Lakewood Mesothelioma is unfortunately not immune to the reach of people. Over decades, asbestos exposure has led to people in the Lakewood area being diagnosed with this rare and aggressive cancer.
Lakewood is located in Pierce County, which sees roughly 5-10 new mesothelioma cases per year on average. This may not seem like a lot compared to more populous counties, but for a tight-knit community, every diagnosis hits hard.
Many cases in the Lakewood area trace back to asbestos exposure at local installations like Joint Base Lewis-McChord, shipyards, power plants, paper mills, oil refineries, and construction sites. Veterans also comprise a portion of diagnoses.
If you or a loved one in the Lakewood community has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, know that you don’t have to go through it alone. Connecting with a Lakewood mesothelioma lawyer can help you better understand your legal options and rights regarding compensation.
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History of Asbestos Exposure in Lakewood
Lakewood, like many cities, has a history of asbestos use in construction materials that has led to health issues for some residents.
Asbestos could be found in insulation around pipes, furnaces, and boilers. It was also used in vinyl floor tiles, roof shingles, and cement products.
When these materials deteriorate or are disturbed, asbestos fibers are released into the air and can be breathed in. This may happen during renovations, repairs, or demolition.
Family members may have had secondary exposure from fibers brought home on work clothes. Environmental exposure also occurred in neighborhoods near industrial asbestos use.
If you have concerns about past asbestos exposure in Lakewood and potential health impacts, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
Legal Options for Lakewood Mesothelioma Patients
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in the Lakewood area, you may have legal options available to you.
Here are some key things to understand about your legal rights:
Consulting with a mesothelioma lawyer can help determine if you have a valid case. An attorney experienced in asbestos litigation will evaluate your history of asbestos exposure and advise you on your options.
There are often multiple companies responsible for asbestos exposure that caused your mesothelioma diagnosis.
An attorney can perform a full investigation into your work and exposure history to identify all potentially liable parties.
Your case may be eligible for compensation from asbestos trust funds or through a lawsuit against companies responsible for negligence.
It’s important to act quickly if you wish to file a lawsuit, as mesothelioma legal claims are governed by statutes of limitations.
If you qualify, hiring an attorney to litigate your claim is done on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs and legal fees come out of any settlement or award.
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How to Find a Qualified Mesothelioma Lawyer in Lakewood
There are a few important factors to consider when selecting the right lawyer for your situation.
It is crucial to find a lawyer who specializes specifically in mesothelioma and asbestos exposure cases. General practitioners may not have the specialized knowledge needed to build the strongest case. Search for attorneys who focus solely on mesothelioma.
Consider lawyers who belong to asbestos law associations. These groups provide access to the latest research and resources that pertain to asbestos cases.
Find an attorney familiar with asbestos trust funds.
Local representation can be beneficial. Lawyers familiar with asbestos exposure issues in your area may have insights that translate to a stronger case.
Understand fee structures before committing. Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, but rates vary.
The right lawyer can help mesothelioma patients in Lakewood and families pursue fair compensation. Do research to find an attorney who best meets your needs, whether local or national.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lakewood Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Should I hire a Lakewood mesothelioma lawyer?
Yes, it’s highly recommended. These cases can be complex, so having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial. They’ll handle the litigation process so you can focus on your health.
2. How much is my case worth?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as the value depends on the specifics of your exposure, medical costs, lost wages, and other factors. An attorney can evaluate your situation and provide guidance on any potential settlement or award amount.
3. How long do I have to file a claim?
Each state has statutes of limitations dictating how long you have to take legal action, often between 2-6 years from diagnosis. It’s important to consult a lawyer promptly before your window closes.
4. What compensation could I recover?
You may be able to claim compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, loss of consortium for your spouse, and potentially punitive damages if negligence can be proven.
5. Who can I sue?
Possible liable parties include asbestos manufacturers and distributors, your employers, premises owners, and asbestos remediation contractors. An attorney can help identify all responsible parties.