Experienced Pennsylvania mesothelioma lawyers help victims of asbestos exposure throughout the state. Many industries and workplaces in Pennsylvania used asbestos over the years, which caused workers to develop mesothelioma and other related illnesses.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to substantial compensation.
Individuals harmed by asbestos exposure at work, as well as their families, may also qualify for financial compensation. The effects of asbestos exposure often extend beyond the immediate victims, impacting family members and loved ones who may also be eligible for claims.
We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Pennsylvania, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a mesothelioma or asbestos trust fund claim, and much more.
Understanding your eligibility is the first step toward receiving the compensation you deserve. Whether you were directly exposed or affected through a family member, there are resources and legal avenues available to support you.
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 assist asbestos victims and their families in all areas of Pennsylvania, including:
Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading, Upper Darby, Scranton, Bensalem, Lancaster,Lower Merion, Bethlehem, Abington, Bristol Township, Millcreek Township, Harrisburg, Haverford, Lower Paxton, Altoona, Middletown Township, York City, Hempfield Township, Penn Hills, State College, Wilkes, Barre, Northampton Township, Manheim Township, Cheltenham, Norristown, Falls Township, Chester,Mount Lebanon, Warminster, Lower Makefield, Bethel Park, Radnor, Lower Macungie, Ross Township, Ridley, North Huntingdon, Tredyffrin, Williamsport, Cranberry Township, McCandless, Shaler, Upper Merion, Monroeville, Hampden, York Township, Plum Borough, Spring Township, Whitehall Township, Easton, Springettsbury, Horsham, Upper Dublin, Exeter Township, Lower Providence, Lebanon, Montgomery Township, Hazleton, Moon, Derry Township, Susquehanna Township, Springfield Township, Upper Moreland, Swatara Township, Bethlehem Township, East Hempfield, Warrington Township, Marple, New Castle,West Goshen, Unity, Pottstown, Upper Providence Township, Peters Township, Upper Macungie, Dover Township, East Pennsboro, Palmer, Johnstown, Coolbaugh, Chambersburg, West Mifflin, Buckingham Township, Murrysville, Manor Township, Penn Township, Baldwin Borough, Muhlenberg, McKeesport, Springfield Township, Bethlehem, Newtown Township, South Whitehall, Upper St. Clair, Stroud, Whitpain, Lower Southampton, West Manchester.
Facts About Asbestos Use in Pennsylvania
- By the mid-1800s, Pennsylvania’s economy was largely industrial. Industrial workplaces have been the biggest users of asbestos.
- Factories, railroads, and textile mills contributed to the industrialization of Pennsylvania, making the state one of the biggest economic powerhouses in the pre-Civil War U.S. From 1861 until the mid-20th century.
- The industrialized economy and strong growth in Pennsylvania over the years has had a serious impact on worker exposure to asbestos, with most workplaces using it.
- In recent years, Pennsylvania has consistently ranked in the top five or ten states for deaths related to asbestos and mesothelioma.
- The exposure caused 3,257 mesothelioma-related deaths from 1999 to 2017.
- Another 14,533 people died from other asbestos illnesses.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that Pennsylvania’s mesothelioma death rate is 20.8 per 1 million residents.
Understanding Mesothelioma and Its Causes
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs and other internal organs. It is notably linked to asbestos exposure, a hazardous material once prevalent across various industries due to its fire-resistant properties.
How Asbestos Exposure Leads to Mesothelioma
- Industrial Use: Asbestos was commonly used in construction, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing because of its durability and heat resistance.
- Health Risks: Despite these benefits, asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can lodge in the body, leading to severe health complications over time.
Health Consequences of Asbestos
- Mesothelioma: The most recognized disease linked to asbestos, mesothelioma, develops in the mesothelial cells lining the chest or abdomen.
- Other Lung Issues: Exposure isn’t limited to just cancer; it can also cause asbestosis, a chronic lung disease, and damage to the pleura, which can impair lung function.
