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Being exposed to asbestos can cause serious health issues up to and including several aggressive types of cancer. Mesothelioma—a form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs—is one of the most common illnesses associated with long-term occupational exposure to asbestos. If you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure, it’s important to seek legal advice from a mesothelioma personal injury lawyer quickly to protect your rights and recover the compensation you’re owed. Below, we discuss the causes of mesothelioma and what victims can expect if they pursue legal action against those responsible for their asbestos exposure.
What is the main cause of mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is unique in that it has only one cause: asbestos exposure. Not everyone who is exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma, but everyone who has mesothelioma has been exposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure causes serious health issues that affect hundreds of thousands of Americans each year.
- 2,000 to 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year—the most serious form of asbestos-related cancer.
- 200,000 Americans are diagnosed with asbestosis every year—a serious lung condition caused by asbestos exposure.
- 12,000 to 15,000 Americans die each year due to an asbestos-related disease.
- OSHA estimates that about 1.3 million workers (largely those working at construction sites and with equipment maintenance trades) continue to be exposed to asbestos on the job.
What industries are impacted by asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure tends to disproportionately impact certain industries and types of jobs. Although even incidental exposure to asbestos can be dangerous, the biggest risk of asbestos-related health issues comes after years of frequent, long-term exposure to this substance. Workers most at risk for asbestos-related diseases include:
- Employees of companies that produce insulation, roofing materials, and building materials
- Auto repair shop employees and mechanics
- Construction employees
- Maritime employees
- Mine workers
- Oil refinery workers
- Power plant employees
- Shipyard employees
- Steel mill workers
One of the largest groups at risk of long-term asbestos exposure is military personnel.
What is the average settlement for mesothelioma victims?
There are many types of asbestos-related lawsuits. To bring an asbestos legal claim forward, you’ll need a lawyer who has specialized experience in representing mesothelioma victims throughout the U.S. Asbestos claims are complex, and they require expertise and resources that only the most experienced asbestos attorney possesses. The experienced team at The Ferraro Law Firm has recovered billions of dollars in judgments and settlements for our clients, and with over three decades of experience, we’re uniquely positioned to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Once you’ve decided to file an asbestos lawsuit, your claim will proceed down one of two tracks. The first is a personal injury claim filed against the company responsible for your asbestos exposure. To help you recover damages, such as medical expenses, we’ll need to be able to show that your mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illness was caused by occupational asbestos exposure and not by something else.
Another path to recover damages involves filing a claim against the asbestos trust funds. These trust funds have been created and funded by companies that have already admitted liability for asbestos exposure; by funding the asbestos trusts, these companies can avoid being named as defendants in private asbestos litigation. Our experience as asbestos lawyers includes both direct employer lawsuits and trust fund lawsuits for mesothelioma victims throughout the U.S. We’ve helped other clients, and we can help you too.
One of the largest asbestos trust funds includes funds from more than 50 companies—this fund stands at $30 billion. Those eligible to file a claim with this trust, include a diagnosis of mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, ovarian cancer, or another disease attributed to asbestos.
The average settlement in a mesothelioma case has been reported at between $1 million and $1.4 million. Meanwhile, jury verdicts have ranged from $1 million to $10 million (after subtracting attorney’s fees). However, the amount available in an individual case will largely depend on the facts and circumstances. Regardless of how much compensation may be available, it simply isn’t enough to make the asbestos victim and their loved ones whole.
You need a mesothelioma attorney by your side
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer after being exposed to asbestos, call The Ferraro Law Firm today to discuss your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for your illness, regardless of your past health habits (like smoking). Give us a call or fill out the brief contact form on our website today to schedule your free consultation with a member of our legal team.
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How do I know if I need a mesothelioma lawyer for my case?
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or suspect that you were exposed to asbestos in a work setting or through asbestos containing products, speaking with a mesothelioma lawyer can help clarify your legal rights. At Ferraro Law, we assess the details of your situation, identify companies responsible, and explain the legal process so you can determine if pursuing a mesothelioma claim aligns with your needs. This initial guidance provides a clear direction for mesothelioma victims seeking meaningful support.
02.
What can I expect from working with a mesothelioma law firm?
03.
Will I need to go to court if I’m seeking compensation for asbestos exposure?
04.
How long does asbestos litigation usually take?
05.
How can a mesothelioma law firm help me handle the financial burdens of my illness?
06.
How do I know if my asbestos exposure is connected to my mesothelioma diagnosis?
07.
Is it too late to file a mesothelioma claim if I was diagnosed years ago?
08.
What if I’m not sure which companies are responsible for my asbestos exposure?
09.
Can a mesothelioma law firm assist if my loved one passed away from asbestos-related illness?
10.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims means that we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
11.
Will hiring a mesothelioma lawyer add to my financial strain?
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When individuals and families face the challenges of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure—coping with complex treatments, escalating costs, and emotional strain—they turn to Ferraro Law for clarity, guidance, and steadfast support. Through meticulous case preparation, empathetic counsel, and strategic representation, our attorneys build compelling cases that secure meaningful settlements to cover medical expenses, provide financial relief, and offer a path toward stability during difficult times.
Working with Daniel J. Di Matteo, Attorney and Partner at The Ferraro Law Firm was and is a life-changing forever experience. He is committed to a level of professionalism and attention to detail that is at the 100th percentile. Daniel handled everything with calmness, sensitivity and support that I needed through this difficult time. He always protected me and had my best interests. I am completely satisfied with the results.
If you need an attorney that operates at the highest level, that attorney is Daniel J. Di Matteo.
Harvey W.
Ferraro Law is wonderful and I am forever grateful to them. My attorney Daniel Di Matteo fought like a tiger for me against a multibillion dollar corporation and obtained a substantial settlement for me. This settlement is life changing for me. If you need an attorney call Ferraro Law and if you’re lucky Daniel will take your case.
Florence T.
Not too long ago I picked up the phone and called the Ferraro Law Firm not quite knowing what to expect. From the moment I reached out, the team made me feel heard and taken care of — not just like another case walking through the door.
Nikki Hurtado was my first primary contact. After speaking with her I knew that I had picked the right firm. She walked me through the process in plain understandable language. Even after numerous calls, she never made me feel like I was asking too many questions, and I always felt confident that my case was in expert hands.
My litigator was Daniel Di Matteo. If there was ever anyone that you would want by your side in a court of law, it would be him. He was everything that you would want in an attorney—calm, cool, always prepared, communicative and most importantly–experienced. He knew everything that was going to happen before it occurred but was prepared for any contingency. He is a fantastic attorney.
What really set them apart was their communication. I was kept informed at every stage — no chasing down updates, no wondering what was happening with my case. Calls and emails were returned promptly, and they proactively reached out whenever there was a development.
The professionalism of the entire team — from the attorneys to the support staff — was exceptional. Everyone I interacted with was kind, compassionate, and genuinely invested in my well-being, not just the outcome of my case.
And the outcome? Better than I could have hoped for. They fought hard on my behalf and secured a result that truly reflected the impact this injury had on my life.
You could ask for no better firm or attorney.
Keeth K.
Working with my attorney, Daniel J. Di Matteo was an exceptional experience from start to finish. His level of professionalism, attention to detail, and strategic thinking set him apart immediately. Every step of the process was handled with precision and clarity, and I always felt informed and confident in the decisions being made.
What truly stood out was his ability to navigate complex situations with confidence and deliver results that exceeded my expectations. He was not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely committed to protecting my best interests.
If you’re looking for an attorney who is sharp, responsive, and truly operates at a high level, I highly recommend him without any hesitation.
Ivan M.
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