Being diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestos is or pleural thickening can be hard, especially given that the outlook is rarely positive and that, in many instances, the overall survival is less than twelve months in the cases of the malignant diseases. Being told you have any form of cancer or life limiting disease is hard enough, however when you learn that the cause is asbestos exposure, often caused through the negligence of a current or former employer, the news is even harder to take in.
Asbestos was widely used in construction in the UK up until the year 2000 and, as such, the majority of buildings built before this time still contain this deadly material. When left alone, there are no dangers of asbestos, however when disturbed, it releases deadly fibres which, when breathed in, can cause lasting damage. The continued exposure to asbestos fibres (although it is not known quite how much exposure would be needed before the risks of contracting a disease start) causes scarring of the lungs and, over time, often leads to the diseases outlined above.
Whilst unfortunately, nothing can be done to change the fact that an employer has acted negligently and, as a result, a disease has been contracted, in most instances it may be possible to make a compensation claim. It is, however, advisable that, upon making the decision to pursue a claim to at least attempt to bring about some justice and receive a lump sum to support yourself and your family through your treatment, you deal with a specialist asbestos-related disease solicitor such as Asbestos Advice Helpline. By using the services of a specialist solicitor, you can be sure that they have the experience to handle your specific case and that you stand a far better chance of getting a great result.
Of course, a few things to bear in mind are that a claim must be started within three years of a diagnosis, however it is possible for family members to pursue even if the patient has, unfortunately, passed away. So long as it can be proven that the disease was caused due to asbestos exposure in the workplace and that the employer acted negligently, there are sufficient grounds for a claim, even if the company is no longer trading.
Whilst making a claim and receiving compensation doesn’t change things, it can make life financially a little easier in this undoubtedly difficult time and at least go someway to helping you through your treatment and your family in the future.