- Additional Cancers: Besides mesothelioma, asbestos has been connected to lung cancer and even cancers in other organs such as the colon.
Understanding the link between asbestos exposure and these serious health issues underscores the importance of seeking medical attention if you suspect prolonged exposure. Early detection and intervention can be crucial in managing health outcomes.
Do I Need a Pennsylvania Mesothelioma Lawyer?
Anyone who worked in an industry that used asbestos is now at risk for mesothelioma and other asbestos illnesses. These include lung cancer and asbestosis. If you worked in one of these industries or already have a mesothelioma diagnosis, you need an asbestos attorney.
Top mesothelioma lawyers and law firms serve asbestos exposure victims throughout Pennsylvania. They provide valuable advice, guidance, and resources that help people with mesothelioma get compensation.
Mesothelioma and asbestos law firms offer free initial consultations, so don’t hesitate to reach out and get some information.
Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in Pennsylvania
The most important reason to work with a Pennsylvania mesothelioma lawyer is to get compensation for expenses related to your asbestos illness. Navigating the complexities of asbestos-related claims in Pennsylvania can be daunting, but understanding the framework of asbestos trust funds is crucial for those seeking compensation. These trust funds were established as a safety net for individuals harmed by asbestos exposure, especially when the responsible corporations have gone bankrupt due to lawsuits or business challenges.
The U.S. Government mandates the creation of these funds during Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings to ensure that victims can still receive the compensation they deserve, even when the original manufacturers or users of asbestos products are no longer operational. With an estimated $30 billion available in asbestos trust funds across the United States, these resources remain vital for those affected.
Who is eligible to access asbestos trust funds?
Eligibility for accessing these funds extends to a broad range of individuals:
- Those exposed to mesothelioma in the workplace
- Individuals who came into contact with asbestos-containing products at work or at home
- People who experienced secondary exposure due to a family member’s occupational asbestos contact
- Residents living near asbestos mines or other environmental sources
- Families who have lost loved ones to mesothelioma due to these exposures
To successfully access these funds, claimants need to provide detailed evidence of their asbestos exposure. This is where a skilled Pennsylvania mesothelioma lawyer becomes indispensable, guiding you through the process to secure the maximum compensation.
An experienced asbestos attorney in PA can help you make one or more claims:
- Mesothelioma personal injury lawsuit
- Mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit
- Asbestos trust fund claim
- VA benefits claim
Engaging with a knowledgeable attorney ensures that you navigate these legal avenues effectively, maximizing your chances of receiving the compensation you are entitled to.
Compensation Options for Pennsylvania Residents with Mesothelioma
If you’re a Pennsylvania resident diagnosed with mesothelioma, you have access to several types of compensation. Understanding these can help alleviate the financial burden brought on by this serious condition.
1. Economic Damages
Economic damages are the tangible financial losses caused by mesothelioma and include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers both past medical bills and future treatment costs.
- Lost Wages: If you’re unable to work due to your illness, compensation can address lost income.
- Funeral Costs: In the unfortunate event of a passing, these expenses can be covered.
2. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages address the more intangible effects of mesothelioma, aspects that are harder to quantify but equally important:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for both physical and emotional suffering is available.
- Loss of Quality of Life: Adjustments you have to make can be financially acknowledged.
- Loss of Consortium: If the illness affects spousal relationships, this can also be considered.
3. Settlements and Trial Verdicts
Compensation through settlements or trial verdicts is another crucial path:
- Settlements typically range from $1 million to $1.4 million, providing a quicker resolution.
- Trial Verdicts—if the case goes to court—average around $2.4 million but involve more time and unpredictability.
Why Pursue Compensation?
While financial compensation can’t undo the emotional and physical toll of mesothelioma, it can significantly ease the burden by covering essential costs. Actively pursuing claims ensures that both economic and non-economic aspects of the damages are recognized, helping you and your family move forward with added support.
