Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that develops in the cells found in the lining of multiple internal organs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 45,000 people died from mesothelioma between 1999 and 2015. Many people who have mesothelioma end up with expenses related to their care that take a long time to pay off.
Scientists have linked mesothelioma to exposure to asbestos, a material used in many industries for decades. The discovery of this link led to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue a ban on new asbestos products in 1989, and many buildings with asbestos products have had them removed. However, many people still get exposed every year to varying amounts of asbestos, which can cause mesothelioma.
If you or a loved one developed mesothelioma, you might take legal action against a manufacturer, building owner, or construction company that negligently exposed you to asbestos. By filing a civil lawsuit, you can collect compensation that can help you with the financial costs of your recovery.
You can discuss your case with an Ohio mesothelioma lawyer to learn about your legal options. Contact the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 794-0444 for a free consultation about your case.
Understanding Your Rights
Many industries, including shipbuilders and construction, used asbestos in products because of its heat-resistant and fireproof properties. Just like when a person slips and falls in the facility, when you develop mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure resulting from the manufacture or installation of products containing this carcinogen, you can hold the company responsible for your treatment costs by filing a personal injury lawsuit.
The goal of civil lawsuits is to recover financial compensation that could prevent long-term impacts on your finances so that you can focus on getting your life back on track. Otherwise, you and your family may be stuck with crushing bills for years—or even decades.
Determining Liability
An essential part of your case is determining liability. You can only file a lawsuit against a party that negligently or deliberately caused your injuries, making them liable for the damages.
Because it can take between 20 and 60 years for mesothelioma to develop after asbestos exposure, you might find it challenging to determine what company or product exposed you. An Ohio mesothelioma lawyer can research your work and residential history to identify from a list of known asbestos-related businesses and products which you could hold liable for your injuries. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today to get started.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 794-0444
Common Mesothelioma Expenses
Mesothelioma often results in extensive medical expenses. To accurately diagnose mesothelioma, your physician must perform specific tests. Patients then see a cancer specialist to develop an appropriate care plan.
Treatment options, which include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, are also expensive. Mesothelioma patients often miss work for extended periods while undergoing treatment, making it difficult to earn a living.
Dealing with these expenses can become a massive strain on patients’ finances, ultimately driving many to file personal injury lawsuits seeking compensation to cover their sizeable medical bills.
Potential Compensation
You could receive several types of compensation in a lawsuit. These types of compensation include:
- Medical expenses: You can claim any medical expenses related to your diagnosis or recovery in a mesothelioma lawsuit, including emergency and ongoing medical care.
- Lost income: If you miss work for an extended period, you can claim the wages, bonuses, and benefits that you lost.
- Pain and suffering: The physical and mental anguish of dealing with a mesothelioma diagnosis can cause significant trauma that a mesothelioma lawyer can use one of several formulas to calculate as noneconomic damages.
This list does not exhaust all forms of compensation that you could receive if you can prove they relate to your cancer. You will want to document all your expenses, keeping a file with your medical bills, pay stubs, and other documentation to make it easier to determine how much compensation to request that covers all your current and future needs.
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Settlement vs. Trial
Most civil lawsuits end in settlement agreements rather than proceeding to trial. The party that you sued might present a settlement offer to end the case before it goes to court. For you, a settlement gives you a faster resolution to your lawsuit and provides much-needed compensation sooner.
When you receive a settlement offer, you might want to have a personal injury lawyer review the agreement before accepting it. That initial offer may not include enough compensation to cover your expenses. Your attorney can present a counteroffer that fully meets your needs.
Keep in mind that while you negotiate a settlement agreement, the clock on the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit continues to run. Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10 establishes a two-year time limit from when you receive your diagnosis. An Ohio mesothelioma lawyer can negotiate on your behalf while ensuring that time does not run out on filing a lawsuit if settlement talks break down.
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Why Hire a Lawyer
Hiring a mesothelioma attorney might be in your best interests as you consider taking legal action. A lawyer can build a lawsuit by collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. They can also negotiate settlement agreements and help you navigate the legal system. Many pitfalls exist in the legal system that could derail your case if you are not careful.
Speak to an Ohio Mesothelioma Lawyer About Your Case
Before you decide what to do about your case, consider talking to an Ohio mesothelioma lawyer to see if legal action is the right course. Many factors go into deciding to file a lawsuit and giving you the best chance to recover compensation for your cancer-related expenses. You can discuss your case with the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to make sure that you make the right decision for your situation. Contact us today at (800) 794-0444 for a free consultation.
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