People who developed asbestos cancer in and around Baltimore can rely on an experienced Baltimore mesothelioma lawyer to seek justice. Workplaces in the area, including manufacturing plants, shipyards, construction, paper mills, and steel corporations, relied on asbestos for years and exposed workers.
If you or someone you love suffers from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in Baltimore, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more.
FREE Financial Compensation Packet
- Info on law firms that will recover your HIGHEST COMPENSATION
- Learn how to get paid in 90 days
- File for your share of $30 billion in trust funds
Baltimore Asbestos Facts
- No city in Maryland has seen more asbestos-related deaths than Baltimore.
- Between 1999 and 2017, Maryland had nearly 5,300 asbestos deaths, and over 1,200 of those were in Baltimore County.
- Both industrial manufacturing jobs and shipyards in the city used asbestos for decades and exposed workers.
Why Should I Sue for Mesothelioma in Baltimore?
Most people sue for mesothelioma to seek compensation. Most people with mesothelioma were negligently exposed by asbestos companies that can now be held liable for resulting expenses.
Filing an asbestos claim is crucial because it offers more than just financial relief. It helps cover the exorbitant costs of medical treatments, including travel for advanced care and living expenses when you can no longer work.
Moreover, these claims serve a vital role in holding companies accountable. For years, many companies concealed the dangers of asbestos, prioritizing profit over safety. By pursuing a claim, you not only seek justice for yourself but also contribute to a broader effort to ensure these entities face consequences for their negligence.
Mesothelioma is a devastating and also costly illness. Many people travel for advanced treatment with specialists and can no longer work or earn an income.
How Can a Baltimore Mesothelioma Lawyer Help?
To sue asbestos companies or pursue other sources of compensation, you need a mesothelioma or asbestos lawyer. These cases are far too complicated to attempt without expert legal guidance.
Choose a top Baltimore mesothelioma lawyer in Baltimore who can help you by:
- Providing a free initial consultation to review your case.
- Explaining your options for filing a lawsuit or making a claim.
- Using investigative and medical experts to find the evidence needed to prove your case.
- Maximizing the compensation you are owed.
- Starting a lawsuit and negotiating a fair settlement.
- Litigating your case in court if necessary.
- Making a claim with any asbestos trust funds you qualify for.
- Navigating the veterans benefits system to make a claim.
When selecting a lawyer, prioritize those with:
- Decades of Experience: Look for attorneys who have a long-standing history of handling asbestos cases. Experience is crucial in understanding the complexities of mesothelioma litigation.
- A Proven Track Record: Choose a firm with a history of significant compensation recoveries for mesothelioma clients. A strong track record indicates their ability to successfully advocate for victims.
- No Financial Risk: Opt for lawyers who work on a contingency fee basis. This ensures that you only pay if they win your case, minimizing your financial burden during an already challenging time.
By focusing on these attributes, you can ensure that you are choosing a lawyer who not only offers comprehensive services but also has the experience and success needed to handle your case effectively.
As you choose a mesothelioma lawyer in Baltimore, remember that they should be backed by a nationwide firm. Asbestos lawsuits are complex and often involve multiple defendants in different states.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma Claims in Maryland
In Maryland, the statute of limitations is a crucial set of laws that dictate the time frame within which mesothelioma patients and their families can file a legal claim. This time-sensitive process means that once a diagnosis is received, the clock starts ticking. Therefore, reaching out to a legal expert promptly is imperative.
Key Points to Consider:
- Timeline for Filing: Typically, the statute of limitations in Maryland requires that a mesothelioma claim be filed within three years from the date of diagnosis. If filing on behalf of a deceased loved one, the period generally remains the same but starts from the date of death.
- Why It Matters: Filing within this timeframe is crucial because, after the limitation period expires, the courts will likely refuse to hear the case. This could result in losing the opportunity to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Steps to Take:
- Immediate Action: After a diagnosis, consult with an asbestos attorney as soon as possible to assess your case. Quick action can help ensure all necessary information and documentation are gathered within the legal window.
- Legal Guidance: An experienced lawyer can help navigate the complexities of asbestos litigation and ensure that your claim is filed correctly and promptly.
In conclusion, the statute of limitations is an essential component of filing a mesothelioma claim in Maryland, making immediate legal consultation a vital first step following a diagnosis.
When you work with certain mesothelioma attorneys, they often utilize a contingency fee structure, which means you won’t face any hourly fees or out-of-pocket costs. Instead of an upfront payment, these lawyers agree to receive a portion of the settlement or compensation you receive from your case. This approach ensures they only get paid if they’re successful in securing compensation for you.
This arrangement aligns the attorney’s interests with yours, motivating them to achieve the best possible outcome. You’ll have the reassurance that your financial risk is minimized, allowing you to focus on your health and recovery without concern over accumulating legal costs.
