Let a top-rated and experienced Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer help you and your family fight for the compensation you deserve after asbestos exposure. Oklahoma job sites have been responsible for causing asbestos exposure and illness in many workers, mainly through the oil and gas industry.
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. To begin, we offer a streamlined process to help you determine your eligibility. Start with a free legal consultation where we’ll explore your life and work history to identify potential asbestos exposure.
During this consultation, expect to:
- Answer questions about your occupational and residential history.
- Discuss any known instances of asbestos exposure.
- Receive guidance tailored to your personal circumstances.
Once your eligibility is assessed, fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on:
- Experienced mesothelioma attorneys in your area.
- How to file a claim for asbestos trust funds.
- Steps to get paid in 90 days, and more.
Take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve with our comprehensive support and expert guidance.
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
We offer assistance in all cities and towns in Oklahoma, including:
Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Lawton, Edmond, Moore, Midwest City, Enid, Stillwater, Muskogee, Bartlesville, Owasso, Shawnee, Ardmore, Ponca City, Yukon, Duncan, Bixby, Del City, Sapulpa, Altus, Bethany, Sand Springs, Mustang, Claremore, Jenks, McAlester, El Reno, Ada, Durant, Chickasha, Tahlequah, Miami, Woodward, Elk City, Okmulgee, Guymon, Weatherford, Choctaw, Glenpool, Guthrie, Warr Acres, Coweta, Clinton, Pryor Creek, The Village, Newcastle, Sallisaw, Wagoner, Poteau, Cushing, Blanchard, Skiatook, Seminole, Catoosa, Idabel, Blackwell, Anadarko, Grove, Noble, Tecumseh, Piedmont, Tuttle, Purcell, Collinsville, Pauls Valley, Henryetta, Holdenville, Vinita, Harrah, Hugo, Lone Grove, Perry, Alva, Sulphur, Kingfisher, Marlow, Sayre, McLoud, Bristow, Slaughterville, Verdigris, Broken Bow, Fort Gibson, Spencer, Pocola, Stilwell, Madill, Nichols Hills, Frederick, Nowata, Hobart, Pawhuska, Hominy, Dewey, Park Hill, Wewoka, Heavener, Checotah, and more.
Oklahoma Asbestos Facts
- Oklahoma ranks near the middle in the nation for asbestos-related deaths.
- Between 1999 and 2017, Oklahoma had 2,618 deaths related to asbestos exposure.
- Most of those deaths were the result of lung cancer, while 485 were from mesothelioma and 203 were from asbestosis.
- Oklahoma County currently has the highest number of asbestos-related deaths in the state.
When to Work With a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Oklahoma
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Oklahoma, contact an experienced asbestos attorney or law firm as soon as possible. A lawyer can do several things to help you in this terrible situation:
- Review your case for free and provide options for seeking compensation
- Handle all steps of the legal process so that you can focus on your family and your own health
- Investigate your past asbestos exposure to find evidence and build a strong case
- Maximize the compensation you receive through a mesothelioma settlement, jury award, or asbestos trust fund claim
- Provide contingency payment, so you pay nothing until they win.
Absolutely, the law firm is willing to meet with clients in Oklahoma, and there’s flexibility in how this can be done. Their team will arrange to meet you at a place that’s convenient for you, whether that’s in person or through a virtual meeting. Best of all, there’s no additional cost for them to travel to your location.
Asbestos lawsuits are typically not filed as class actions due to the personalized nature of each case and the varying degrees of impact on individuals. Class action suits often lump together numerous plaintiffs, which can dilute the amount of compensation each person receives. In contrast, individual lawsuits allow for greater scrutiny of each claimant’s specific circumstances, leading to potentially higher compensation that more accurately reflects their unique medical expenses and suffering.
Additionally, personal attention is crucial in asbestos-related cases. Individual lawsuits enable attorneys to focus on the distinct details and complexities of each case, tailoring their approach to maximize the outcome. This personalized approach increases the likelihood of securing the full compensation deserved for medical treatments and other associated costs.
Ultimately, the decision to file individually rather than as a class action ensures that each victim’s case is effectively represented and the specific damages are fully addressed.
What Kind of Mesothelioma Claim Can I File in Oklahoma?
If you have mesothelioma, you are eligible to seek compensation. There are a few options that a lawyer can explain:
- Mesothelioma personal injury lawsuit. Mesothelioma is considered a personal injury because asbestos exposure is almost always negligent. You were probably exposed at work, and companies can be held accountable for your illness.
- Mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit. You also have rights if your loved one died from mesothelioma. Often, a victim begins a personal injury lawsuit but passes away before it resolves. Their family can continue it as a wrongful death suit.
- Asbestos trust fund claim. Many asbestos companies went bankrupt and cannot be sued. They set up asbestos trust funds to compensate victims. Your lawyer can determine which trusts you are eligible for and help you make a claim.
- VA benefits claim. If you served in the military, you might have been exposed to asbestos during your time in the service. You likely qualify for VA benefits, like monthly disability compensation.
You could be eligible for one or more of these options. Your lawyer will advise you and help you take the next steps.
How Long Does it Take to Get Compensation for Mesothelioma?
Experienced asbestos attorneys know that your time is limited. They push hard to get compensation as soon as possible. Many people get compensation through a mesothelioma settlement within 90 days.
Most lawyers will try to settle your case out of court. If it goes to trial, it could take years to resolve and for you to see the compensation you deserve.
What is the Average Settlement Amount for Mesothelioma Lawsuits?
When it comes to mesothelioma lawsuits, financial compensation can vary significantly depending on various factors. Generally, settlements for these cases range from approximately $1 million to $1.4 million. This sum typically reflects a mutually agreed-upon resolution between the parties involved, providing funds for treatment expenses, lost income, and other related costs.
In contrast, if a case goes to trial and results in a favorable verdict, the compensation awarded can be notably higher. On average, jury verdicts for mesothelioma cases fall between $5 million and $11.4 million. This discrepancy underscores the potential benefits of pursuing a case through the legal system while also highlighting the unpredictability of trial outcomes.
Past Mesothelioma Settlement Amounts in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, several substantial settlements and verdicts have been awarded to individuals affected by mesothelioma, a serious illness often linked to asbestos exposure. Here are some notable examples:
- A Seminole resident received a $4.98 million settlement.
- An asbestos worker in Calvin secured $4.59 million.
- A secretary from Tulsa was awarded $3.92 million.
- A foreman and U.S. Navy veteran in Chouteau obtained $2.7 million.
- A heavy equipment operator and truck driver received $1.97 million.
- A U.S. Army veteran and auto mechanic in Checotah settled for $1.92 million.
- A boilermaker in Midwest City was granted $2.39 million.
- An auto worker in Lookeba with peritoneal mesothelioma achieved a $1.58 million settlement.
- An oil rig worker from Tulsa was awarded $3 million.
It’s crucial to recognize that these amounts are not guarantees for future cases. The compensation provided in mesothelioma cases depends deeply on the unique circumstances and specifics of each case.
How is the Value of a Mesothelioma Settlement Determined?
Understanding how the value of a mesothelioma settlement is determined can empower those affected by the disease. Although each case is unique, several key factors typically influence the settlement amount.
- Severity of Illness: The progression and impact of mesothelioma on an individual’s health plays a crucial role. More severe and debilitating conditions generally lead to higher settlements.
- Extent of Asbestos Exposure: The duration and intensity of exposure to asbestos are critical. Longer exposure and higher asbestos levels often raise the settlement value.
- Medical Expenses and Treatment Costs: All medical expenses—past, present, and future—are taken into account. This includes treatments, medications, and any necessary medical support.
- Lost Wages and Financial Impact: Compensation typically considers lost income due to the inability to work, alongside the broader financial burden on families.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress and diminished quality of life caused by the illness are evaluated to determine their effect on the victim’s life.
- Legal Precedents and Jurisdiction: Previous case outcomes in the jurisdiction where the lawsuit is filed can influence settlements. Laws vary by state or region, impacting verdicts and awards.
- Defendant’s Willingness to Settle: Companies may prefer to settle to avoid costly trials, which can influence negotiations and settlement amounts.
The combination of these factors determines the final settlement amount, highlighting the personalized nature of each case.
How Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Oklahoma?
For much of its history, Oklahoma was primarily an agricultural state. The economy became more industrialized in the 1940s after the Great Depression, and the Dust Bowl damaged farms and ranches.
The oil industry, heavy manufacturing, and construction sectors were the primary users of asbestos in Oklahoma and elsewhere.
Oil and Gas
According to StateImpact, a reporting project of National Public Radio member stations, the oil and gas industry accounts for “roughly one-quarter of all jobs in Oklahoma, directly or indirectly.”
