Published On noviembre 25, 2025

Navy Veterans: How to File a Mesothelioma Claim

Página revisada y editada por

Abogado de mesotelioma Paul Danziger

If you are a Navy veteran who was exposed to asbestos during your service, you may be wondering how to file a mesothelioma claim. This guide will help you understand the process, your legal rights, and how to pursue compensation for a navy mesothelioma claim.

Understanding Navy Mesothelioma Claims

The U.S. Navy relied heavily on asbestos in decades past, from the 1930s through the early 1980s; using it in insulation, pipes, boiler rooms, engine rooms, and even living quarters. Because of the extensive use on ships, submarines, and shipyards, many veterans were exposed to asbestos fibers unknowingly, putting them at risk of mesothelioma later in life.

Why Navy Veterans Face a High Risk

Among all branches of the U.S. military, the Navy used the most asbestos. The confined spaces aboard ships, poor ventilation, and constant maintenance made asbestos exposure a daily reality. In fact, over 300 asbestos-containing products were installed on Navy vessels, and this exposure has had long-term health consequences.

How Common Are Mesothelioma Cases in Veterans?

Veterans make up a significant portion of mesothelioma diagnoses. Studies and reports estimate that nearly 30 percent of all mesothelioma cases are among veterans. This disproportionate representation is largely due to asbestos exposure during military service, particularly in the Navy.

The Steps to File a Veterans Mesothelioma Claim

1. Document Your Asbestos Exposure

Begin by gathering as much information as possible about your service: which ship(s) you served on, the years you were active, shipyard assignments, your job titles, and any maintenance work you performed. This exposure history will be crucial when building your case.

Resources like ship-by-ship asbestos databases can help you verify whether the vessels you served on contained asbestos.

2. Get a Medical Diagnosis and Documentation

A confirmed diagnosis of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related disease is essential. Share your service history with your doctor so that they understand potential asbestos exposure from your Navy tenure. Early detection can improve treatment options.

3. Apply for VA Disability Benefits

You may be eligible for a VA disability rating if your mesothelioma is linked to your asbestos exposure while serving in the Navy. These benefits can include monthly disability compensation, health care, and possibly survivor benefits. Navy veterans with mesothelioma often qualify for a 100% disability rating.

4. Consult With an Experienced Asbestos Attorney

Filing a legal claim (for example, through an asbestos trust fund or lawsuit) often requires the help of experienced mesothelioma lawyers. These attorneys can help you:

• Prove your asbestos exposure
• Locate trust fund information or defendant companies
• Prepare legal paperwork
• Negotiate a settlement or go to trial

El veterans mesothelioma claims page on our site can connect you with specialized attorneys who focus on Navy-related exposure cases.

5. File Your Legal Claim

Once you’ve organized your documentation, your attorney can help file a lawsuit or a claim against asbestos trust funds. These legal actions typically target the manufacturing companies that supplied asbestos-containing materials to the Navy.

It is possible to pursue both VA benefits and a mesothelioma lawsuit at the same time; pursuing one does not disqualify you from the other. Many Navy veterans secure significant compensation from both sources.

Challenges and Tips for Navy Veterans

Latency and Timing

Mesothelioma is known for its long latency period, often 10 to 50 years after exposure. Because of this delay, affected Navy veterans may not receive their diagnosis until much later in life.

Proving Exposure

Some veterans worry about proving they were exposed. But it’s important to note: you don’t always have to personally document every exposure. Knowledgeable mesothelioma attorneys and legal teams know how to reconstruct service records, ship logs, and company documents to establish exposure.

Survivor Claims

If a Navy veteran has passed away, surviving family members may still be able to file a wrongful death claim or continue a pending claim. Survivors may also be eligible for VA survivor benefits.

Why Acting Now Matters

Because of mesothelioma’s latency and the advanced age of many Navy veterans, time can be critical. Filing the correct claim now can help ensure you or your loved one receive deserved compensation, medical care, and support.

Additionally, having an experienced legal team on your side early ensures that crucial documentation, like ship logs, service records, and employment history, is gathered while it is still accessible.

“Veterans account for 30 percent of all mesothelioma diagnoses.”

Getting Help and Resources

If you are ready to begin the veterans mesothelioma claim process, start with these steps:

1. Visit our veterans claims hub for more information and to connect with legal help.
2. Talk to your doctor about potential asbestos exposure during your Navy service.
3. Collect your service records, ship assignments, and occupational history.
4. Request a free case evaluation with a mesothelioma lawyer who has experience handling Navy and shipyard exposure cases.

With the right support, you can confidently move forward with your claim and fight for compensation and justice.

For more legal support and connections to experienced attorneys, contact Centro de abogados especializados en mesotelioma today.

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.