Asbestos exposure can lead to many debilitating medical conditions, including mesothelioma. Understanding these warning signs is crucial if you help to protect your health. However, it is also crucial to remember that exposure to asbestos typically only occurs on or around the job sites.
If your mesothelioma diagnosis and asbestos exposure were caused at work, you have the right to workers’ compensation benefits. Otherwise, you might have the opportunity to file a personal injury lawsuit against those responsible for causing your critical medical conditions. A workers’ compensation attorney at Shelly Leeke Law Firm can analyze the circumstances of your case and help you access the financial support you need when you need it most.
Facts About Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
On average, doctors diagnose over 3,000 cases of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure every year, with the majority occurring on the job. Asbestos is a term used to refer to a set of six naturally occurring fibrous materials. These materials are commonly seen in the industrial industry in items such as roofing shingles, floor tiles, cement compounds, etc.
These fibrous materials carry toxins that are very dangerous to inhale and can potentially cause severe damage to one’s lung and respiratory health. The most common complications resulting from exposure are mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Symptoms of Asbestos and Mesothelioma
One of the many reasons why mesothelioma and asbestos are so dangerous is because many symptoms often mirror symptoms of less severe, non-threatening health issues. Common symptoms of mesothelioma and asbestos include:
- Chest pain
- Painful breathing
- Persistent dry cough or wheezing
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Shortness of breath
A few advanced symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Weight loss
- Respiratory complications
Even though most of these forms of cancer take years to develop, most people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma get diagnosed in Stage III or IV, which are considered the late stages. Recognizing symptoms early on can be very beneficial to inform your doctor, get an early diagnosis, and have a much better chance at curative therapy.
How to Demand Justice After Being Diagnosed with Asbestosis or Mesothelioma
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another medical condition related to your exposure to asbestos, you may be anxious to get financial support. Your illness may prevent you from working and make it impossible for you to provide for your family. With help from our office, you can get the most out of your claim.
Our team will analyze the details of your case to determine which workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to or if you have the right to bring your case to court. In some instances, you may be able to pursue both options. When you apply for workers’ compensation benefits, the insurance company will cover your medical bills, pay for vocational rehabilitation costs, and provide you with wage replacement benefits valued at 2/3 of your average weekly salary.
However, this may not be enough to cover your damages entirely and may leave your family struggling financially. Fortunately, filing a third-party liability or personal injury lawsuit is another way to recover your damages. Whether you file a claim with the insurance company or bring your case to trial, going to court is one of the best options to recoup every loss and ensure the at-fault party is brought to justice.
Call a South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Help Today
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with lung cancer, mesothelioma, or asbestosis? You may be entitled to compensation.
Our South Carolina mesothelioma and asbestos exposure attorneys can walk you through your claim and will work hard to make sure you get the compensation you deserve for your case. To set up a free consultation appointment with Shelly Leeke Law Firm, call our office or fill out our online contact form today!