Halliburton Corporation was founded in Duncan. Several other oil firms, including ONEOK, Williams Companies, Oklahoma Gas & Electric, ConocoPhillips, and Continental Resources, are either based in the state or have a strong presence there.
Asbestos was prized for resisting heat, fire, and electricity and adding strength and flexibility to materials used in oil and gas. It was used for insulation, fire-retardant, and as a strength-enhancing additive to metals and other materials. It was found in the buildings, equipment, and machinery.
Asbestos in Oklahoma Buildings
The construction industry used asbestos in hundreds of materials, including insulation, siding, roofing materials, flooring, adhesives, drywall, and more. Anyone who worked in construction before the 1980s could have been exposed to asbestos.
Several buildings in Oklahoma still contain asbestos and continue to put people at risk. The First Christian Church in Oklahoma City contained asbestos and was demolished in 2022. The demolition process is hazardous and can expose workers and nearby residents.
In Norman, Oklahoma, renovations uncovered asbestos in the city’s library. Doing renovation or repair work without first testing for and abating asbestos is risky and dangerous.
The Oklahoma City Council approved funds in 2023 to remove asbestos from several schools in the city. Asbestos in school buildings is common and puts teachers, staff, and students at risk.
Asbestos Superfund Sites in Oklahoma
Some of Oklahoma’sthe oil and refining sites are now Superfund Sites contaminated with asbestos and other pollutants. The Hudson Refinery in Cushing, Oklahoma, was abandoned in the 1980s after operating for more than 60 years.
The Fourth Street Refinery in Oklahoma City was also abandoned and contained asbestos. Cleanup concluded in 2008 but not before the site put nearby residents at risk of exposure to asbestos and other harmful substances.
Why Is Mesothelioma Difficult to Diagnose?
Diagnosing mesothelioma presents a unique set of challenges primarily due to how its symptoms manifest. The symptoms often mimic those of more common illnesses, leading to frequent misdiagnosis. For instance, individuals may experience chest pain or shortness of breath, which are symptoms common to conditions like pneumonia or lung cancer.
Adding to the complexity is the latency period associated with mesothelioma. Symptoms can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to appear after the initial asbestos exposure. This long waiting period can cause patients and doctors to overlook potential asbestos exposure that occurred decades earlier.
Furthermore, mesothelioma’s rarity poses another hurdle. Many healthcare professionals may go their entire careers with limited or no experience diagnosing it. As a result, they might not immediately consider mesothelioma as a potential cause when evaluating patients with general respiratory or abdominal symptoms.
Ultimately, the combination of symptom similarity, prolonged latency, and limited familiarity among practitioners makes mesothelioma a particularly elusive disease to correctly identify.
How Asbestos Exposure Leads to Mesothelioma
Asbestos exposure is a serious health risk that can result in life-threatening conditions, including mesothelioma. But how does this process unfold?
The Danger of Asbestos Fibers
When tiny asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they pose a significant danger to your health. These fibers can infiltrate the body and lodge themselves in the protective lining of organs, such as the lungs or abdomen.
Cellular Irritation and Mutation
Once settled, the fibers irritate surrounding healthy cells and tissues. This persistent irritation can cause cells to undergo mutations, which can eventually become cancerous. Over many years, these mutations may develop into mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer.
Long Latency Period
One of the unique challenges of asbestos exposure is its long latency period. Symptoms of mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to emerge after the initial exposure. This delay makes early detection and diagnosis incredibly difficult, often resembling symptoms of other illnesses.
Understanding the link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma underscores the importance of prevention and early intervention. Avoiding exposure in the first place and seeking medical evaluation if exposure has occurred are crucial steps in reducing the risk of developing this devastating disease.
How Asbestos Exposure Leads to Mesothelioma
Asbestos exposure is a serious health risk that can result in life-threatening conditions, including mesothelioma. But how does this process unfold?
The Danger of Asbestos Fibers
When tiny asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they pose a significant danger to your health. These fibers can infiltrate the body and lodge themselves in the protective lining of organs, such as the lungs or abdomen.
Cellular Irritation and Mutation
Once settled, the fibers irritate surrounding healthy cells and tissues. This persistent irritation can cause cells to undergo mutations, which can eventually become cancerous. Over many years, these mutations may develop into mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer.
Long Latency Period
One of the unique challenges of asbestos exposure is its long latency period. Symptoms of mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to emerge after the initial exposure. This delay makes early detection and diagnosis incredibly difficult, often resembling symptoms of other illnesses.
