Mesothelioma claims are sometimes also referred to as asbestos claims.
But what exactly is a mesothelioma claim?
It’s a type of legal action where mesothelioma patients and their families try to get compensation for illnesses due to asbestos exposure. Patients and families usually seek compensation from manufacturers of asbestos-containing products.
What’s the history behind mesothelioma claims?
Asbestos manufacturers knew their products were dangerous in the early 1930s, but they didn’t disclose the side effects to the public. Instead, they continued making huge profits. Fortunately, the public realized that asbestos caused deadly diseases in the early 1980s. Consequently, many victims filed legal claims against the manufacturers to get compensation.
The financial compensation you receive from a mesothelioma claim can cover your medical expenses, and other costs like:
- Lost wages due to unemployment
- Medications
- Surgeries
- Travel costs
The Types Of Mesothelioma Claims
There are three types of mesothelioma claims:
1. Personal Injury Lawsuits
If you file for a mesothelioma lawsuit, it’ll take the form of a personal injury claim. A judge will reward you monetarily for medical expenses, lost income (due to being unable to work), pain, suffering, and more.
Most mesothelioma lawsuits are settled out of court before a trial takes place.
2. Wrongful Death Claims
If a loved one dies from mesothelioma, you can file a wrongful death claim. This claim is usually filed by the estate and family members.
In the case of a wrongful death claim, the judge will compensate you for losses, including funeral costs and cancer-related expenses.
3. Trust Fund Claims
Most asbestos companies have set up a trust fund list. The company will use the trust fund to compensate asbestos patients This way, they can avoid even more lawsuits.
Not sure if a company has a trust fund list?
You can ask your mesothelioma attorney to find out if a specific company has set up an asbestos trust fund. They’ll also guide you on how to file a claim.
The Factors That Affect The Compensation Amount
Asbestos claims are usually worth millions of dollars! Claims that are settled outside of court usually amount to $1 million–1.4 million. On the other hand, in-court trials are usually worth around $2.4 million.
But the compensation amount you receive depends on several factors:
- The type of asbestos claim
- Type of disease
- Type of exposure
How To File A Mesothelioma Claim
You’ll need the following documents and records to file a mesothelioma claim:
- Work history documents showing that you or a family member was employed by the company in question
- A testimonial that proves how you were exposed to asbestos and the resulting cancer diagnosis
- Financial records that prove you and your family have suffered due to asbestos exposure
We recommend speaking to a mesothelioma lawyer before taking any steps. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can guide you on the best strategy to implement. This way, you can receive compensation for your funeral costs, medical bills, travel costs, and more.
Why You Should File A Claim
The main reason why mesothelioma victims take legal action is to receive compensation. The money you receive can help you cover medical expenses, the income you lost due to unemployment, and more.
More specifically, families who file wrongful death claims usually want to be compensated for funeral costs and get financial support for surviving spouses and their children.
Another reason why mesothelioma victims and their families file claims is to hold the company responsible for their negligent actions.
If you’re looking for mesothelioma lawyers, visit the Sokoloff & Weinstein website.
Since the legal process requires thorough investigation to obtain justice and adequate compensation, Sokoloff & Weinstein has selected Anapol Weiss as our affiliated counsel regarding mesothelioma claims.
Anapol Weiss has obtained over $500 million in total asbestos recoveries thus far and has been at the forefront of protecting the rights of asbestos disease victims around the country.