When considering the costs associated with hiring a mesothelioma lawyer, it’s important to note that many firms operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t face hourly fees or upfront expenses. The lawyers only collect payment if they successfully secure compensation for you.
Here’s a breakdown of the financial structure:
- No Hourly Charges: You’re not billed for the hours the lawyers work on your case.
- No Out-of-Pocket Costs: There are no initial fees required to start the process.
- Contingency Fee: The firm only gets paid a percentage of what you win. If there’s no compensation, you don’t owe anything.
This approach can ease the financial burden, allowing you to focus on your health and recovery while your legal team works to secure the compensation you deserve.
How Can Veterans with Mesothelioma Access VA Benefits?
Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma have unique options available to them through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to secure medical and financial support. Navigating these benefits, however, requires a clear understanding of the process. Here’s a breakdown of how veterans can access these essential resources:
- Understand Eligibility Requirements: Veterans must first confirm their eligibility for VA benefits by ensuring their mesothelioma diagnosis is connected to asbestos exposure during military service.
- Prepare Necessary Documentation: Gather all necessary medical records and service documents that link mesothelioma to military service. These papers will form the foundation of your claim.
- File a Claim: Submitting a VA claim is a crucial step. It involves completing the proper forms and providing evidence that corroborates your military exposure and diagnoses.
- Access Support from Accredited Professionals: Work with VA-accredited attorneys or representatives who specialize in mesothelioma cases. These experts can guide veterans through the claims process, ensuring all paperwork is accurately filled and submitted on time.
- Explore Additional Benefits: Beyond medical treatment, veterans may be eligible for monthly compensation, travel reimbursements for VA medical appointments, and potentially, funeral benefits.
By following these steps and utilizing expert resources, veterans can effectively access the VA benefits they are entitled to, providing critical support during their battle with mesothelioma.
How Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Baltimore?
Baltimore has a long history of industrial and shipping industries that used asbestos. You could have been exposed on several job sites if you worked in the area.
The Curtis Bay Coast Guard Yard
Once situated in downtown Baltimore, Curtis Bay Coast Guard Yard was used to repair several vessels until the 1990s. The busiest time for the yard was during World War I and War II. At that time, nearly 3,000 people worked there.
As with most shipyards in that area, the Curtis Bay Coast Guard Yard used massive amounts of asbestos in construction and repairs. Workers risked being exposed and developing serious, life-threatening illnesses, including mesothelioma.
Key Highway Shipyard
Another maritime company in Baltimore, Key Highway Shipyard, also used asbestos. The facility mainly worked on repairs and making components for ships. It used asbestos in those parts and materials, putting workers at risk for years.
During World War I and World War II, the shipyard repaired over 1,000 naval ships. Around 11,000 people worked at the Key Highway Shipyard, and almost every worker faced asbestos exposure.
The shipyard closed in 1982, but shortly after, in 1988, several former employees filed an asbestos-related lawsuit against Raymark Industries, the manufacturer that supplied parts to Key Highway Shipyard. Many former workers had already developed illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Titan Steel Corporation
Titan Steel Corporation was one of the many steel corporations that relied heavily on asbestos before the early 1980s. Titan Steel Corporation became one of the biggest distributors of steel and tin worldwide during its peak.
Many of the workers at Titan were exposed to asbestos. Steel manufacturing relied on the mineral because of its ability to resist heat and prevent fires. Today, former steelworkers are still diagnosed with mesothelioma from the exposure that occurred decades ago.
Other Job Sites Associated with Asbestos Use in Baltimore
Along with steel corporations and shipyards, oil companies, hospitals, and other public buildings used asbestos. Some still contain asbestos today and pose a risk.
Schools
- Seton Keough High School
- Arundel Elementary School
- Belmont Elementary School
- Calverton Middle School
- Cardinal Gibbons School
- Deep Creek Middle School
- Dunbar High School
- Johns Hopkins University
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
- Edmondson High School
- Forest Park High School
- Greenspring High School
- Hilton Elementary School
- Howard High School
- Raven High School
- Lombard Middle School
- Middle River High School
- Northwestern Senior High School
- Parkville High School
- Baltimore Polytechnic Institute
- Saint Michael’s School
- Sussex Elementary School
- Walbrook High School
- Western High School
- Allegheny Community College
Oil Companies
- American Oil Company
- Baltimore United Oil Company
- Caso Standard Oil Company
- Continental Oil Company
- Esso Standard Oil Company
- Gulf Oil Company
- Humble Oil Company
- Hess Oil Company
- Standard Oil Refinery
Steel Companies
- Armco Steel Corporation
- Bethlehem Steel Mill
- Eastern Stainless Steel Corporation
- Scullin Steel Company
- Sparrow Points Steel Mill
Hospitals
- Baltimore City Hospital
- Bon Secours Hospital
- Franklin Square Hospital
- Good Samaritan Hospital
- Harbor Hospital
- Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Montebello State Hospital
- Mount Sinai Hospital
- Saint Agnes Hospital
- Spring Grove Hospital
- Union Memorial Hospital
The Power of Personal Stories in Raising Mesothelioma Awareness
Sharing personal stories of mesothelioma can profoundly impact awareness and understanding. Each narrative brings a unique perspective that can resonate deeply with audiences, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the individual.
