Largest Asbestos Lawsuit Settlements in the US

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The largest asbestos settlements, including a staggering $797.5 million asbestos lawsuit, highlight the devastating impact of long-term exposure to this toxic material. Average asbestos lawsuit settlement awards in U.S. history have reached up to $250 million for a single victim. These massive payouts are often awarded in cases of mesothelioma, a deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Families of retired blue-collar workers and navy veterans have successfully filed claims to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain, and future financial security during terminal illness.

Top 10 Largest Asbestos Lawsuit Settlements

construction workers, and mechanics at risk of asbestos exposure

1. $250 Million – Indiana Steel Mill Worker

A former steelworker at U.S. Steel was awarded $250 million after a mesothelioma diagnosis. This case remains the largest single-plaintiff asbestos verdict in U.S. history, setting a powerful legal precedent.

2. $190 Million – New York Naval Shipyard Workers

Five men received a combined $190 million after years of asbestos exposure at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. This landmark case highlights the risk faced by Navy veterans with mesothelioma.

3. $106 Million – St. Croix Mesothelioma Lawsuit

One of the largest asbestos verdicts in a U.S. territory, the $106 million mesothelioma lawsuit in St. Croix awarded compensation to victims exposed at industrial facilities. The case demonstrated the ongoing dangers of asbestos outside the mainland U.S.

4. $100 Million – BASF Asbestos Lawsuit

The $100 million BASF asbestos lawsuit resulted in a massive payout after the company was found to have hidden evidence of asbestos contamination. It became a national example of corporate negligence and cover-up.

5. $90 Million – Florida Construction Workers

Florida construction workers secured $90 million in damages for asbestos exposure dating back to the 1970s. Manufacturers were held liable for failing to warn workers about the toxic products used on job sites.

6. $75 Million – California Power Plant Laborer

A 66-year-old man received $75 million after being exposed to asbestos in California’s utility plants. The verdict reflected the serious health risks tied to industrial insulation materials.

7. $60 Million – Auto Brake Mechanic in Texas

In a major asbestos lawsuit in Texas, the family of a brake mechanic who died from mesothelioma was awarded $60 million. He was exposed while working on vehicles with asbestos brake pads and gaskets.

8. $48 Million – Industrial Pipefitter in Illinois

An Illinois pipefitter received $48 million after decades of exposure to asbestos insulation. His case was successfully handled by top-rated national mesothelioma lawyers who proved long-term workplace exposure.

9. $40 Million – Louisiana Refinery Workers

Refinery employees in Louisiana won $40 million in damages after being exposed to asbestos in petrochemical plants. The case highlighted risks in the Gulf Coast’s energy sector.

10. $36 Million – New Jersey School Teacher

A schoolteacher developed mesothelioma after years of exposure to asbestos in public school buildings. She received a $36 million settlement, showing that even non-industrial workers face serious asbestos-related risks.

What Makes These Asbestos Settlements So Large?

The biggest asbestos verdicts involve clear evidence that manufacturers or employers knew about asbestos dangers and failed to protect workers. Many of these cases result in high punitive damages to hold companies accountable for negligence. Victims often face costly treatment, limited work ability, and shortened life expectancy.

Can I Get a Settlement for Mesothelioma Today?

Yes. Thousands of people still qualify for mesothelioma settlements. Even if your case doesn’t make headlines, you may still be entitled to compensation. Texas mesothelioma lawsuits and others nationwide continue to deliver results through legal claims and asbestos trust funds. Don’t assume you waited too long—many claims succeed decades after exposure.

“Asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma in the United States. Symptoms often appear 20–50 years after exposure.” – American Cancer Society

Who Qualifies for an Asbestos Lawsuit Settlement?

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If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you may qualify for a claim. This includes:

  • Retired Navy veterans exposed on ships or in shipyards
  • Construction, refinery, steel, or manufacturing workers
  • Auto mechanics exposed to asbestos brakes and gaskets
  • Family members who lived with someone who brought asbestos home on their clothing

Starting an Asbestos Claim

Time is critical after a mesothelioma diagnosis. An experienced attorney can help you gather work records, medical documentation, and exposure history. Legal teams can file claims against active companies or file through asbestos trust funds for bankrupt manufacturers.

At Mesothelioma Lawyer Center, we understand the life-changing impact a mesothelioma diagnosis has on families. Our mission is to connect victims, especially retired workers and Navy veterans, with top-rated mesothelioma attorneys nationwide. We help you pursue the compensation you deserve for treatment, lost wages, and peace of mind. Let us handle the legal burden so you can focus on your health and time with loved ones. We’re here to fight for you.

Stat: The average mesothelioma settlement ranges from $1 million to $1.4 million, with some trial verdicts exceeding $10 million.

Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. The information on this website is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Legal outcomes and laws can vary by jurisdiction, and only a qualified lawyer can provide guidance tailored to your situation.

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Paul Danziger

Paul Danziger

Reviewer and Editor

Paul Danziger grew up in Houston, Texas and earned a law degree from Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago. For over 25 years years he has focused on representing mesothelioma cancer victims and others hurt by asbestos exposure. Paul and his law firm have represented thousands of people diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, recovering significant compensation for injured clients. Every client is extremely important to Paul and he will take every call from clients who want to speak with him. Paul and his law firm handle mesothelioma cases throughout the United States.

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