Answers To Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos-Related Diseases And Mesothelioma
At Savinis, Kane, & Gallucci, L.L.C., in Pennsylvania, we have represented numerous individuals and families that have suffered from mesothelioma and other serious health conditions caused by asbestos exposure. We want to help you, too. We encourage you to call our Pittsburgh office at 412-567-4931 for a free consultation. You can also review some of the frequently asked questions and answers below:
I was diagnosed with mesothelioma. Do I deserve compensation?
You may deserve compensation. It depends on when and where you were exposed to asbestos and who was responsible for that exposure. Our lawyers can conduct a detailed investigation into your particular circumstances and advise you accordingly. Learn more about compensation for mesothelioma.
What causes mesothelioma?
Each year, thousands of people are diagnosed with this form of cancer. To date, the only known cause is exposure to asbestos fibers. If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma, you can be confident that you encountered asbestos at some point in time — probably decades ago. Learn more about how asbestos causes cancer.
Are there different types of mesothelioma?
Yes, mesothelioma is cancer of the mesothelium, which is the membrane that protects an array of internal organs. Therefore, mesothelioma may be pleural (affecting the lungs), peritoneal (affecting the abdomen), pericardial (affecting the heart) or testicular (affecting the testes). Learn more about the different forms of mesothelioma.
Who is at the greatest risk for asbestos exposure?
Individuals in many different industries may potentially be exposed to asbestos. However, it is most frequently found in shipyards, steel mills, power stations, aluminum plants, chemical plants, oil refineries and similar industrial settings. Learn more about the occupations with the highest risk of exposure.
I was only exposed to asbestos once, and it was decades ago. Is it possible that my current cancer is related?
Yes, it is possible. Many people think that because so much time has elapsed between their exposure to asbestos and their cancer that the two can’t possibly be related. The opposite is actually true. Mesothelioma in particular tends to show up between 20 and 50 years after the initial exposure. This means that if you were working with asbestos in the 1960s, ’70s, ’80s or ’90s, now is the time when you may begin to notice symptoms of disease. Learn more about the causes of mesothelioma.
I never worked with asbestos, but my father did. It is possible that I was exposed to the substance through him?
Yes, it’s possible that you may have encountered asbestos fibers that your father tracked home on his clothes or shoes. A significant number of people have developed mesothelioma in this indirect way. Learn more about secondhand exposure.
What’s the difference between asbestos-related cancer and asbestosis?
Asbestosis is not a form of cancer. It is actually a respiratory disorder. When the asbestos fibers enter the lungs, they can cause severe inflammation and scarring, making it difficult for a person to breathe. Learn more about asbestosis claims.
How long do I have to file a claim?
The statute of limitations gives you only two years to file a claim. In other words, if you are diagnosed in 2017, you must file a claim by 2019 in order to obtain compensation for your injuries and losses. Likewise, if you lost a loved one, you have only two years from his or her date of death to file a wrongful death claim. This means that it’s wise to contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and interests. Learn more about the timeline and statute of limitations.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that we get paid only if we successfully recover compensation for you. Then, our fee is deducted from the total amount you receive. The bottom line is that you don’t have to front any money in order for us to represent you. It’s a win-win situation.
Do you have other questions? Call us at 412-567-4931 or complete our contact form. We are here to help.