Mesothelioma & Veterans: Asbestos Exposure in the Army
Asbestos exposure poses serious health risks for Army veterans. Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, helps veterans secure compensation and justice for asbestos-related illnesses. Our firm has a proven track record of navigating the complex legal landscape involved in asbestos claims. We can make sure you know your full legal rights and take action to secure the compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation with one of our skilled New York asbestos lawyers today.
Quick Links
- Legal Rights and Compensation for Affected Army Veterans
- Why Seek Legal Counsel for Your Asbestos Claim?
- Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP: Army Veteran Asbestos Exposure Lawyers
- Historical Context of Asbestos Exposure in the Army
- Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
- How to Recognize Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos-Related Illnesses
- Preventive Measures and the Current Status of Army Asbestos Abatement Procedures
- FAQs About Asbestos Exposure in the Army
- Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, Can Help If You Were Exposed to Asbestos in the Army
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been widely used for its heat-resistant properties. First used in construction and manufacturing, its use eventually spread to the U.S. Army. From barracks to battlefield equipment, asbestos was commonly utilized throughout the military, exposing countless soldiers to life-threatening illnesses, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
The asbestos attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, help Army veterans secure compensation for illnesses they develop after being exposed to asbestos during military service. Among other things, we can guide you through the claims and appeals process at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Contact us today to speak to an experienced asbestos attorney free of charge.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Affected Army Veterans
The legal landscape surrounding asbestos exposure in the Army is complicated and often challenging for those with little experience handling asbestos-exposure claims. The details of your claim and your location will determine the exact laws relevant to your case.
For example, you may be able to sue the companies that manufactured and distributed hazardous materials to the military. In these cases, the statute of limitations in your jurisdiction governs how long you have to file a civil lawsuit.
Similarly, if you pursue a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one, the statute of limitations in certain states gives as little as one year to file. In all cases, our asbestos lawyers can make sure your claim is filed before the correct deadline.
In addition to the legal avenues available through the laws of your state, there are also unique legal avenues available only to military veterans. The VA provides benefits for veterans suffering from diseases related to asbestos exposure. However, the claims process can also be lengthy and complicated, requiring substantial evidence and documentation.
Why Seek Legal Counsel for Your Asbestos Claim?
Again, navigating the legal system can be challenging, and it is important that you understand your full legal rights and options. Many veterans find that entrusting their case to an experienced asbestos lawyer who understands military cases is the best path forward.
Securing representation from an experienced legal professional in your Army asbestos case can ultimately simplify the legal process, taking the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your health. Your lawyer will handle your case from start to finish, managing all aspects of your claim.
Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP: Army Veteran Asbestos Exposure Lawyers
You can trust Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, to handle your Army veteran asbestos exposure case. With many years of experience handling asbestos-related cases, we have the knowledge and skills needed to guide you through the complexities of the legal process. Our team is well-versed in both federal and state laws, ensuring you receive the most up-to-date and informed legal advice.
Meirowitz & Wasserberg also boast an impressive track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients, including substantial mesothelioma compensation packages. We understand the nuances of VA asbestos claims, from gathering evidence to bureaucratic pitfalls.
Our team is not only knowledgeable about the law but also client-focused and compassionate. We understand the physical and emotional toll that asbestos-related diseases can take, and we aim to alleviate some of your burden by securing the justice and compensation you deserve. Our attorneys take pride in providing excellent legal representation to our clients each and every time.
Our Army veteran asbestos lawyers will manage your case from beginning to end. Among other things, our services include:
Making sure you know your full legal rights and options.
Addressing your questions and concerns.
Determining the correct filing deadline.
Gathering all available evidence, including medical records, witness testimony, and expert opinions.
Calculating the full and fair value of your claim.
Preparing all correspondence, filings, and documentation in your case.
Representing you in hearings and appeals.
Keeping you informed throughout the life of your case.
Historical Context of Asbestos Exposure in the Army
The fire-resistant properties of asbestos have long been known. It was referenced as early as 300 B.C. by the ancient Greeks. In the late 1800s, it became a popular product in North America after large asbestos deposits were discovered. Unfortunately, it was not until the 1970s that the mineral started to lose its popularity as the serious health consequences of inhaling asbestos fibers became more and more clear.
