Occupations at High Risk of Asbestos Exposure

According to The Mesothelioma Center, certain occupations have historically put workers at a higher risk of asbestos exposure, including:

  • Construction
    workers
  • Power Plant
    workers
  • Firefighters
  • Shipyard
    employees
  • Military
    personnel
  • Mechanics
  • Demolition
    crews
  • Paper
    mill workers
  • Manufacturing
    plant employees

Asbestos was widely used in construction materials, insulation and fire-resistance products due to its heat-resistant properties. People working in these industries prior to the 1970s faced significant risks of inhaling asbestos fibers on the job.

Mesothelioma Statistics

US workers exposed

More than 1 million workers in the US were exposed to asbestos at some point during the 20th century.

54,905 killed in the US

According to the CDC, mesothelioma killed 54,905 people in the US between 1999 and 2020.

1,803 Wisconsinite deaths

Between 1999 and 2015, an estimated 1,803 Wisconsinites die of mesothelioma.

11.4 per 1 Million Death rate

Wisconsin’s mesothelioma death rate is significantly higher than the national average, at 11.4 per 1 million people.

2,681 New cases in 2020

Doctors estimate there were 2,681 newly diagnosed mesothelioma cases in 2020.

Trending Down Each year since 2014

According to the National Cancer Institute, new mesothelioma cases have been trending downward each year since 2014.

Mesothelioma Deaths by Industry

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the US industries with the highest proportion of mesothelioma deaths from 1999 to 2020 were:

15.7%
Healthcare & Social Assistance 15.7% of deaths
8.8%
Manufacturing 8.8% of deaths
6.5%
Retail Trade 6.5% of deaths
4.8%
Public Administration 4.8% of deaths
4.2%
Finance & Insurance 4.2% of deaths

Other Health Conditions Caused by Asbestos Exposure

  • Lung Cancer Exposure to asbestos fibers significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, causing inflammation and mutations in lung cells and forming malignant tumors.
  • Asbestosis Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers over an extended period. As the fibers accumulate in the lung tissues, they trigger scarring and inflammation, making it increasingly difficult for the lungs to function properly. Asbestosis can lead to shortness of breath, coughing and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.
  • Ovary and Larynx Cancer Studies have linked asbestos exposure to an increased risk of ovarian cancer in women and laryngeal (voice box) cancer. It’s believed asbestos fibers can travel through the body causing DNA damage in these areas and developing cancerous cells..
  • Pleural Thickening The pleura are the protective membranes lining the lungs and chest cavity. Asbestos exposure can cause the membranes to stiffen and make it difficult for the lungs to expand properly. Pleural thickening can cause chest pain, shortness of breath and reduced lung capacity.

I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, who is liable?

Mesothelioma lawsuits are typically not filed against the affected party’s employer. A mesothelioma or asbestos exposure case is usually filed against the manufacturer of the product that caused the asbestos exposure.

Establishing liability for mesothelioma cases can be challenging due to the long latency period between the initial asbestos exposure and the development of the disease. However, there are several legal strategies you can use to prove liability in mesothelioma cases.

  1. Negligence To prove negligence, you must demonstrate the defendant owed you a legal duty of care, breached that duty and the breach directly caused your injury.
  2. Strict Liability Under strict liability, you do not need to prove the defendant’s negligence. Instead, you must show the asbestos product was inherently dangerous and the defendant was a commercial supplier of the product.
  3. Breach of Warranty Companies can be held liable for breaching either an implied warranty of safety (the product was not safe for its intended purpose) or an express warranty (the company made false claims about the product’s safety).

Proving causation and exposure to specific asbestos products is crucial in mesothelioma cases. An experienced mesothelioma law firm can help gather evidence, identify responsible parties and build a strong case to pursue compensation from liable parties.

