15th September 2009
Our lawyers recently secured compensation for a man who developed the asbestos-related disease, mesothelioma, after he was exposed to asbestos by a number of former employers.
Our client was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a fatal form of lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. This devastating diagnosis came as a huge shock to both him and his family. He underwent an operation to drain a large amount of fluid from his lungs to help relieve some of the symptoms, however there is no cure for mesothelioma and as his condition progressed he became more and more dependent upon his wife and family members for care and assistance.
Because of his illness, the claimant and his wife had to purchase mobility aids and make modifications to their home. Previously a very active man, he enjoyed caravan holidays, hobbies such as fishing and bowls and helping out family members with DIY, but these activities became impossible as the pain and breathing difficulties caused by his condition now prevent him from doing anything strenuous or standing for any length of time.
The claimant held several job roles where he was exposed to asbestos, without personal protective equipment to prevent him from inhaling the deadly asbestos fibres.
He worked for various engineering companies, working on boilers and pipes in ships that were lagged with asbestos and in areas covered with asbestos dust where laggers were working or had been working.
Our lawyers are experts in industrial disease cases and we were appointed to deal with a compensation claim on his behalf. The claim was brought against the various employers involved and we recovered damages of just under £135,000 for our client.
Asbestos disease claims can be complicated due to the length of time between exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms, as it can be difficult to trace employment records, witnesses and defendant insurers. It is also important to act quickly in mesothelioma cases due to the limited life expectancy of the victims. The efficiency and expertise of a specialised lawyer is therefore invaluable, as highlighted in this case, so if you believe that you may be entitled to claim compensation you should seek legal advice without delay.
If you or a member of your family is suffering from an asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis or pleural thickening, you may be entitled to make a compensation claim.
Contact The Legal Line for expert advice on your case from our specialist personal injury lawyers on 0800 0328511, or by completing a claim enquiry form online.