Asbestos exposure is very dangerous to a person’s health. When a person is exposed to asbestos, they can develop very serious conditions such as mesothelioma, a rare but very aggressive type of cancer. If you or someone you love has suffered harm, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the negligent party, but you also likely have many questions. Below, our American Canyon asbestos exposure lawyer outlines the answers to the questions we most commonly hear.
Why is Asbestos Exposure So Dangerous?Asbestos is a natural mineral made up of six soft, flexible fibers. It was used extensively in the auto sector, insulation, building materials, roofing shingles, shipbuilding materials, and more due to its resistance to fire and heat. Today, the dangers of asbestos are much more well-known, and so, it is not used as often.
When asbestos is swallowed or inhaled, the fibers can become trapped in the lungs and other organs and cause multiple medical issues. These include lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related diseases.
Who is Liable for Asbestos Exposure?Although its use has been limited in recent decades, asbestos is not banned in the United States. Due to this, property owners do not have an obligation to remove the substance from their premises. However, property owners are required to prevent visitors to their property from becoming exposed to it. Additionally, when asbestos must be removed or disturbed, property owners must hire licensed asbestos abatement contractors to ensure it is done in accordance with regulations.
Property owners must also warn visitors when there is a danger of asbestos exposure. For example, if there is an area that has exposed asbestos, property owners must post warnings of this. Lastly, employers must take proper safety precautions to ensure employees are not exposed.
Any time a property owner or employer fails to comply with these standards and someone else becomes hurt, the property owner can be held liable.
Who Can Sue for Asbestos Exposure?Anyone who has become injured due to negligent asbestos exposure can file a lawsuit against the liable party. People who have become sick due to exposure may also be able to file a claim with an asbestos trust fund, with the help of an asbestos exposure attorney in American Canyon.
Family members who have lost someone due to negligent asbestos exposure may also be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If successful with their claim, surviving loved ones can pursue damages for funeral and burial expenses, loss of support and guidance, and more.
What is the Statute of Limitations in Asbestos Claims?The statute of limitations on asbestos claims in California is one year from the date you knew, or should have known, you suffered harm due to exposure. This is typically one year from the date you were diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness.
Should I Contact an Asbestos Exposure Lawyer in American Canyon?You are not required to work with an American Canyon asbestos exposure attorney, but it is strongly recommended that you do. At Brod Law Firm, our experienced attorney can help you through these complex claims and help ensure you receive the full and fair settlement you are entitled to. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or fill out our online form to schedule a free review of your case.