Florida Mesothelioma Verdicts: Seeking Justice for Asbestos Victims

Introduction

Welcome to our article on Florida mesothelioma verdicts, where we dive into the legal process of seeking justice for asbestos-related illnesses. With the prevalence of asbestos in many industries and products over the past century, thousands of Americans have suffered from mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. In Florida, mesothelioma victims have found some relief through the legal system, where they have been able to hold companies accountable for their negligence and receive compensation for their damages. In this article, we’ll explore the history of mesothelioma verdicts in Florida, the criteria for filing a lawsuit, and the outcomes of some notable cases.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers many internal organs. Exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries for its fire-resistant properties, is the primary cause of mesothelioma. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the mesothelium, causing inflammation, scarring, and eventually cancer. Mesothelioma is a particularly aggressive and deadly cancer, with a median survival time of just 12-21 months after diagnosis.

Criteria for Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Florida

Criteria	Description
Diagnosis	The victim must have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease.
Exposure	The victim must have been exposed to asbestos through their work, home, or other sources.
Time Limit	The lawsuit must be filed within four years of the diagnosis or discovery of the disease.
Companies	The victim must be able to identify the companies or entities responsible for their asbestos exposure.

Notable Mesothelioma Verdicts in Florida

In recent years, there have been several high-profile mesothelioma verdicts in Florida, including:

1. Williams v. American Optical

In 2011, a Florida jury awarded $35 million in damages to the family of Richard Williams, a former construction worker who died of mesothelioma. Williams had been exposed to asbestos while working with American Optical Company’s insulation products in the 1970s and 1980s. The jury found that American Optical had failed to warn Williams about the dangers of asbestos and that their products had caused his illness.

2. Carlson v. Crane Co.

In 2013, a Florida jury awarded $8 million in damages to the family of Richard Carlson, a former Navy boiler technician who died of mesothelioma. Carlson had been exposed to asbestos while working with Crane Co.’s valves and pumps aboard Navy ships in the 1960s and 1970s. The jury found that Crane Co. had known about the dangers of asbestos but had failed to warn Carlson or take adequate safety measures.

3. Hardison v. Pneumo Abex LLC

In 2018, a Florida jury awarded $5.5 million in damages to the family of Thomas Hardison, a former Navy electrician who died of mesothelioma. Hardison had been exposed to asbestos while working with Pneumo Abex’s brake linings and clutches in the 1960s and 1970s. The jury found that Pneumo Abex had known about the dangers of asbestos but had failed to warn Hardison or provide adequate safety equipment.

FAQs

1. What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Florida?

The lawsuit must be filed within four years of the diagnosis or discovery of the disease.

2. Can family members of deceased mesothelioma victims file a lawsuit?

Yes, the family members of deceased mesothelioma victims can file a lawsuit on behalf of their loved ones.

3. What types of damages can be awarded in a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and wrongful death compensation.

4. Do I need a lawyer to file a mesothelioma lawsuit?

It is highly recommended to work with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who can guide you through the legal process.

5. Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit if I was exposed to asbestos outside of Florida?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit in the state where you were exposed to asbestos or in the state where the company responsible for your exposure is located.

6. What is the average mesothelioma settlement in Florida?

The amount of a mesothelioma settlement or verdict varies based on the individual case and the damages involved. However, Florida mesothelioma verdicts have averaged around $2 million in recent years.

7. How long does a mesothelioma lawsuit take to resolve?

Each case is unique, but mesothelioma lawsuits can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve.

Conclusion

Florida mesothelioma verdicts have helped many victims and their families find some measure of justice and compensation for the damages caused by asbestos exposure. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, we encourage you to seek legal counsel and explore your options for filing a lawsuit. While no amount of money can fully compensate for the suffering caused by this devastating disease, holding responsible parties accountable can provide a sense of closure and help prevent future cases of mesothelioma.

Take Action Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our experienced mesothelioma lawyers today to learn about your legal options.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice. Consult with a licensed mesothelioma lawyer for specific guidance on your case.