and other forms of proof that will assist in proving the responsible party's negligence.
- Legal Expertise: Understanding the specific laws and regulations in place during your exposure period is crucial. An experienced asbestos lawyer has the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate these complex obstacles.
- Building Your Case: They will strategically assemble your evidence to demonstrate the connection between the negligence and your illness.
- Compensation Options: They can advise you on potential compensation options available based on the specifics of your case.
It's important to remember that asbestos exposure lawsuits can be intricate. Consulting with a qualified mesothelioma lawyer is highly recommended. Hiring the right attorney can increase your chances of a successful case.
For more information about what to do if you were exposed to asbestos and developed mesothelioma in Colorado, give our personal injury lawyers at Veritas a call at (970) 292-7171 or contact us online today to schedule a free initial consultation. Se habla Español.