Lung cancer typically occurs in people aged 65 and older and takes more lives each year than colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. While instances of lung cancer have decreased in recent years due to a drop in the smoking rate, some diagnoses result from factors over which the patient has no control.
The U.S. implemented regulations on the mining and use of asbestos decades ago, but for some, the measures came too late. If you worked with or around asbestos and received a lung cancer diagnosis or lost a loved one to lung cancer caused by exposure at work, an Evanston lung cancer lawyer can help you hold the negligent company accountable for the harm they caused you and your family. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 217-6099 to begin your case evaluation with our legal team.
Occupational Exposure to Dangerous Substances Can Lead to Lung Cancer
Experts have linked two substances with a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer: asbestos and radon. Both have dangerous effects on the human body, typically the lungs, that often do not appear until many years or even decades after exposure. The longer the exposure to these toxic materials, the greater the risk of lung cancer and other related medical conditions.
Asbestos
A group of naturally occurring minerals, asbestos forms in clusters of tiny strands. These fibers do not present a health hazard when undisturbed, but upon release into the air, people can unknowingly inhale them. They may then become trapped in the lungs, where they lead to inflammation, scarring, and potentially lung cancer over an extended period.
The widespread use of asbestos in the production of household, automotive, and building products began due to its fireproof and corrosion-proof qualities, but it slowed dramatically in the 1970s and 1980s when large groups of people who had worked with the substance began to experience the long-term health effects of exposure.
Radon
A colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas, radon has silently led to lung cancer deaths for hundreds of years. The substance occurs when radioactive elements in certain rocks and soil break down, leading to the release of radon into the air and water.
Miners and others who work underground have the highest risk of coming into contact with radon in the workplace; in fact, centuries before scientists learned of radon and its risks beginning in the 1950s, records noted the substantially high death rates of miners who at that time did not know the reason for their illness. Uranium processing plant personnel and those who work with phosphate fertilizers may also have regular exposure to radon.
If the company you or a family member worked for hid the dangers associated with asbestos or radon that led to your illness, an Evanston lung cancer lawyer can assist you in filing your claim for financial awards. Contact the legal team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm online today to get started on your case.
How Doctors Treat Lung Cancer
According to UI Health, lung cancer treatment depends on the type of lung cancer you have, its stage, and your symptoms. In some cases, doctors can perform surgery to remove tumors or affected sections of your lungs. Some patients may also benefit from chemotherapy and targeted therapies that can target the cancer in its exact location. Your doctor can help you determine your options for lung cancer treatment.
For a free legal consultation with a Lung Cancer Lawyer serving Evanston, call (800) 794-0444
An Evanston Lung Cancer Lawyer Can Help You Seek Compensation
Many victims choose to seek settlements from asbestos trust funds, which approximately 100 companies established in the 1980s as part of asbestos-related lawsuits that led to bankruptcy.
If the company you or your loved one worked for did not set up a trust fund or you want to take a different approach to pursue financial recovery, you may have the option to file a lawsuit against the liable party. Our lawyers can fight for a fair settlement out of court on your behalf, but we will take your case to a jury trial if we cannot achieve just compensation in negotiations.
Evanston Lung Cancer Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
Illinois Statutes of Limitations on Lung Cancer Cases
Regardless of the route you choose, you have a limited amount of time during which you can file your claim. Each asbestos trust fund has its own statute of limitations, and our lawyers can help you determine if you have time left to seek a trust fund settlement.
If you choose to file a lawsuit instead, Illinois law determines how much time you have to do so. 735 ILCS §5/13-202 generally allows victims up to two years from the date you discovered your condition to file a personal injury claim. Similarly, families of victims may have up to two years from the date of their loved one’s passing to file a wrongful death case under 740 ILCS §180/0.01.
If you do not file within the statute of limitations, you lose your opportunity to pursue a civil claim for compensation in your case. An attorney can help you get started on your claim immediately to avoid delays and missed deadlines.
Click to contact our Lung Cancer Lawyers today
Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm for Legal Assistance with Your Lung Cancer Claim
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, our lawyers understand the difficulties you face during this challenging time, and you should not have to deal with the complexities of the legal system, too. We can help by taking on your case, establishing the fault of the party that caused your exposure, evaluating your damages, and pursuing the compensation you and your family deserve. We offer free case evaluations, and you do not owe us anything unless we achieve financial awards for you.
Call our legal team today at (800) 217-6099 to explore your options and move forward with your case.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form