Introduction
Greetings to all our readers! Today we’re going to cover one of the most important topics in the legal and medical world: mesothelioma settlement 2018. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos, a material that was widely used in construction and other industries until the 1970s. Unfortunately, many people who were exposed to asbestos decades ago are now getting sick and seeking compensation for their suffering.
In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about mesothelioma settlement 2018, including how to file a claim, what kind of compensation you might receive, and what legal options are available to you. We’ll also take a look at some of the most important cases and settlements from the past year, and give you advice on how to find the right lawyer to help you with your mesothelioma case.
So if you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, or if you’re just interested in learning more about this important issue, read on!
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that usually affects the lining of the lungs, but can also affect other areas of the body such as the abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in construction and other industries until the 1970s. Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can easily be inhaled or ingested, where they can become lodged in the body and cause damage over time.
Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage, because its symptoms (such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue) are similar to those of other, less serious illnesses. This means that many people who were exposed to asbestos decades ago are only now being diagnosed with mesothelioma and seeking compensation for their suffering.
What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location of the cancer, but may include:
| Shortness of breath | Chest pain | Persistent cough |
| Fatigue | Wheezing | Weight loss |
| Abdominal pain or swelling | Bowel obstruction | Nausea or vomiting |
How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be difficult, because its symptoms are similar to those of other, less serious illnesses. However, doctors can use a variety of tests to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma, including:
- X-rays
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- PET scan
- Biopsy
Mesothelioma Settlements in 2018
Each year, many mesothelioma lawsuits are settled out of court, with plaintiffs receiving compensation for their suffering. Here are some of the most important mesothelioma settlements from 2018:
Case 1: $117 Million Settlement
In August 2018, a jury in New Jersey awarded $117 million to a man who developed mesothelioma after years of exposure to asbestos at work. The man had been employed as a steelworker and a construction worker, and had been exposed to asbestos on a regular basis. The jury found that the man’s employers had acted negligently by failing to provide adequate safety equipment and failing to warn him about the dangers of asbestos.
Case 2: $80 Million Settlement
In May 2018, a jury in California awarded $80 million in damages to a man who had developed mesothelioma after years of exposure to asbestos. The man had worked as a plumber and had been exposed to asbestos through the pipes and other materials he used on the job. The jury found that the companies responsible for manufacturing and distributing the asbestos-containing products were aware of the dangers of asbestos and had failed to adequately warn workers and consumers.
Case 3: $75 Million Settlement
In February 2018, a jury in Georgia awarded $75 million to the family of a man who had died of mesothelioma after years of exposure to asbestos. The man had worked at a DuPont chemical plant and had been exposed to asbestos on a daily basis. The jury found that DuPont had been aware of the dangers of asbestos but had failed to take appropriate action to protect its employees.
How to File a Mesothelioma Claim
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering. Here’s what you need to know about filing a mesothelioma claim:
Step 1: Consult with a Mesothelioma Lawyer
The first step in filing a mesothelioma claim is to consult with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. A good lawyer will be able to assess your case and provide you with expert advice on your legal options. They will also be able to represent you in court and negotiate with insurance companies and other parties on your behalf.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
To file a mesothelioma claim, you will need to provide evidence that you were exposed to asbestos and that your exposure caused your illness. This might include medical records, work history, and testimony from coworkers or family members who can attest to your exposure to asbestos.
Step 3: File a Claim with the Court
Once you have gathered all the necessary evidence, your lawyer will file a claim with the court on your behalf. This will begin the legal process of seeking compensation for your mesothelioma.
How Much Compensation Can You Receive for Mesothelioma?
The amount of compensation you can receive for mesothelioma depends on a variety of factors, including:
- The severity of your illness
- The medical expenses you have incurred
- The amount of income you have lost due to your illness
- The emotional impact of your illness on you and your family
Most mesothelioma settlements are in the range of several hundred thousand to several million dollars. However, some cases have resulted in much larger settlements, such as the $117 million settlement mentioned earlier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma claim?
A: The statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma claim varies by state, but is typically between one and three years. It’s important to consult with a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible to make sure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Q: Can I file a mesothelioma claim if I don’t know where I was exposed to asbestos?
A: Yes, it is still possible to file a mesothelioma claim even if you don’t know where you were exposed to asbestos. Your lawyer may be able to help you identify potential sources of exposure, such as past employers or products you used.
Q: How long does it take to receive compensation for a mesothelioma claim?
A: The length of time it takes to receive compensation for a mesothelioma claim can vary widely depending on the circumstances of your case. Some cases settle quickly, while others may take several years to reach a resolution.
Conclusion
As you can see, mesothelioma settlement 2018 is a complex and important topic that affects many people around the world. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to consult with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who can help you navigate the legal system and seek compensation for your suffering.
We hope that this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of mesothelioma settlement 2018, and that it has answered any questions you may have had about this issue. Remember, if you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified mesothelioma lawyer for expert advice.
Closing
Thank you for reading this article about mesothelioma settlement 2018. We hope that it has been informative and helpful to you. Please remember that the information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, and you should always consult with a qualified mesothelioma lawyer before taking any legal action. We wish you all the best in your fight against mesothelioma, and hope that justice is served.
