There are multiple hazards in any given workplace, but most workers assume that when they spend years in an industry or place of employment, they will not be at risk of developing a cancer or disease later on as a direct result of the nature of the work they performed. Tragically, there are approximately 3,000 people diagnosed with mesothelioma each year, a condition that is most often caused by workplace asbestos exposure. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or have recently lost a loved one to this terrible disease, consider working with one of our Austin mesothelioma lawyers for assistance with your personal injury claim.
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Austin Attorneys Aggressively Pursuing Mesothelioma Claims
What Is Mesothelioma?
As explained by the Mayo Clinic, mesothelioma is a type of cancer that forms in the body’s mesothelium, the thin layers of tissue that cover the majority of organs in your body. This type of cancer is aggressive, and in many cases, fatal. One of the most tragic elements of mesothelioma is that the initial symptoms can mimic many other conditions, such as a cold or respiratory infection, and may therefore go undiagnosed until it’s too late.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
The primary risk factor for the development of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Asbestos, while a naturally occurring set of minerals, is associated with numerous health complications, including the development of mesothelioma. Prior to 1989, asbestos fibers were used heavily in the U.S., in everything from automobile brakes, to insulation, and more. As such, construction and other workers who spent years handling asbestos-containing materials and inhaling asbestos-containing fibers have a significantly increased risk of developing mesothelioma.
What Are My Rights if I’m Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
Even if mesothelioma does not lead to death — tragically, the five-year survival rate for stage IA mesothelioma cancer, the most benign stage, is only 16 percent — the disease can be terrible. Side effects may include difficulty breathing and swallowing, chest pain, fluid in the chest, and more, and treatment may include radiation or chemotherapy as well as other invasive options. A person who lives through this terrible cancer, or the surviving family members of a person who dies as a result of mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure, deserves to be compensated.
If you were exposed to mesothelioma, you may be able to file a lawsuit for compensation against the liable party. This might include the manufacturer of the asbestos-containing product, the property owner where the asbestos-exposure took place, or even a former employer in some cases. In fact, many companies have asbestos victims trust funds in place that are designed specifically to compensate those who have developed asbestos-related conditions like asbestosis or mesothelioma.
When you call our law firm, we can assess your case to determine whether you may have a valid cause of action, and if so, what evidence is necessary to ensure you recover the compensation that you’re owed. For a free consultation with the Austin mesothelioma lawyers at DC Law, please call us today.
