Nothing can change your life quite as quickly as cancer. When the diagnosis is mesothelioma, many questions arise.
Since this disease is tied so closely to asbestos exposure, patients wonder, could this have been prevented? Do I need a lawyer? Can I even get financial help at this point?
These are all smart questions to ask. While you may be preoccupied with questions related to your medical treatment, here are a few questions to consider from a legal standpoint.
Can I be sure that my disease is a result of asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma. Nearly every patient diagnosed with mesothelioma has been exposed to asbestos at some point or another, most often in the workplace. The exposure may have occurred 20, 30, 40, or more years before the diagnosis.
How do I know if I am eligible for compensation?
Your eligibility to file for compensation depends on many different factors, including when you were diagnosed, the nature of your exposure to asbestos, and details of your diagnosis.
Am I eligible for immediate benefits?
In the state of North Carolina, workers’ compensation covers occupational diseases including those caused by asbestos exposure. Benefits depend on your current medical condition, but weekly compensation may be available in addition to medical treatment and benefits for your spouse. Further, there are many asbestos bankruptcy trusts that can provide compensation for medical treatment and lost wages.
What if I don’t know where I was exposed to asbestos?
Many mesothelioma or other asbestos disease patients don’t know how they were exposed to asbestos. An experienced attorney can help determine the most likely types of exposure and whether compensation is available. Asbestos disease lawyers are aware of the specific manufacturing plants and exposure sites that affected many workers and routinely investigate on behalf of their clients. In addition, many people were exposed through dust a parent may have brought home on clothing, or through personal home construction projects or car repairs, such as a brake job. An experienced law firm may have access to plant records, pictures, or other coworkers that can help identify your exposure.
How can I afford an attorney on top of medical expenses?
Free consultations are available, and many asbestos attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you never have to write a check or be responsible for attorney fees. Your attorney would only get paid if you receive compensation for your condition. Being able to afford a lawyer is not a concern with this type of arrangement.
How do I choose a lawyer?
The best way to choose an attorney is to look at his or her track record and experience in the area of asbestos disease litigation. Look for direct success with asbestos trust funds, as well as experience with workers’ compensation and other sources of recovery. It is not necessary to live in the same area as your asbestos attorney. In fact, it is best to choose one based on experience and trustworthiness.
Contact Ward Black Law
The team at Ward Black Law has successfully represented nearly 1,000 individuals and families dealing with asbestos-related disease. If you have recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma, call or text us today at (336) 333-2244 or contact us by email. We will be glad to answer your questions at no charge