Navigating the legal route can be complex, so enlisting experienced legal professionals familiar with asbestos cases in Pennsylvania is advisable.
Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Pennsylvania involves several detailed steps, ensuring the process is thorough and your case is strong. Here’s how it generally unfolds:
1. Consultation with a Mesothelioma Lawyer
Begin by consulting a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases. Their expertise in Pennsylvania laws is crucial for navigating the complexities of asbestos litigation.
2. Investigation of Asbestos Exposure
Your attorney will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your asbestos exposure history. This step is vital to identify all potential parties who may be liable for your condition, such as former employers or product manufacturers.
3. Preparing and Filing the Lawsuit
Once the investigation is complete, your lawyer will draft and file the lawsuit in the appropriate Pennsylvania court. This involves handling all necessary legal documents and ensuring that deadlines are met.
4. Gathering Evidence
To build a robust case, your attorney will gather evidence, including:
- Medical Records: Documenting your diagnosis and treatment.
- Eyewitness Accounts: Statements from colleagues or others who witnessed your exposure.
- Expert Testimony: Insights from medical and occupational experts.
5. Legal Representation in Hearings
Throughout the lawsuit, your lawyer will represent you in all court hearings and ensure that your case is presented compellingly and persuasively.
6. Negotiations and Settlement Discussions
Your attorney will handle all communications with insurance companies and other involved parties. Skilled negotiation can lead to a favorable settlement without needing to proceed to trial.
7. Trial Proceedings (if necessary)
If a settlement isn’t reached, your case may go to trial. Your lawyer will advocate on your behalf, representing your interests vigorously to secure the compensation you deserve.
Choosing the Right Attorney
Selecting an experienced mesothelioma attorney is essential. They should have a proven track record in similar cases, which can significantly impact the outcome of your lawsuit. Effective negotiation skills are crucial for maximizing your settlement, ensuring that you receive the compensation to which you’re entitled.
In summary, while the process may seem daunting, having a knowledgeable legal professional by your side can make all the difference in navigating your mesothelioma lawsuit in Pennsylvania.
Filing a VA Asbestos Claim: Understanding the Requirements
If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos during military service and are considering a Veterans Affairs (VA) claim, understanding the requirements is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to know and do to navigate this process successfully.
Eligibility Criteria
- Military Service: You need to have served in the military, as asbestos exposure often occurred on ships, in shipyards, or in various military buildings. Your military records should reflect your service.
- Exposure Evidence: You must provide evidence of asbestos exposure. This might include service records that indicate your duties and potential contact with asbestos-containing materials.
- Health Diagnosis: A confirmed diagnosis of an asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, is essential. Your medical records must clearly document this diagnosis.
Documentation Requirements
- Military Records: Find documentation that supports your claim of asbestos exposure during your service. This includes duty assignments and locations.
- Medical Records: Collect all relevant medical documentation that proves your asbestos-related illness. Doctor’s notes and pathology reports can strengthen your application.
- Nexus Letter: Obtain a nexus letter from a medical professional. This document should connect your military asbestos exposure to your current health condition.
Application Process
- Complete VA Forms: Fill out the necessary VA forms. These include a detailed application that outlines your exposure and health conditions.
- Submission: Submit your claim through the appropriate VA channels. You can do this online, at a VA office, or through a representative.
- Review and Wait: After submission, the VA will review your claim. They may request additional information or clarification, so be prepared for follow-up tasks.
Seek Assistance
Navigating a VA asbestos claim can be complex. Consider enlisting the help of a veterans’ service organization (VSO) or an accredited VA claims agent. They can offer valuable guidance throughout the process, increasing your chances of a successful claim.
Understanding and meeting these requirements is vital for a successful VA asbestos claim. Ensure you have comprehensive documentation and consider professional assistance to navigate this challenging process effectively.
How Corporations Can Be Held Liable for Asbestos-Related Mesothelioma
Corporations have a legal responsibility to ensure product safety and worker protection. When these obligations aren’t met, companies can be held accountable for any harm that follows, including asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma.
