The Mayo Clinic describes mesothelioma as a type of cancer that might be treatable but likely not curable. Experts have already identified asbestos exposure as the primary risk factor for this illness. Unfortunately, many worksites and industries in Oregon utilized asbestos in their operations in the past. Despite knowing for decades about the dangers of inhaling and ingesting asbestos fibers, some companies failed to warn their workers or implement policies that promoted safety in the workplace. As a result, a growing number of Oregonians have recently developed asbestos-related diseases. Only now, negligent practices have come to light and made people aware of the deadly consequences.
It can dishearten patients to discover that their mesothelioma could have been preventable. If you received a diagnosis of the disease and experienced past exposure to asbestos, an Oregon mesothelioma lawyer can help you deal with the emotional and financial costs of living with the disease. They can also guide you through the process of obtaining compensation. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 794-0444 to receive a free case review from a team member.
Possible Sites of Your Asbestos Exposure
Before Oregon implemented laws and regulations regarding handling asbestos products, not many people were aware of the hazardous conditions that airborne asbestos fibers can create. Even with today’s rules, exposure is still a grave concern because old buildings with asbestos materials can still release fibers. If you worked in the following industries, you have a high probability of coming in contact with asbestos.
Mining
The U.S. Geological Survey identified several natural deposits of asbestos in Oregon, and you would have experienced regular exposure to harmful fibers if you worked as a miner at one. Asbestos is particularly dangerous when disturbed, and both mine workers and nearby residents could have inhaled the contaminated air while mining projects ran.
Shipbuilding
Oregon is proud of its maritime industry and the economic opportunity it offers to residents. Thanks to its desirable qualities of resistance to corrosion and high temperatures, asbestos found its way into vessels and ultimately exposed soldiers and shipbuilders to cancerous fibers. Sadly, U.S. Navy veterans are among those who now live with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related conditions.
Paper Mills
With vast forests spread throughout the state, Oregon is home to many lumber and paper mills. These industries used asbestos and asbestos-contaminated talc powder in several manufacturing processes. For a long time, companies operated continuously and put workers and nearby residents at risk of exposure.
In addition to these industries, you may have worked with asbestos while an employee at a power plant, military installation, or metalworking plant. If so, your employer might have responsibility for your cancer, especially if they did not supply safety equipment and issue warnings about the dangers of asbestos exposure. You can consult an Oregon mesothelioma lawyer to discover whether you have grounds to seek compensation.
Rules and Regulations That Could Influence Your Case
Current laws aim to manage the disposal of asbestos and minimize the risk of exposure. For the most part, federal regulations oversee the handling of asbestos, while Oregon issued additional state requirements. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has primary jurisdiction to manage state regulations and supervise federal laws.
When it comes to demolition or renovation requirements of buildings with asbestos and asbestos emission limits, Oregon abides by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. Meanwhile, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets safety regulations in the workplace.
If you face a diagnosis of an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, you deserve to know who you can hold accountable for your suffering and how you can pursue damages. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today for a free case review with a team member.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 794-0444
Preparing for the Legal Process of Filing a Claim
Obtaining compensation may seem overwhelming, but familiarizing yourself with the steps you need to take can reduce your stress. Consider working with an Oregon mesothelioma lawyer to ensure you comply with all the requirements of filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Investigating a patient’s work and medical history is essential to establish that the disease originated from asbestos exposure. You must gather your medical records, work history, and military service records, if applicable. An attorney can review this information and compare it to a list of known asbestos-related products and businesses to determine your recovery options.
If you have grounds to file a case, an attorney can determine the proper venue for filing a claim based on where you worked, lived, or rendered military service when you experienced asbestos exposure. Filing the actual suit comes next, with your mesothelioma attorney handling the discovery phase and all settlement negotiations.
It is not uncommon for mesothelioma lawsuits to conclude in settlements. However, an Oregon mesothelioma lawyer will not hesitate to proceed to trial if you cannot reach an agreement. You should not have to say yes for less than what you deserve when another party is liable for your suffering and losses.
Statute of Limitations
Oregon places a time restriction on asbestos-related lawsuits called the statute of limitations. ORS § 30.907 sets a two-year deadline starting from the date of the diagnosis. You will likely miss out on receiving compensation if you let the deadline pass. You can reach out to an Oregon mesothelioma attorney to learn more about legal time limits and see if you can file a valid claim.
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Oregon Mesothelioma Lawyers Committed to Meeting Your Legal Needs
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, you can count on the support of an Oregon mesothelioma lawyer to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. We make it a point to update our clients about essential developments in their cases, so you do not have to worry about being left in the dark during this uncertain time.
Talk to a team member today by calling (800) 794-0444 and setting up your free case evaluation. The sooner you act, the sooner we can get started.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form