Introduction
Welcome to our article on “what asbestos companies pay into the mesothelioma fund?” If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to know where you can turn for financial assistance. Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen.
Many people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos while working in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. As a result of these exposures, many companies have been held responsible for the health consequences of their workers.
This article will provide you with an in-depth look into what asbestos companies pay into the mesothelioma fund, how it works, and what you need to know if you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma.
What Is the Mesothelioma Fund?
The Mesothelioma Fund is a special compensation program set up to help individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos. The fund was created by Congress in 2000 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act and is funded by a combination of government appropriations and contributions from asbestos companies.
The Mesothelioma Fund is managed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace and have developed mesothelioma as a result.
How Does the Mesothelioma Fund Work?
The Mesothelioma Fund operates as a trust fund that receives contributions from asbestos companies that have been found responsible for exposing workers to asbestos. When an individual files a mesothelioma claim, the fund pays out compensation based on the individual’s level of exposure to asbestos and the severity of their illness.
The Mesothelioma Fund pays out compensation based on a schedule that is established by the DOJ. The schedule takes into account the individual’s age, level of exposure to asbestos, and the severity of their illness.
What Asbestos Companies Pay into the Mesothelioma Fund?
The Mesothelioma Fund receives contributions from a wide range of asbestos companies that have been found responsible for causing mesothelioma in their workers. Some of the largest contributors to the fund include:
| Asbestos Company | Amount Contributed |
|---|---|
| Johns Manville | $2.5 Billion |
| W.R. Grace | $1.9 Billion |
| Owens Corning | $1.2 Billion |
| USG Corporation | $990 Million |
| Armstrong World Industries | $456 Million |
These companies are just a few of the many that have contributed to the Mesothelioma Fund. Asbestos companies that have declared bankruptcy may also contribute to the fund as part of a settlement agreement with mesothelioma victims.
What Is the Criteria to File a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund?
There are several criteria that an individual must meet in order to file a claim with the Mesothelioma Fund:
- The individual must have been diagnosed with mesothelioma.
- The individual must have been exposed to asbestos while working in the United States.
- The individual must have worked for a company that has gone bankrupt or is otherwise unable to pay compensation directly to the victim.
- The individual must not have received compensation from a lawsuit or settlement with an asbestos company.
- The individual must not have received compensation from workers’ compensation.
How Much Compensation Can I Receive from the Mesothelioma Fund?
The amount of compensation that an individual can receive from the Mesothelioma Fund varies depending on several factors, such as the severity of their illness and their level of exposure to asbestos. As of 2021, the maximum amount of compensation that an individual can receive from the fund is $380,000.
What Is the Process for Filing a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund?
The process for filing a claim with the Mesothelioma Fund involves several steps:
- Obtain a mesothelioma diagnosis from a qualified medical professional.
- Submit a claim form to the Mesothelioma Fund.
- Provide evidence of asbestos exposure, such as work records or sworn affidavits from coworkers.
- Provide evidence of the extent of your illness, such as medical records or a medical report from a qualified medical professional.
- Review and respond to any questions or requests for additional information from the Mesothelioma Fund.
- Receive compensation from the fund if your claim is approved.
FAQs
1. What Is the Mesothelioma Fund?
The Mesothelioma Fund is a special compensation program set up to help individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos.
2. What Companies Contribute to the Mesothelioma Fund?
Asbestos companies that have been found responsible for causing mesothelioma may contribute to the Mesothelioma Fund.
3. How Much Compensation Can I Receive from the Mesothelioma Fund?
The amount of compensation that an individual can receive from the Mesothelioma Fund varies depending on several factors, such as the severity of their illness and their level of exposure to asbestos. As of 2021, the maximum amount of compensation that an individual can receive from the fund is $380,000.
4. What Is the Criteria to File a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund?
An individual must have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, have been exposed to asbestos while working in the United States, worked for a bankrupt company, not have received compensation from a lawsuit or settlement with an asbestos company, and not have received compensation from workers’ compensation.
5. How Do I File a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund?
To file a claim with the Mesothelioma Fund, you must obtain a mesothelioma diagnosis from a qualified medical professional, submit a claim form to the fund, provide evidence of asbestos exposure and the extent of your illness, and review and respond to any questions or requests for additional information from the fund.
6. Can I Receive Compensation from Both the Mesothelioma Fund and a Lawsuit Settlement?
No, an individual cannot receive compensation from both the Mesothelioma Fund and a lawsuit settlement.
7. Does Workers’ Compensation Cover Mesothelioma?
Workers’ compensation may cover mesothelioma if the individual was exposed to asbestos while working and the illness developed as a result of that exposure.
8. What Happens If My Claim Is Denied by the Mesothelioma Fund?
If your claim is denied by the Mesothelioma Fund, you may still be able to pursue compensation through a lawsuit against the responsible asbestos company.
9. Can I File a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund If I Live Outside of the United States?
No, the Mesothelioma Fund is only available to individuals who have been exposed to asbestos while working in the United States.
10. Is There a Deadline for Filing a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund?
Yes, individuals must file a claim with the Mesothelioma Fund within three years of their mesothelioma diagnosis.
11. How Long Does It Take to Process a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund?
It can take several months to process a claim with the Mesothelioma Fund. However, the exact timeline will depend on several factors, such as the volume of claims being processed at the time and the complexity of the claim
12. Can I File a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund on Behalf of a Deceased Family Member?
Yes, family members of individuals who have died as a result of mesothelioma may be able to file a claim on behalf of their loved one.
13. Can I Hire a Lawyer to Help Me File a Claim with the Mesothelioma Fund?
Yes, you can hire a lawyer to help you file a claim with the Mesothelioma Fund. A lawyer can provide you with legal guidance and representation throughout the claim process.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has provided you with a better understanding of what asbestos companies pay into the mesothelioma fund. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to know that there is financial assistance available. The Mesothelioma Fund can provide you with compensation for the medical expenses and other costs associated with this devastating illness.
If you believe that you may be eligible to file a claim with the Mesothelioma Fund, we encourage you to speak with a qualified mesothelioma lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the claims process.
Closing or Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. The contents of this article may not be applicable to your specific situation, and you should always seek the advice of a qualified attorney if you have questions about your legal rights or options. Additionally, this article may contain inaccuracies or errors, and we make no warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Use of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the author.