Employee and Consumer Safety
Corporations are required to sell products that are reasonably safe and to inform consumers of any potential hazards. Similarly, they must implement safety measures to protect employees on the job. Failing to do so opens the door to legal liability for harm inflicted on either consumers or workers.
Secondary Asbestos Exposure
The issue becomes more complex with secondary asbestos exposure. When workers unknowingly bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing or skin, these particles can become airborne, putting family members at risk. This dangerous exposure can also lead to mesothelioma, enabling those affected to seek compensation.
Legal Recourse and Compensation
Victims of asbestos exposure, including secondary exposure, have successfully pursued significant financial compensation through lawsuits and settlements. This financial redress serves as a crucial acknowledgment of the harm caused and the failure of corporations to protect individuals both at work and at home.
In summary, corporations can be held liable for asbestos-related mesothelioma if they neglect consumer safety, worker protection, or decontamination practices, leading to direct or secondary exposure. Legal actions often hold them accountable, resulting in compensatory settlements for the affected individuals.
What to Look for in a Pennsylvania Mesothelioma Lawyer
Choosing representation is the most important factor in getting the compensation you deserve. Look for the following characteristics when looking for the right asbestos lawyer:
- Experience helping asbestos victims
- Proven wins for previous asbestos clients
- Experience settling lawsuits and litigating in court
- Experience settling mesothelioma lawsuits quickly and for maximum compensation
- A free initial consultation
- Contingency payment, so you pay nothing until they win
- Access to resources, investigators, medical experts, and the time to dedicate to your case
Proving asbestos exposure and its connection to illness is complicated and essential for winning compensation. Your lawyer should have experience finding the evidence to build a strong case and to give you the best chance of recovering maximum damages.
Notable Mesothelioma Settlement Amounts in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, there have been several significant settlements for mesothelioma cases, reflecting the severe impact of asbestos exposure. Here are some key examples:
- Over $32,000,000: A landmark verdict concluded in favor of the plaintiff in a case involving secondhand asbestos exposure. This substantial award was the result of liability attributed to both a premises owner and a contractor.
- $5,100,000+ Settlement: This compensation was awarded to a Navy machinist’s mate who later worked as a civilian maintenance mechanic. His diagnosis of mesothelioma was directly linked to asbestos exposure during his service.
- $4,000,000+ Settlement: A Puerto Rican mechanic and laboratory engineer received this amount after contracting mesothelioma, despite being initially declined by another specialized law firm. The cause was exposure to asbestos during his work in a sugar mill.
- $3,400,000+ Settlement: In a noteworthy case for a Navy boiler tender, who later became a boiler-room operator, a significant settlement was achieved despite the individual’s inability to personally testify regarding his asbestos exposure.
- $3,150,000+ Settlement: This payout was to a painter and taper whose mesothelioma diagnosis was linked to limited asbestos exposure in building materials used in his trade.
- $2,300,000+ Settlement: Awarded to a school custodian who developed mesothelioma, this settlement was notable because, despite his inability to identify the product manufacturers, the severe implications of past asbestos installation were recognized legally.
These settlements underscore the serious nature of asbestos-related conditions and the importance of holding responsible parties accountable in Pennsylvania.
Which Industries Used Asbestos in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has been home to several workplaces that used asbestos and contributed to workers’ illnesses.
Mining
While Pennsylvania is best known for coal mining, there have been several asbestos mines in the state. No longer mined today, asbestos occurs naturally in southeastern Pennsylvania.
Workers extracted large amounts of asbestos before the industry shut down. The area’s workers and residents risked developing deadly illnesses associated with asbestos exposure.
Crocidolite is one of the most dangerous types of asbestos; it was a major product of Pennsylvania asbestos mines.
Shipbuilding
Shipbuilding and shipping have long been important industries in Pennsylvania.
