Proof of asbestos exposure and liability are at the core of every mesothelioma case. Since asbestos fibers can remain latent in the body for many years, you may need to go back decades to find the source of exposure. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help identify where you were exposed to asbestos, document your history, and hold all liable defendants accountable.
As in any personal injury case, you must show that the defendant’s conduct was the cause of your medical condition. Evidence is key in every mesothelioma case because the exposure must be traced back to asbestos products, companies, employers, or even military service. A skilled lawyer can gather the necessary evidence and handle every aspect of proving your case.
What Are Common Sources of Asbestos Exposure?
Receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis is the start of every potential lawsuit, as it signals you were exposed to asbestos. There are many misconceptions about asbestos exposure, such as who is at risk and its continuing prevalence. A knowledgeable lawyer can help prove that your mesothelioma was the result of asbestos exposure.
The most common sources of asbestos exposure include:
- Asbestos-containing products and materials
- High-risk occupations
- Exposure from military service
- Secondary exposure
High-Risk Occupations for Asbestos Exposure
While any degree of asbestos exposure is dangerous, some industries with more exposure than others subsequently have a higher rate of mesothelioma. Occupations that are at high risk of asbestos exposure include but are not limited to:
- Shipyard workers
- Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters
- Boilermakers
- Insulators
- Machinists
- Carpenters
- Industrial workers
- Firefighters
- Factory workers
- Construction workers
- Power plant and chemical plant workers
- Military service members
Despite the banning of most asbestos-containing products, many manufacturers continued to use asbestos, putting workers and others at risk. It is important to remember that mesothelioma may not manifest itself until 10 to 60 years after the first asbestos exposure.
How Are Service Members Exposed to Asbestos?
Approximately 30 percent of asbestos-related claims each year come from veterans. The military valued asbestos-containing materials for its heat-resistant properties. Navy workers were particularly at risk for exposure. Shipbuilding and maintenance required large quantities of asbestos, meaning shipyard workers faced significant exposure risks.
Each branch of the military could be exposed to asbestos in different ways:
- Army: Asbestos was used in vehicles, planes, and the barracks.
- Navy: Boilers, steam pipes, and turbines used in shipbuilding contained asbestos.
- Air Force: Plane engines, brakes, and insulation contained asbestos.
- Marines: Barracks, ships, and vehicles contained asbestos.
What Is Secondary Exposure?
Secondary exposure occurs when workers bring home asbestos fibers on their hair, skin, and clothes and expose their families and others living with them. Secondary exposure is the cause of a large number of mesothelioma cases among women and children.
In the past, many Pennsylvania workers went home covered in asbestos dust because of a lack of proper industrial safety measures. These workers’ families were then exposed to asbestos. Like direct exposure, it usually takes decades for mesothelioma to develop from secondary exposure.
Evidence in the Discovery Process
Evidence of your asbestos exposure is critical to win your case. After your lawsuit is filed and before the case goes to trial, your attorney can make specific requests for evidence through the discovery process. Such evidence is essential to proving your case since asbestos exposure must be traced to employers, products, or the military.
Your mesothelioma lawyer can help gather the following evidence:
- Pathology reports that prove your mesothelioma diagnosis.
- Imaging scans showing the extent of the cancer.
- Blood tests supporting your mesothelioma diagnosis.
- Doctor’s reports connecting asbestos exposure to your diagnosis.
- Employment records and HR paperwork.
- Pay stubs showing past employment.
- Contact information of former co-workers.
How a Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyer Can Help?
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with mesothelioma, you need skilled representation. A Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer can protect your rights and best interest while proving your mesothelioma was caused by asbestos exposure.
A Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer can do the following:
- Identify who is liable for your exposure.
- Gather evidence stating which asbestos products you worked with and job sites where you were exposed.
- Interview and conduct depositions of witnesses to support your case.
- Find internal memos and documents proving that defendants knew about the dangers of asbestos exposure.
- Work with medical and industry experts for crucial testimony.
- Vigorously pursue maximum compensation for the losses you endured.
Contact Our Philadelphia Asbestos Lawyers at Shein Law After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Our Philadelphia asbestos lawyers at Shein Law are experienced in mesothelioma cases and have a track record of getting results. Call 877-743-4652 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. Located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey, we serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.