Humanizing the Statistics
Statistics and facts are crucial, but personal stories breathe life into numbers. When people share their experiences, they offer a glimpse into the emotional and physical challenges faced by those affected. This human connection makes the issue more relatable and memorable to a wider audience.
Inspiring Action and Advocacy
Real-life accounts have the power to inspire action. When someone hears a personal story, they are more likely to feel compelled to contribute to the cause, whether through donations, advocacy, or volunteering. Michelle Pfeiffer and Steve McQueen have shared their personal connections to mesothelioma, bringing significant attention to the disease and encouraging others to get involved.
Building Community Support
Sharing experiences fosters a sense of community among those affected. It provides comfort and validation, letting others know they are not alone. Bob Stephenson’s story, for instance, not only raised awareness but also created a support network that connected him with others going through similar journeys.
Educating the Public
Stories personalize the dangers of asbestos exposure, educating people on how mesothelioma develops and why prevention is critical. By contextualizing the experiences of those who endured the disease, personal narratives can highlight precautionary measures and influence policy changes aimed at reducing exposure risks.
In conclusion, personal stories don’t just spread awareness; they forge connections, inspire action, provide education, and create community support, ultimately transforming the landscape of mesothelioma awareness and advocacy.
Bethlehem Steel Company Lawsuit
In 2007, the families of former Bethlehem Steel Company employees received $3.97 million in damages. The workers passed away from asbestos-related lung cancer after working with equipment that used asbestos brakes.
Eagle-Picher Industries Inc., Pittsburgh Corning Corp., and Owens-Illinois Inc. were all found at fault by the Baltimore City Court. All three companies were responsible for the manufacturing of asbestos-containing parts that were used at the steel company.
Baltimore Asbestos Lawsuit Backlog
The Baltimore City Circuit Court faced a major backlog of asbestos lawsuits in recent years. In 2019, approximately 27,000 asbestos cases were waiting to be resolved in Baltimore.
These involved thousands of victims who worked in the city’s steel mills, shipyards, and other workplaces with asbestos. Many waited years for a resolution only to have their cases dropped. Others had their cases quickly resolved in a flurry of activity. The backlog was blamed mainly on one firm that let cases languish for years or decades.
In 2020, the Baltimore City judiciary began a plan to bring forth at least 500 asbestos cases per month to try to chip away at the mountain of lawsuits.
Mesothelioma Treatment in Baltimore
Mesothelioma patients in Baltimore have access to two world-class cancer centers. Both offer treatment for mesothelioma patients.
Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
Baltimore is home to the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University. It offers advanced treatments and conducts cancer research.
The Lung Cancer Program is a multidisciplinary team focusing on lung cancer that also treats patients with pleural mesothelioma. The Cancer Center also treats peritoneal mesothelioma and offers HIPEC treatment.
Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center
The Marlene and Steward Greenebaume Comprehensive Cancer Center is part of the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. The Mesothelioma and Thoracic Oncology Treatment and Research Center treats patients with pleural mesothelioma and gives them access to clinical trials.
Patients with peritoneal mesothelioma also have access to HIPEC here, the leading treatment for the abdominal form of mesothelioma.
How Long After Asbestos Exposure Can Mesothelioma Develop?
Mesothelioma, a severe cancer primarily linked to asbestos exposure, has a notably long latency period. After an individual inhales or ingests asbestos fibers, these tiny particles can embed themselves in the lining of vital organs, such as the lungs. Over time, they cause persistent irritation.
Unlike many diseases that manifest shortly after contact with a harmful substance, mesothelioma takes its time. The disease may not emerge until many years later, often remaining dormant and undetected. For many individuals, the timeline ranges widely from 10 to 50 years post-exposure before symptoms become evident.
This extended latency period is why mesothelioma often affects older adults, who may have been exposed to asbestos in their careers or through environmental contact decades earlier. Therefore, it’s crucial for those with past exposure to remain vigilant and undergo regular health screenings.
People in this company are friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. They quickly answered all my questions and patiently walked me through the case and any open issues. I so appreciate their diligence and patience during this challenging time.
– Jingjing Z.
Legal Assistance in Baltimore
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for significant compensation. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. For questions and assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-793-4540.
