Mesothelioma: A Deadly and Preventable Cancer
Greetings to our readers. Today, we want to discuss the latest updates on lawsuits for mesothelioma in 2018. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers. Although the use of asbestos has declined in recent years, many people are still being diagnosed with mesothelioma due to past exposure to asbestos in the workplace or their homes. Mesothelioma is a preventable disease, but it is also one that is difficult to detect and treat, and unfortunately, it has a poor prognosis.
What is the Link Between Asbestos and Mesothelioma?
When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Over time, the body’s immune system is unable to remove these fibers, causing inflammation, scarring, and eventually, the development of mesothelioma. Asbestos exposure can occur in many settings, including but not limited to:
| Occupational Exposure | Environmental Exposure | Secondary Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Workers | Natural Disasters | Family Members of Those Exposed |
| Mining Workers | Asbestos Deposits | Neighbors or Friends of Those Exposed |
| Shipyard Workers | Industrial Pollution | Co-Workers of Those Exposed |
The Burden of Mesothelioma
According to the American Cancer Society, each year in the United States, approximately 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma. While this number seems low relative to other cancers, the impact of mesothelioma on individuals and their families is enormous. Mesothelioma is a disease that can take decades to develop after exposure to asbestos, which means that many people who worked with asbestos in the 1960s and 1970s are just now being diagnosed with mesothelioma. This delay in diagnosis means that the prognosis for mesothelioma is poor, and the burden on individuals, families, and society is significant.
The Latest Developments in Lawsuits for Mesothelioma
Why Are Lawsuits for Mesothelioma Important?
Lawsuits for mesothelioma are important for several reasons. First, they provide a way for victims of asbestos exposure to seek justice and compensation for their injuries. Second, they hold companies accountable for exposing their workers and the public to asbestos. Third, they raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos and help prevent future cases of mesothelioma.
What Are the Latest Developments in Lawsuits for Mesothelioma?
Many mesothelioma lawsuits have been filed in recent years, and there have been several notable developments. For example:
1. Johnson & Johnson Ordered to Pay $4.69 Billion in Mesothelioma Case
In July 2018, a Missouri jury ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $4.69 billion to 22 women who claimed that the company’s talc-based products contained asbestos and caused their mesothelioma. The verdict was the largest talc verdict to date and sent a strong message to the company that it needed to take responsibility for the harm caused by its products.
2. Lawsuits Against Automotive Companies Over Asbestos in Brakes and Clutches
Several lawsuits have been filed against automotive companies in recent years over the use of asbestos in brakes and clutches. In 2018, General Motors settled a lawsuit for $3.9 million over allegations that it sold vehicles with faulty brakes that contained asbestos. Other companies, including Ford and Chrysler, have also faced lawsuits over asbestos-containing parts.
Many veterans who served in the U.S. Navy during the 20th century were exposed to asbestos on ships and in shipyards. As a result, many have developed mesothelioma, and lawsuits against the Navy and its contractors have been filed. In 2018, a California jury awarded $25 million to a Navy veteran who developed mesothelioma as a result of his service.
4. AstraZeneca Settles Mesothelioma Lawsuit for $37.5 Million
In 2018, AstraZeneca settled a mesothelioma lawsuit for $37.5 million. The lawsuit alleged that the company’s talc-containing products caused the plaintiff’s mesothelioma. This settlement is one of the largest in a talc-related mesothelioma case.
5. Mesothelioma Lawsuits Against Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls has faced several lawsuits in recent years over the use of asbestos in its products. In 2018, a jury in Wisconsin awarded $8 million to a man who developed mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos in Johnson Controls’ products. Other lawsuits against the company are ongoing.
6. Asbestos Bankruptcy Trusts
Many companies that used asbestos in the past have gone bankrupt as a result of mesothelioma lawsuits. As a result, many have set up bankruptcy trusts to compensate victims of asbestos exposure. In 2018, several of these trusts were sued over allegations that they were delaying or denying compensation to victims.
FAQs About Mesothelioma Lawsuits in 2018
1. How Can I File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the company or companies responsible for exposing you to asbestos. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you determine your legal options and file a claim on your behalf.
2. What Compensation Can I Receive from a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
If you win your mesothelioma lawsuit, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the specifics of your case.
3. What is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
The statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit varies by state, but it is typically between one and three years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the disease. It is important to contact a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.
4. Can Family Members File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
Yes, in some cases, family members of mesothelioma victims may be able to file a lawsuit on their behalf. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you understand your legal options.
5. What Happens After I File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
After you file a mesothelioma lawsuit, the defendant will have the opportunity to respond to your claims. The case will then proceed through the legal system, and you may have the opportunity to settle the case or go to trial.
6. How Long Does it Take to Resolve a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
The timeline for resolving a mesothelioma lawsuit depends on many factors, including the complexity of the case, the number of defendants involved, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases can be resolved in a matter of months, while others may take several years to resolve.
7. What Should I Look for in a Mesothelioma Lawyer?
When choosing a mesothelioma lawyer, it is important to look for someone with experience handling mesothelioma cases, a track record of success, and a commitment to fighting for the rights of asbestos victims. You should also look for a lawyer who is compassionate and understanding of what you and your family are going through.
8. Can I Afford to Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer?
Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the verdict or settlement, so there are no upfront costs for you.
9. What Should I Do if I’ve Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek medical treatment right away. You should also contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to learn about your legal options.
10. What is the Average Settlement for a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
The amount of compensation you can receive from a mesothelioma lawsuit varies based on the specifics of your case. According to a recent report by Mealey’s Litigation Report, the average settlement for a mesothelioma lawsuit is $1 million.
11. What is the Difference Between a Mesothelioma Lawsuit and a Class Action Lawsuit?
A mesothelioma lawsuit is typically filed by an individual or a group of individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos. In contrast, a class action lawsuit is filed by a group of people who have a common claim against a defendant, regardless of whether they have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. Mesothelioma lawsuits are often more effective than class action lawsuits in achieving justice for victims of asbestos exposure.
12. What Should I Expect During a Mesothelioma Trial?
If your mesothelioma case goes to trial, you can expect to testify about your experience with asbestos exposure and your diagnosis. Your lawyer will present evidence and call witnesses to support your case. The defendant will also have the opportunity to present evidence and call witnesses.
13. How Can I Support the Fight Against Mesothelioma?
There are many ways to support the fight against mesothelioma. You can donate to organizations that fund mesothelioma research, advocate for stronger regulations on asbestos, and encourage your elected officials to support mesothelioma victims and their families.
Conclusion: Join the Fight for Justice Against Mesothelioma
In conclusion, mesothelioma is a preventable disease that has caused immense suffering for thousands of individuals and their families. Lawsuits for mesothelioma are an important tool in seeking justice and holding companies accountable for their actions. We hope that this article has provided you with valuable information about the latest developments in lawsuits for mesothelioma in 2018. With your support, we can continue to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos and fight for the rights of mesothelioma victims.
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Closing: Our Commitment to Providing Accurate and Helpful Information
At [Your Company], we are committed to providing accurate and helpful information to our readers. This article is intended to provide general information about mesothelioma lawsuits in 2018 and is not intended as legal advice. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or believe that you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced mesothelioma lawyer.
We hope that this article has been informative and helpful, and we welcome your feedback and comments.
