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Idaho Mesothelioma Lawyer

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People typically expect when they go to work that their employers will take every measure they can to ensure that they are safe. With most jobs, there are some risks associated with them, from accidents at construction sites and in factories, to smoke inhalation at a fire for firefighters, electrocution for electricians, or even angry, out of control students for teachers. Generally, people are aware of the risks associated with their jobs; however, there are some risks that they may be unaware of until it is too late. One of those risks is the potential of being exposed to asbestos, and in turn, the possibility of developing mesothelioma.

What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the protective lining and sac around organs in the body. It is a relatively rare cancer, diagnosed in approximately 2,000 to 3,000 patients each year in the United States, and even more people worldwide.

What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a fiber is naturally occurring and has been used in various in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including building products and automotive parts, as well in furnace, boilers, in trains, and even hairdryers. Asbestos has been a popular material to use because it is resistant to heat and is fire-retardant, which is particularly beneficial in products that may be used in extremely hot settings or where fire is possible.

How can asbestos cause cancer?
The fibers of asbestos do not break down easily. They do not evaporate in the air or dissolve in water. When people work around products that have asbestos in them, and dust is created, they breathe in or ingest the asbestos. The body will try to rid itself of the asbestos, causing a person to cough or swallow. By coughing, some asbestos fibers will be eliminated. However, there are long, thin fibers that are more challenging for the body to expire. These fibers may become stuck in the lungs and end up penetrating the walls of the lungs and the chest area. When this happens, the mesothelium may be damaged, which can lead to the development of mesothelioma.

When the cells of the mesothelium are damaged they may develop abnormally and divide rapidly and out of control. This can in turn lead to mesothelioma.

Who is at risk for long-term asbestos exposure, and potentially, mesothelioma?

There are number of occupations and jobs that put people at risk for heavy exposure to asbestos or long-term asbestos exposure. These include, but are not limited to:
oil refineries
hairdressers
teachers
boilermakers
electricians
freight and material haulers
construction workers
iron workers
metal lathers
machinists
roofers
slaters
power plant workers
painters
pipe fitters
shipyard workers
U.S. Navy veterans
welders
teachers
automobile mechanics

In addition, people who live with individuals who have been exposed to asbestos may also be at risk of exposure. This happens when the asbestos dust comes into the home on clothes, shoes, or other items, and it is breathed in. People who smoke and have been exposed to asbestos may also be at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not appear in patients until 30 to 50 years after they have been exposed to asbestos.

What happens if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?
There are federal regulations in place governing the use of asbestos in industry and manufacturing. In addition, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations regarding safety procedures for asbestos handling. Companies are required to comply with these regulations; however, they do not always do so. In addition, it is still possible, even if they are in compliance, for workers to be exposed to asbestos.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and have experienced long-term or heavy exposure to asbestos, it is highly recommended that you speak with an attorney in Idaho. An attorney will guide you through the legal process, assess your case, and determine whether or not you can make a claim. Companies may be liable to pay compensation as a result of product liability, workers' compensation, premises liability, and economic property loss.

Asbestos litigation can be challenging and arduous, as there are many factors that may need to be proved, it can be costly, it can be difficult to determine who is liable, and much of the proof may be scientific in nature. An Idaho lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases will be familiar with the proceedings and will be able to guide you through the process, helping you to potentially receive compensation for medical expenses and the anguish you have endured.