Asbestos, also known as the silent killer, is a naturally occurring fibre. It was predominately used in the first half of the 20th century in a multitude of different settings. It was extremely versatile and was known for its heat and fireproof abilities.
However, it quickly became a ticking time bomb which has left many people devastated by the health implications of being exposed to it. If you have been exposed to asbestos and have been diagnosed with a medical condition as a result then you should contact us as soon as possible.
No Win No Fee Personal Injury Claims
We offer a free consultation with one of our friendly solicitors to get the ball rolling. After you’ve told us what happened, we’ll provide you with expert legal advice at no cost to you.
Asbestos was commonly used was for heat and fireproofing in buildings, pipes, boilers etc. It was therefore heavily used in factories, power stations and ship building to name a few. However, it was also used in a lot of public buildings such as schools, libraries, homes and garages. It is therefore probable that a significant number of people have come into contact with asbestos during the course of their life.
Fortunately, asbestos only becomes dangerous if it is moved or disturbed. It is the inhaling of fibres that leads people to develop asbestos related conditions. Therefore, if undisturbed the risks are very small.
There are 3 types of asbestos, most commonly referred to by their colours, white, blue and brown. The latter two being the most dangerous as the fibres are different to white meaning that they react differently in the body. Additionally, much less exposure to brown and blue asbestos is needed to cause health problems than exposure to white asbestos.
There are a number of health conditions associated to asbestos exposure such as pleural plaques, pleural thickening, asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Pleural plaques are not considered to be disabling and do not cause any breathing issues. Compensation cannot be claimed for this.
However, compensation can be claimed for the other conditions. It is worth bearing in mind that other factors can contribute to the development of pleural thickening, asbestosis (which can be confused with lung fibrosis) and lung cancer. The other causes or contributors to the conditions can range from the use of medication, through to lifestyle factors such as smoking. In some cases, the development of the conditions can be idiopathic, which basically means there is an unknown cause.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is only caused by asbestos exposure and is untreatable. Although the use of radiotherapy palliatively can increase the life expectancy a little. Mesothelioma is a very cruel condition that takes hold quickly and becomes life limiting in a very short period.
Asbestos exposure is not just limited to the employees who worked with or alongside the production/use of it. In recent years a significant number of women have developed asbestos related conditions. Many cases involve partners who washed the clothes of their loved ones after shifts working with asbestos. When shaking the clothes out prior to washing the asbestos fibres were released into the air and then inhaled.
We understand that a diagnosis of an asbestos related condition can be devastating, but we are here to help. By claiming compensation this can release any financial pressure by ensuring that money is available for any aids and appliances that you need, but also to ensure that your loved ones are taken care of further down the line.
Given the nature of the different lung conditions and the fact that the exposure was likely to be 30 plus years ago, then the sooner a legal expert is instructed the better as it provides as much time as possible for the matter to be investigated and all relevant evidence to be obtained.
Accidents at Work
We can help you claim compensation for your injuries and any associated financial losses. These losses can include loss of earnings, medical costs and help received from friends and family. Whatever losses you have suffered, we will be able to advise you.
There are many ways in which you can be injured at work, such as in factory and warehouse accidents, construction accidents, or accidents caused by defective equipment or insufficient training. There are many other examples so for expert advice get in touch.
No Win No Fee Personal Injury Claims
We want to make your claim process a smooth one. That’s why we offer a free consultation with one of our friendly solicitors to get the ball rolling. After you’ve told us what happened, we’ll provide you with expert legal advice at no cost to you. We also operate a No Win, No Fee policy here at Taylor Emmet.
What can I claim?
The value of your claim will depend on a number of factors including:
- The nature of the injury or illness
- Whether your child (or you) recover fully from the injury or illness or if it has a long term effect on their health and well being
- The amount of any losses you incur as a result of the injury
You can claim compensation for the following things if they are a result of your injury:
- Pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- Loss of earnings
- Medical and nursing care costs
- Special equipment needed to carry out daily activities and any costs involved in adapting your home
- Other expenses incurred as a result of your injury, for example, travel expenses incurred whilst receiving medical treatment.
More Information
Making working life better for everyone in Britain – ACAS.org.uk
Mental Health Services – NHS.co.uk
