If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you can claim compensation. The compensation can help you cater to the financial obligations associated with mesothelioma treatments and recover lost wages. Settlement for asbestos exposure-related mesothelioma also covers travel expenses, punitive damages, end-of-life costs, and other damages.
However, claiming mesothelioma compensation isn’t easy because of the long latency period and the complex legal procedures involved. Fortunately, hiring a mesothelioma lawyer can help ensure a successful settlement claim. Discussed below are five ways a mesothelioma attorney can help you.
1. Navigating the complex mesothelioma claim process
The legal processes involved in mesothelioma compensation claims can be quite complex, usually consisting of:
- Lengthy investigations to determine the source of asbestos exposure
- Several defendants
- Stringent timelines for filing the compensation claim
- Complicated legal arguments and more
Partnering with a skilled legal expert, such as this Pennsylvania mesothelioma lawyer, can help you navigate the process more successfully. An attorney specializing in mesothelioma claims can help you navigate your legal situation’s complexities by filing and fighting the lawsuit on your behalf. They can guide you on intricate medical documentation, legal deadlines, and strategies to help maximize your mesothelioma compensation claim.
2. Explaining your legal rights
Understanding your mesothelioma legal rights comes in handy when pursuing a settlement for your damages, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. It helps you determine your eligibility for compensation from property owners, organizations, or persons who didn’t protect you against asbestos exposure. An attorney specializing in mesothelioma cases can help you determine if you qualify for compensation from:
- Asbestos trust funds: Most companies that have contributed to asbestos exposure have trust funds in place to compensate victims
- Mesothelioma lawsuits: You can file a claim against the companies responsible for exposing you to asbestos
- VA benefits: If you’re a veteran who experienced asbestos exposure during your military service, you may be eligible for VA benefits
A mesothelioma legal expert will also respond to any questions you may have to ensure you understand your legal rights better.
3. Proving asbestos exposure
Proving asbestos exposure can be challenging due to the long latency period, difficulties quantifying the fibers in the air, and several potential sources of exposure. A skilled mesothelioma attorney can collect proof to show you qualify for a settlement. They will investigate your asbestos exposure by:
- Identifying the source of your exposure by investigating your work history to determine asbestos-containing products you might have been exposed to
- Researching the organization’s track record to prove negligence
- Gathering proof, which may include test results, medical records, and medical bills
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting experts in toxicology and medicine fields
Piecing all the relevant evidence together can help your attorney prove your asbestos exposure, boosting your compensation chances.
4. Valuing your claim
Valuing your mesothelioma claim correctly is key to ensuring maximum compensation. Several factors influence the value of your claim, and the right attorney will consider them all to ensure accurate valuation. These factors include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- The disease’s severity and stage
- Non-economic expenses like pain and suffering
- The degree of asbestos exposure
5. Negotiating a settlement and filing a lawsuit
If your mesothelioma case will be settled out of court, a lawyer can help you negotiate fair compensation. Should your case proceed to court, an attorney can help ensure your lawsuit is filed in line with the statute of limitations and even fight for your rights.
Endnote
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you’re entitled to compensation. Understanding how a mesothelioma lawyer can help you is key to determining if they’re worth the investment.