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New Mexico Mesothelioma Lawyer

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When people go to work, they typically expect that their employers will do what they can to ensure they are safe on the job. There are risks associated with most jobs, from accidents at construction sites and in factories, to smoke inhalation at a fire for firefighters, or even angry, out-of-control students for teachers. People working in any job are generally aware of the risks associated with them; 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.

People in construction, manufacturing, firefighting, and teachers are all potentially at risk of prolonged asbestos exposure. In addition, people who work as boilermakers, automobile mechanics, roofers and slaters, at power plants, oil refineries, iron workers, welders, drywall tapers, sheet metal workers are also at risk. U.S. Navy veterans, shipyard workers, and even hairdressers may also be at risk of asbestos exposure. People working in these industries and at these jobs are also at risk for developing mesothelioma.

What is the link between asbestos and mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year. The leading cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a fiber that occurs naturally and is utilized in a variety of products that are manufactured, as well as in various building materials and automotive parts. It is a popular component of products that are designed to withstand great heat or fire because it has heat resistant and fire retardant properties.

Asbestos fibers do not break down easily; they do not evaporate in the air or dissolve in water. When they are breathed in, such as during a construction project or while using products that have asbestos in them, the fibers are inhaled or ingested. When foreign substances enter the body, its response is to cough or swallow. While this will eliminate many of the asbestos fibers that have entered, long, thin asbestos fibers may get stuck in the body and enter the breathing tubes of the lungs. When this happens, the mesothelium (a protective coating around the organs in the body) may be penetrated and damaged.

When the mesothelium sustains damage from asbestos fibers, there is a risk of developing mesothelioma. The cells which comprise it may begin to develop abnormally. In such cases, the cells may begin to divide and spread. As the cancer progresses it may spread to other regions of the body.

Mesothelioma develops slowly. People may not show signs of its development until 30 or 50 years after having been exposed to asbestos.

Mesothelioma in New Mexico

There are many industries in New Mexico that people may have worked in that could have put them at risk for prolonged asbestos exposure. One particular industry in New Mexico that may expose people to asbestos, and possibly contribute to the development of mesothelioma, is the oil refining industry. Asbestos was used in a number of components used in refineries, including pipes, tanks, reactors, heat exchangers, boilers, roasters, ovens, driers, furnaces, and pumps.

What to do if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma

The government has established a number of regulations and laws concerning the use of asbestos in manufacturing and other industries. While its use in a number of industries has significantly declined, it is still used in a number of products. Companies and industries that use asbestos or that may expose people to asbestos are supposed to follow strict governmental guidelines to ensure safe handling and working conditions.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, and you have worked in an industry that may have exposed you to a lot of asbestos, it is recommended that you speak with a lawyer in New Mexico. The company you worked for may be held liable for your injuries if they did not follow regulations and protocol for asbestos safety.

A lawyer will review your case and determine whether or not you can make a claim. An attorney who is well-versed in New Mexico laws, particularly those governing personal injury claims, will guide you through the legal process. He or she will help you seek compensation for medical expenses associated with your cancer, as well as any mental anguish you may have experienced.