Before the 1980s Asbestos was one of the most widely used industrial materials. Its applications ranged from construction to production, and far beyond.
But, with our increasing knowledge, we have come to a point where it has been declared carcinogenic.
Mesothelioma is one of the several types of cancers that affect the lining between the lungs and the abdomen. And, it is caused by ingestion or consumption of Asbestos.
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, then you must know that you are entitled to file a claim against the party responsible for your suffering.
But, did you know that there are several types of claims?
Well, keep reading to know more.
Types of Mesothelioma Claims
Before filing a mesothelioma claim, you might wish to know if you’re filing the right type of claim. For there are several types of claims when it comes to asbestos-related diseases.
To broadly classify, mesothelioma claims can be divided into three categories.
1. Legal Claims or Personal Injury Lawsuits
The first one is a legal claim, or more commonly known as a personal injury lawsuit.
After asbestos exposure, if you find out that someone negligently or intentionally exposed you to asbestos, you can sue them in a court of law. As the experts at https://www.frostlawfirm.com/ explain, legal claims are usually filed against asbestos manufacturing companies. However, the claim against the manufacturing company is only valid if the company is still operational.
2. Veterans Affairs Claims or Trust Fund Claims
In case, the asbestos manufacturing company is no more operational, your claim would then be automatically forwarded to a trust.
It is noteworthy that the bankrupt asbestos manufacturing companies have found trusts all over the country. In addition to this, the Department of Veteran Affairs also offers several benefits to retired servicemen who have been exposed to asbestos while on duty.
3. Social Security Disability Claims or Wrongful Death Claims
In any other case, where you have been exposed to asbestos, naturally and not due to somebody else’s negligence, you can seek a social security disability claim.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral and is found in plenty of regions. It is quite possible to be exposed to it, without anyone knowing about it. And in some cases, this might also lead to wrongful deaths. Thus, the claims are then processed as compensatory claims and offered either to the relatives or the immediate successor of the victim.
How to File a Mesothelioma Claim?
Knowing which type of mesothelioma claim you should file, sorts out most of your problems. But, there’s still one more thing you need to familiarize yourself with- the process.
Usually, the process of filing a mesothelioma claim involves proving the injury or disability. Following this, you might also need to establish the connection between your condition and asbestos exposure. And, most likely you’d also need to prove fault if your exposure is someone else’s doing.
In most cases, claiming for mesothelioma is not as difficult, since there are funds and trusts in place, just for the victims of asbestos exposure. However, it is still wiser to have a legal attorney who can help you with the case, and receive the benefits or the compensation you need.