Several major shipyards still operate in the state on the Delaware Estuary and Lake Erie:
- Penn Shipbuilding
- Bethlehem Steel Shipyard
- Key Highway Shipyard
- The Philadelphia Naval Shipyard
- Sun Shipbuilding
Shipbuilders used asbestos from the 1930s through the 1970s in almost every component and material. Any ship or shipyard workers during those times, and even after, could have been exposed.
Military Bases
Military bases of all types also used asbestos. The Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, for instance, likely caused exposure in several seamen and other workers because of the heavy use of asbestos on navy ships.
Other bases and military facilities may have also caused exposure:
- Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg
- Tobyhanna Army Depot
- Carlisle Barracks
- Johnsonville Naval Air & Research Center
- Philadelphia Naval Shipyard
- Joint Reserve Base (JRB) at Willow Grove
- U.S Naval Damage Control Training Center
All of these military facilities operated during the period of peak use of asbestos materials. Many of the veterans stationed there faced the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.
Plants and Factories
Industrial factories like steel plants, manufacturing facilities, and power stations used asbestos materials. The mineral provided unparalleled heat and fire insulation.
Asbestos contamination has been documented at Alcoa Aluminum, Bethlehem Steel, Electralloy, Ling-Temco Vought (LTV), and U.S. Steel (USX).
BoRit Asbestos Dump
Keasbey and Mattison operated one of the world’s largest asbestos manufacturing plants in Ambler, Pennsylvania, from the early 1900s to the 1960s. Workers in this facility were at high risk for later asbestos illnesses.
The disposal site for the plant continues to be an issue in the area. The company used the BoRit Asbestos Site to dump asbestos waste. It is now a Superfund site with a 25-foot-high pile of asbestos waste that covers more than two acres.
The area was a park for many years after the company stopped dumping asbestos. The park was closed in the 1980s after concerns about asbestos exposure came to light.
The asbestos was not removed from the site but was capped to contain it. Until that happened, all nearby residents were at risk of exposure to airborne asbestos fibers.
Holmesburg Prison
Located in Philadelphia, Holmesburg Prison was a site of intentional asbestos exposure. University of Pennsylvania researchers conducted experiments on black prisoners using asbestos and putting them at risk of later illnesses.
The experiments involved other harmful materials and ran from the 1950s to the 1970s. Approximately 300 prisoners were affected. The city of Philadelphia officially apologized in 2022 for allowing the experiments to be conducted.
Other Sites of Asbestos Exposure in Pennsylvania
If you have mesothelioma, you might have been exposed to asbestos in one of the above locations or one of many other businesses in Pennsylvania that used asbestos:
- Allied Chemical, Philadelphia
- Alcoa, Pittsburgh
- A.P. Green Plant, Philadelphia
- Armco Steel, Pittsburgh
- Bethlehem Steel Mill, Bethlehem
- BP Oil Refinery, Trainer
- Bristol Steel Mill, Chester
- Carnegie Natural Gas Company, Pittsburgh
- General Electric Manufacturing Plant, Philadelphia
- Gulf Oil Refinery, Pittsburgh
- Hammermill Paper, Erie
- H.J. Heinz Manufacturing Plant, Pittsburgh
- J & L Steel, Pittsburgh
- Jessop Specialty Steel Mill, Washington
- Jones and Laughlin Steel Works, Pittsburgh
- LTV Steel, Pittsburgh and Aliquippa
- Mathis Shipyard, Philadelphia
- National Sugar Refinery, Philadelphia
- Peach Bottom Nuclear Power Plant, Erie
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Harrisburg
- Quaker State Metals, Lancaster
- Reading Iron Works, Reading
- Scott Paper Company, Philadelphia and Chester
- Sharon Steel Company, Sharon
- Standard Oil Company, Philadelphia
- Sun Oil, Chester, Hook, and Marcus
- Washington Steel Mill, Washington
What Are the Asbestos Laws in Pennsylvania?
