Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers
Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may feel frightened, overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Our trusted Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers are ready to explain your options and fight for your right to compensation.
The Pennsylvania mesothelioma lawyers of Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP are representing asbestos victims based in or near Philadelphia. We can help you understand your legal rights and options in an asbestos lawsuit. We offer free case evaluations for victims and their families so that you can get the answers you need without any obligation.
Quick Links
- How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
- What can I expect to receive in a mesothelioma lawsuit settlement or verdict?
- Time Limits for Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in Pennsylvania
- How long does a mesothelioma settlement usually take?
- What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?
- Who is at greatest risk of developing mesothelioma cancer?
- The Devastating Impact of Asbestos-Related Diseases
- What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
- What are the treatment options for mesothelioma cancer?
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Are you eligible to file a mesothelioma lawsuit against the asbestos company responsible for your exposure? If so, the claims process can be complex.
That’s why it’s vital to choose a qualified mesothelioma lawyer to focus on your case while you and your family focus on your health. While each case is unique, in most cases, your mesothelioma lawyer will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your asbestos exposure history to identify all possible liable parties.
- Draft and file your mesothelioma lawsuit in the appropriate court and handle all the legal paperwork.
- Gather evidence to support your claim, including medical records, eyewitness testimony and expert testimony.
- Represent you at all hearings related to your case.
- Handle all correspondence and settlement negotiations with the insurance companies and other parties involved in your case.
If necessary, we will take your case to trial.
What can I expect to receive in a mesothelioma lawsuit settlement or verdict?
The amount of compensation you may receive from an asbestos settlement will depend on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- Your exposure history
- Whether you were diagnosed with a terminal illness
- Your age and health at the time of diagnosis
- Your income and ability to work
- The impact of your injuries on your quality of life
Based on records of recent mesothelioma compensation awards, the average mesothelioma settlement ranges between $1 million and $1.4 million. The average trial verdict award is about $2.4 million.
Of course, money alone can never make up for the physical pain and suffering caused by asbestos exposure. But compensations from an asbestos settlement can help you and your family cover costs related to:
- Medical expenses
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Funeral expenses
- Pain and suffering
- And more
Time Limits for Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing mesothelioma claims are as follows.
- Personal injury claims must be filed within two years after the diagnosis date.
- Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the death from mesothelioma.
While there are some exceptions for missed deadlines, don’t wait to speak with an experienced mesothelioma attorney. The sooner you contact a Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer, the better your chances of recovering the complete compensation you deserve.
Book your free case evaluation with one of our knowledgeable and compassionate mesothelioma lawyers.
How long does a mesothelioma settlement usually take?
The amount of time it will take to settle your mesothelioma lawsuit will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the number of parties involved and whether you can reach an agreement out of court.
In most cases, settlements are reached within one to two years. However, if your case goes to trial, it could take several years to reach a verdict.
No matter how long it takes to settle your case, you can rest assured that our skilled and experienced Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers will be with you every step of the way, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a natural mineral fiber that has been used for centuries in a variety of commercial and industrial applications. Its strength, durability and resistance to heat and fire made it useful in shingles, insulation, flooring and many other building materials.
When inhaled, asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs and other tissues, causing inflammation and scarring. Although asbestos is no longer used in most products today, it still exists in many older structures—including Philadelphia public school buildings—posing a severe health hazard to teachers and students exposed to it.
Over time, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to the development of mesothelioma and other serious health problems, including:
- Lung cancer
- Throat cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Asbestosis (a chronic lung disease)
- Pleural effusion (fluid buildup around the lungs)
- Pleural thickening (scarring of the lung tissue)
If you’ve received a mesothelioma diagnosis, you may be eligible for compensation from an asbestos trust fund, lawsuit or government benefits program.
Who is at greatest risk of developing mesothelioma cancer?
People working in occupations with a high-risk of asbestos exposure have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Those most likely to have been exposed include:
- Construction workers
- Shipyard workers
- Railroad workers
- Auto mechanics
- Firefighters
- Electrical workers
- Power plant workers
- Factory workers
- Miners
- Insulation installers
Mesothelioma in Veterans
Veterans are at an increased risk for developing mesothelioma due to their exposure to asbestos during military service. Between 1940 and 1979, asbestos was widely used in Navy ship construction and insulation, flooring and other materials on board these vessels. Veterans who served in the Navy or worked as shipyard workers are at exceptionally high risk of developing mesothelioma.
If you are a veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible for benefits from Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Social Security Administration (SSA). Talk to your doctor about the risks and get regular screenings for mesothelioma and other forms of asbestos-related cancer.
You may also consider talking to a mesothelioma lawyer about your rights and options. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better. At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, we offer free legal consultations so you can learn more about your rights and options without any obligation.
The Devastating Impact of Asbestos-Related Diseases
Did you know?
According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year.
Another 12,000 to 15,000 are diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases, including lung cancer. The American Public Health Association estimates that 255,000 people worldwide die from asbestos-related diseases.
Mesothelioma cancer is aggressive, with few treatment options and no cure. If you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma, it’s essential to understand your rights and have trustworthy legal representation.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
After initial exposure to asbestos, it can take years or decades to develop mesothelioma. That makes it difficult to diagnose in its early stages. By the time symptoms do appear, the disease is often quite advanced.
The most common symptom of mesothelioma is a persistent cough. Other symptoms can include:
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the chest or abdomen
- Blood in the fluid coughed up in the lungs
- Neck or face swelling
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis is critical to getting the best possible medical treatment and outcome.
What are the treatment options for mesothelioma cancer?
There is no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options can help extend a patient’s life. The best course of treatment will depend on the disease stage, the location of tumors and your overall health. The most common treatments include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Clinical trials
- Palliative care
Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP has professional working relationships with the best mesothelioma surgeons, oncologists and specialists in Philadelphia. We will make sure you get the best possible care.
Do you have any other questions about mesothelioma or want to learn more about your options? Please call our law offices today at (267) 507-9051 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
An experienced Philadelphia mesothelioma attorney will answer your questions and help you understand your rights and options. There is no obligation, and we will never charge you a fee unless we recover compensation for you.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Incidence of Malignant Mesothelioma, 1999–2018. USCS Data Brief, no. 27. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Health and Human Services. 2022. Published March 22, 2022. Accessed May 24, 2022
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/uscs/about/data-briefs/no27-incidence-malignant-mesothelioma-1999-2018.htm
American Public Health Association. Eliminating Exposure to Asbestos. Policy Statement, no. 20193. Published November 5, 2019. Accessed May 24, 2022.
https://www.apha.org/policies-and-advocacy/public-health-policy-statements/policy-database/2020/01/10/eliminating-exposure-to-asbestos
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