Understanding the link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma underscores the importance of prevention and early intervention. Avoiding exposure in the first place and seeking medical evaluation if exposure has occurred are crucial steps in reducing the risk of developing this devastating disease.
Oklahoma Job Sites with Known Asbestos Exposure
Some of the workplaces known to have contained asbestos in Oklahoma are:
- Altus Air Force Base in Altus
- Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City
- Vance Air Force Base in Enid
- Fort Sill U.S. Army Base in Lawton
- Phillips Petroleum Refinery in Okmulgee
- Cushing Oil Terminal in Cushing
- Ben Franklin Refining Company in Tulsa
- Norman Naval Air Station (closed) in Norman
- Oklahoma Gas & Electric Company Plant in Drumright
- Duncan Oil Company Refinery in Duncan
- National Zinc Company in Bartlesville
- Standard Asbestos Manufacturing and Insulating Company in Oklahoma City
- BC Fertilizer Plant in Enid
- Enid Asbestos Company in Enid
- Midwest Insulation and Material Company in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma Asbestos Laws
State laws dictate how and when asbestos lawsuits proceed. Asbestos regulations aim to keep current Oklahoma residents and workers safe.
Statute of Limitations on Mesothelioma and Asbestos Lawsuits
The statute of limitations puts a time limit on when you can file a lawsuit:
- Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 12, § 91 et seq. provides the statute of limitations when filing an asbestos-related lawsuit in Oklahoma.
- If you plan to file, make sure you do so within two years from the date of the discovery of the illness.
- If you plan to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Oklahoma, it must be done within two years from the actual date of the victim’s death.
- Both wrongful death and asbestos-related injury cases fall under the discovery rule.
Asbestos Claims Transparency
Oklahoma is among many states that passed an asbestos claims transparency law. This law requires plaintiffs in asbestos lawsuits to disclose any claims they have made or plan to make with asbestos trust funds.
The court can then offset any jury award the plaintiff wins by deducting the amount they received from an asbestos trust.
Take-Home Duty and Secondhand Asbestos Exposure
Oklahoma is also among many states that set a precedent not recognizing take-home duty in asbestos cases. Take-home duty means that a company is responsible for warning workers about the dangers of asbestos and anyone else who might come into contact with them.
Secondhand asbestos exposure sometimes occurs when a worker accidentally brings asbestos fibers home on their clothing. This exposes people in the home and sometimes causes asbestos illnesses.
In 1992, the Oklahoma 10th Circuit Court found that asbestos insulation manufacturers were not liable for the death of a woman from asbestos. She developed mesothelioma after handling her husband’s clothing. He worked with asbestos insulation.
Oklahoma Asbestos Safety Rules
Asbestos rules and regulations in Oklahoma are carried out by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ):
- For asbestos control, the state of Oklahoma follows OAC 252:100, 41-15 of the NESHAP regulations as well as 40 CFR Part 61.140-157 of the National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants.
- For any demolitions in Oklahoma, regardless of whether asbestos is present at the demolition location, written notification must be sent to the state.
- All demolitions, renovations, and asbestos abatement projects must follow the aforementioned NESHAP regulations.
- NESHAP laws must be adhered to at all times in the state of Oklahoma. Failure to comply with the regulations could possibly result in civil penalties and fines of up to $10,000, per the Oklahoma Clean Air Act.
- Renovations do not require prior written notification and approval as long as no asbestos is in the facility being renovated.
For more detailed information regarding asbestos-related regulations and rules in Oklahoma, contact the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality at 405-702-4100.
Getting Mesothelioma Treatment in Oklahoma
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) helps patients find the best treatment by recognizing the best cancer centers.
Known as NCI-designated facilities, these care centers comprise elite doctors, scientists, and professionals who go above and beyond to research cancer and help treat those affected by the disease.
The Stephenson Cancer Center at the University of Oklahoma is an NCI-designated facility located in Oklahoma City. Patients receive cutting-edge treatment here and have access to clinical trials.
The INTEGRIS Health Cancer Center is not NCI-designated but offers cancer treatment throughout the state. INTEGRIS has six campuses in Oklahoma, including the Proton Campus in Oklahoma City.
Great people. Helped my family through our meso diagnosis.
– Donald H.
Legal Assistance in Oklahoma
Remember, 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 asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area.
