Asbestos was once extensively used in the maritime industry, placing workers at significant risk for mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer. This disease often develops over a long period and may not show symptoms until it has advanced through the body, making treatment difficult or impossible.
A diagnosis of mesothelioma can lead to overwhelming medical expenses, lost wages, and, in many cases, death. If you believe your mesothelioma diagnosis is linked to asbestos exposure during your maritime career, it’s essential to speak with an attorney who understands the complex legal and medical challenges you face.
At BOATLAW, LLP, we represent injured maritime workers, including those diagnosed with mesothelioma, throughout Oregon, Washington, California, and Alaska. Call 1-800-262-8529 to schedule a confidential consultation with our experienced maritime attorneys.
Information Center
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium, the thin tissue lining surrounding many of the body’s organs. It typically develops in the lungs, abdomen, or heart and can be either benign or malignant (cancerous). Mesothelioma is a serious disease and occurs in three main forms:
- Pleural mesothelioma: Affects the tissue surrounding the lungs.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma: Affects the lining of the abdomen.
- Pericardial mesothelioma: Affects the lining around the heart.
The majority of mesothelioma cases are linked to asbestos exposure, particularly in industries where asbestos was commonly used, like shipbuilding. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose due to its symptoms resembling other conditions, and it is frequently diagnosed too late for effective treatment.
Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos, once lauded for its resistance to heat and corrosion, was commonly used in shipbuilding to insulate boilers, incinerators, and pipes. However, it was soon discovered that exposure to asbestos was causing deadly illnesses, including mesothelioma.
California ranks first in the U.S. for asbestos exposure in shipyards and mesothelioma deaths. Some California shipyards known for asbestos exposure include:
- San Diego Naval Shipyard
- San Francisco Dry Dock
- Long Beach Naval Shipyard
- Moore Dry Dock
- Hunters Point Naval Shipyard
- General Dynamics NASSCO
Other West Coast states, such as Washington and Oregon, also have a history of asbestos exposure in their shipyards. The Bremerton Naval Shipyard in Washington and the Swan Island Shipyard in Oregon have long been linked to dangerous asbestos exposure.
How is Mesothelioma Compensated?
Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit can hold employers or other responsible entities accountable for exposing workers to asbestos. Compensation can cover a range of damages, including medical bills, lost income, and funeral costs.
Many companies that used asbestos are no longer in business today. However, if these companies filed for bankruptcy, they may have established trust funds specifically for asbestos victims. A qualified attorney can help you file a claim against these mesothelioma compensation funds.
In some cases, personal injury or wrongful death claims against companies still in operation can yield greater compensation than trust fund claims. If successful, you may receive compensation for the following:
- Past and future medical costs
- Lost earnings
- Palliative care
- Funeral expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium (loss of companionship)
- Mental anguish
Additional Resources for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma – Visit the official website of the Mayo Clinic to learn more about mesothelioma. You can learn about risk factors associated with the disease, complications and symptoms. The Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit academic medical clinic.
Asbestos Exposure in Shipyards – Follow the link provided to learn more about asbestos and shipyards. You can gain access to a list of shipyards across the country where asbestos exposure may have occurred and learn more about exposure in California, Oregon and Washington. The information can be found on Asebestos.com.
Mesothelioma Maritime Lawyer in Oregon, Washington, California and Alaska
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you deserve experienced legal representation to help you secure the compensation you need. BOATLAW, LLP has been representing injured maritime workers for over 40 years in Oregon, Washington, California, and Alaska.
Call 1-800-262-8529 today to schedule a confidential consultation with our knowledgeable mesothelioma attorneys. We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of maritime law and obtain the justice and compensation you deserve.