How to File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit

  1. Contact Warshafsky Law The first step in filing your Milwaukee mesothelioma lawsuit is to contact Warshafsky Law for a free consultation. During the initial meeting, our experienced team will listen to your story and carefully examine your circumstances. Our goal is to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
  2. Gather Evidence Compiling evidence is crucial in building a strong mesothelioma case. You will need to gather:
    Medical Records These should include a confirmed mesothelioma diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional. Detailed medical records documenting your diagnosis and treatment history are essential.
    Employment Records Documentation proving your work history, especially at job sites known for asbestos exposure, is vital. This may include pay stubs, employment contracts and job site records.
    Asbestos Exposure Evidence Any statements or records identifying the source of asbestos exposure are important, including witness testimonies, company records, safety reports and other documents linking your mesothelioma to asbestos exposure at your workplace.
  3. Explore Your Eligibility Options After gathering the necessary evidence, one of our expert Wisconsin mesothelioma lawyers will help you explore your eligibility for compensation options. Options might include:
    Class Action Lawsuits You may be eligible to join a class action lawsuit if multiple individuals have been similarly affected by asbestos exposure from the same source.
    Workers’ Compensation Claims If your asbestos exposure occurred at your workplace, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Our lawyers will help you understand the process and assist in filing the necessary claims.
    Asbestos/Mesothelioma Trust Funds Many companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established trust funds to compensate victims. Our team will help you identify and file claims with these trust funds to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available.
  4. File Your Suit Once all the necessary preparations are complete, Warshafsky Law will file your lawsuit. Our experienced legal team will handle all aspects of the legal process, from filing the initial complaint to representing you in court. We are committed to fighting tirelessly for the compensation you deserve, whether through settlement negotiations or trial proceedings.
    Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit requires thorough preparation, expert legal knowledge and a compassionate approach. Warshafsky Law is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring you have the best possible chance of securing the justice and compensation you need.

Mesothelioma Trust Funds

Many asbestos manufacturers have established bankruptcy trust funds to provide compensation to individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. The trust funds serve as a resource for mesothelioma victims, offering financial support to cover a range of expenses, including:

  • Lost wages
  • Travel costs for treatment
  • Medical bills
  • Pain and suffering
  • Funeral expenses

Warshafsky Law is dedicated to ensuring our clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve. Unlike some personal injury firms, we don’t prioritize high case volume and quick settlements. Our approach is entirely focused on fighting for the best possible outcome for you and your family.

No Win, No Fee Mesothelioma Lawyers

Warshafky’s Milwaukee mesothelioma attorneys have an unparalleled commitment to thoroughly preparing each case from the very beginning. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any upfront costs or fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you. Our team is here to guide you through the process, providing compassionate support and relentless advocacy every step of the way. Contact Warshafsky today for a free case assessment.

No win. No fee. Free Case Assessment.

Milwaukee Personal Injury Lawsuits Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a mesothelioma lawyer?

Yes, millions of dollars may be at stake in a mesothelioma case. Companies will aggressively try to prove your claims false. Hire an experienced trial attorney to ensure you get the compensation you or your loved one deserve.

Who do I sue for mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma lawsuits are most often filed against the companies that produced the asbestos materials that caused your illness.

Can veterans with mesothelioma sue the military?

While you may have contracted mesothelioma when serving in the military, mesothelioma lawsuits are usually filed against the companies that produced the materials causing your illness. You may also be eligible for benefits through the Department of Veteran Affairs.

What is an asbestos or mesothelioma trust fund?

After victims began filing lawsuits against asbestos-industry companies, they sought bankruptcy protection to ensure their company's survival. In exchange, the government required those companies to establish trust funds to compensate current and future victims of asbestos exposure.

Does mesothelioma make me or my loved one eligible for disability or workers compensation benefits?

Mesothelioma victims can apply for expedited Social Security disability benefits. You may also be eligible for workers compensation benefits, but this varies by state. Our team of experienced lawyers will help you with your claims to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Wisconsin mesothelioma/asbestos settlement amounts

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