Not understanding these risks, people used asbestos in all sorts of industries. The VA recommends getting tested for asbestos-related illnesses that could affect your lungs if you have worked in the following areas:
- Carpentry
- Construction
- Demolition
- Milling
- Mining
- Shipyards
Common military applications of asbestos over the years have included insulating barracks, lining vehicle brake pads, and increasing the fire resistance of equipment. Asbestos use in the military reached some of its highest levels in World War II and continued through conflicts like the Korean and Vietnam War. Further, many buildings damaged during the Gulf War contained asbestos, putting over 1.5 million veterans at risk.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
The health risks of asbestos exposure include both short-term and long-term symptoms and consequences. Early symptoms of asbestos exposure include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Persistent cough
- Wheezing
However, in many cases, there are no immediate symptoms. Instead, the effects of exposure only become apparent 20-30 years later. Long-term effects include:
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and heart. It has a long latency period and can take decades to manifest.
Army veterans have a heightened risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases due to the military’s use of this mineral. Whether you were exposed to asbestos while stationed at home or deployed abroad, do not hesitate to have your case reviewed by an experienced attorney.
How to Recognize Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos-Related Illnesses
Mesothelioma is a stealthy disease not only because it can remain undetectable for many years, but also because its symptoms can be mistaken for less severe conditions. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in your lower back or side of your chest
- Dry and persistent coughing
- Problems swallowing
- Feeling something stuck in your throat
- Swelling in your face and arms
- Unexplained weight loss
Again, mesothelioma can also affect the lining of your abdomen, known as the peritoneum. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
- Pain and swelling in the abdomen
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Intestinal blockages
Regardless of the type of mesothelioma they are facing, most patients also suffer from fatigue, fever, and weight loss. Regular health screenings are imperative if you are an Army veteran exposed to asbestos. Why? Because early detection of mesothelioma, colon cancer, and lung cancer are critical to improving your odds of survival.
If you’ve already been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, the asbestos lawyers at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can help. Contact us today to learn what we can do for you.
Preventive Measures and the Current Status of Army Asbestos Abatement Procedures
The U.S. Army has taken significant steps to mitigate the risks of asbestos exposure. The military largely phased out asbestos-containing materials in favor of safer alternatives, and there are also Army-specific regulations of asbestos.
Fortunately, over the past ten years, personnel exposure to asbestos has decreased due to abatement activities and the military’s decision to contract out asbestos-related work. However, some older structures and equipment may still contain this deadly mineral.
FAQs About Asbestos Exposure in the Army
If you were exposed to asbestos while serving in the U.S. Army, you likely have many questions. We answer some of the most common questions we receive below. We hope this page has been informative and are standing by to address further questions in your free initial consultation.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was popular in the U.S. military for its heat-resistant properties and insulation properties. It was later discovered that inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to life-threatening sicknesses. Its use has since been largely discontinued. However, the health consequences cannot be undone.
Army personnel may have been exposed to asbestos in innumerable ways. For example, links between sleeping quarters in army barracks and asbestos have been found in many VA claims. Other common sources include insulation, vehicular brake pads, and fire-resistant gear. Older ships, aircraft, and tanks may also contain asbestos.
If you are a veteran suffering from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you have the right to seek legal compensation. The asbestos legal team at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, can guide you through the legal process.
If you are an Army veteran experiencing symptoms related to asbestos exposure, immediately seek a thorough medical evaluation. Early diagnosis is critical to increasing your odds of survival if you are ultimately diagnosed with a serious asbestos-related illness. You should also start gathering evidence of potential asbestos exposure during your service. Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, can guide you through the legal process of securing your compensation.
Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, Can Help If You Were Exposed to Asbestos in the Army
The risks associated with asbestos exposure are extremely serious. However, the latency period for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses can span decades, and early detection and treatment are crucial to increasing your odds of survival. If you have been exposed to asbestos while serving in the military, the time to act is now. Do not wait.
The legal team at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, proudly helps Army veterans fight for their right to compensation after being diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. We are nationally recognized for our work helping folks like you secure compensation when facing this kind of diagnosis. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
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