Mesothelioma is a rare disease caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos. It develops inside the mesothelial lining of the stomach, lungs, or heart. Mesothelioma festers inside the body for decades before showing symptoms.
Asbestos is a mineral that was extensively used in manufacturing and building materials in the 1900s because of its strength and durability. After a few years, people exposed to asbestos started developing mesothelioma, which became an aggressive form of cancer with a high mortality rate.
Mesothelioma in the US
Around 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year, and 2,500 people die. Among all the states in the US, Ohio claims the 6th highest position in mesothelioma and other asbestos-related side effects. This is because Ohio has one of the largest job sectors in manufacturing and auto production, and both these industries heavily relied on asbestos-related products before the mineral was declared a health hazard.
After a staggering number of mesothelioma cases were diagnosed, the US government passed certain laws in favor of people who suffered from mesothelioma, compensating them and their families. After this law was passed, Ohio accounted for two-thirds of the total mesothelioma cases filed in the US by 2000 because of its manufacturing industry.
To control these numbers, lawmakers in Ohio set new deadlines in the Statue of Limitations, making it harder for victims to secure compensation.
How to file a mesothelioma lawsuit?
If you or your loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma, you must file a lawsuit in your state. If you are looking for mesothelioma attorneys Ohio has several experienced layers and firms that can help you.
Why reach out to a mesothelioma attorney?
The laws related to mesothelioma claims are complex and have certain limitations. Mesothelioma attorneys specialize in mesothelioma laws and limitations in a particular state. Here are five reasons you should reach out to a mesothelioma attorney to handle your case:
1. They have extensive knowledge of mesothelioma
Mesothelioma attorneys are familiar with the disease. They are familiar with its causes, diagnosis, and treatment. This saves you from going into unnecessary details regarding your condition. They can get a handle on the situation quickly and take quick action. They are also familiar with the life expectancy of patients suffering from mesothelioma. They put this knowledge to effective use by filing the mesothelioma lawsuit in due time.
2. They have experience gathering the necessary evidence
To file your claim, you need proof. Mesothelioma lawyers are experienced in such cases and know the proof you need to lay your claim in court. Since mesothelioma manifests as a major health problem several years after asbestos exposure, you might not know where you were exposed to the deadly mineral. Your attorney will need detailed information regarding your past life, including your residence and job history. They will also need your medical history to determine when you were diagnosed. With all this information, your attorney can guide you regarding the actions you can take.
For example, if you lived in Ohio and recently moved to another state where you get diagnosed with mesothelioma, your attorney will advise you to file your case in Ohio. They will need to find proof that you were exposed to and infected with asbestos while working in Ohio. They will also help you gather evidence regarding asbestos exposure to ensure you file your lawsuit within 2 years of diagnosis, as per the statute of limitations in Ohio.
3. They are familiar with the system and claims
Mesothelioma attorneys have enough experience to know how the legal system works. This means they know which evidence to provide in the court, which course of action to take, and which claim to go for.
Mesothelioma attorneys usually go for one of the following claims:
- Personal injury claims: Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma after being wrongfully exposed to mesothelioma can claim personal injury. In such cases, the firm responsible for the injury pays compensation.
- Wrongful death claims: Such claims are made by families of people who pass away after a mesothelioma diagnosis. For this purpose, the mesothelioma attorney provides evidence that the person died because of mesothelioma after being wrongfully exposed to asbestos.
- Trust fund claims: If the company responsible for asbestos exposure goes bankrupt before you file a mesothelioma lawsuit, you are entitled to receive money from a trust fund.
An experienced mesothelioma attorney will know which course of action to take. They will also tell you about the weak points in your claim so you may work together to strengthen your case.
4. They know how to value your claim
Mesothelioma patients suffer in more ways than one. Not only do they have to deal with physical pain, but they pay a substantial amount in the form of medical bills and procedures.
A mesothelioma attorney will correctly assess all the emotional and financial damage and claim compensation accordingly. This compensation can be exceptionally beneficial in cases of personal injury lawsuits.
5. They can work out the best route to your case
There are more ways than one to claim compensation for mesothelioma. A mesothelioma attorney will review your case and give you the best possible routes for your claim.
- Lawsuit: These cases go to trial. Once your attorney files a lawsuit, they must present evidence and defend your case in court. A jury and judge review your case, hears your defense, and then issue a verdict in favor or against you.
- Settlement: Settlements are claims settled outside of the court. Even then, letting your mesothelioma attorney negotiate the case with the asbestos company’s attorneys is advised. After a few back-and-forth negotiations, a certain amount is settled as compensation.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma cases are delicate. The laws regarding mesothelioma lawsuits differ from state to state. Since a lot of information and preparation is required, reaching out to a mesothelioma attorney is the best course of action. With their experience and expertise, you can successfully navigate your trial and get the compensation you deserve.