State laws dictate how asbestos can be handled to keep people safe. They also direct the process for filing an asbestos lawsuit.
Asbestos Safety Regulations
The Pennsylvania state legislature responded to the dangers of asbestos and passed the Pennsylvania Asbestos Occupations Accreditation Act of 1990.
New rules gave the state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) responsibility for regulating the removal, collection, and disposal of ACMs from public and commercial buildings.
- The state’s Department of Labor and Industry enforces the law.
- It says that any person planning an asbestos reduction or abatement project must notify the department at least five days before beginning.
- Pennsylvania’s asbestos abatement rules also follow the federal guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They require any person planning to remove and dispose of asbestos in a public or commercial building to notify the agency in advance.
- The EPA guidelines also require that only certified, trained asbestos workers handle asbestos materials.
- Pennsylvania bans non-certified individuals from jobs involving asbestos, including workers, supervisors, project designers, inspectors, planners, and contractors.
The Impact of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Decision on Asbestos Litigation
A landmark 2020 ruling by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has reshaped the landscape of asbestos litigation in the state. This pivotal decision in the case of Roverano vs. John Crane, Inc. mandates that when someone is exposed to multiple asbestos sources, the financial burden of any legal judgment must be evenly distributed among all defendants.
Key Changes:
- Equal Liability Among Defendants:
- Previously, juries were tasked with determining the specific percentage of liability each defendant held in a case. This often proved to be a complex and time-consuming process.
- The new ruling simplifies this process by requiring all defendants to share the financial responsibility equally, regardless of varying degrees of involvement.
- Increased Fairness in Compensation:
- By distributing liability equally, the decision curtails strategies that some corporations might use to dodge full accountability. This ensures that plaintiffs have a better chance of receiving fair compensation.
- Streamlined Legal Process:
- With the shift away from percentage-based judgments, the litigation process becomes more straightforward and less taxing on jury members, who no longer need to navigate complicated apportionment calculations.
This significant legal shift underscores a move towards greater fairness and efficiency in asbestos-related cases, ensuring victims have a clearer path to justice.
The Pennsylvania Statute of Limitations on Asbestos Lawsuits
The 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 5501 et seq. is the personal injury statute of limitations for the state of Pennsylvania. It applies to mesothelioma cases.
When filing a mesothelioma or asbestos lawsuit, you must do so within two years of discovering the asbestos-related illness.
Asbestos-related wrongful death lawsuits follow the same statute. They must be filed within two years of the victim’s death.
Take-Home Duty for Secondhand Asbestos Exposure
Secondhand asbestos exposure occurs when someone inadvertently brings asbestos fibers into the home, exposing members of the household. These other people in the home don’t work around asbestos but sometimes develop mesothelioma decades later.
Pennsylvania does not bar lawsuits citing take-home duty. Take-home duty refers to the responsibility of a company to warn workers of the risks of secondhand exposure.
If you got sick because someone you lived with worked around asbestos, you can file a lawsuit to seek compensation in Pennsylvania.
The Fair Share Act
The Fair Share Act limits the liability of a defendant in asbestos cases. It states that a defendant is only liable for its proportionate share in the damages caused. If there are multiple defendants in an asbestos lawsuit, the court can assign percentages of liability to each one.
Where to Get Mesothelioma Treatment in Pennsylvania
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer. It requires expert care and treatment from specialists. A few cancer centers in Pennsylvania can provide specialist treatment:
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh
- Abramson Cancer Center, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple Health, Philadelphia
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Jefferson Health, Philadelphia
When my husband was diagnosed we had no idea what to do. Our doctor said we should reach out to an attorney to talk about compensation. After talking to several firms we found the mesothelioma lawyer center and were grateful we did. They helped with every step of the way. If you need a meso attorney then I would recommend contacting them
– Isabelle D.
Pennsylvania Asbestos Legal Assistance
Keep in mind that if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on the experienced asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area. For additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.
