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Rhode Island Mesothelioma Lawyer

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Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium, the layer of flat cells that lines internal cavities of the body. Mesothelium layers act as protective sacs to the organs they surround, and also allow for their mobility. This cancer most commonly develops as a result of long-term exposure to asbestos, usually in an occupational capacity. Some even develop this form of cancer indirectly, through contact with someone who has worked with the harmful material, because asbestos fibers can cling to people's clothing and hair. Although rare, there are approximately 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma diagnosed in the United States annually. This type of cancer is more prominent in men than in women and more likely to appear at a later age.

Approximately 80 percent of mesothelioma cases are diagnosed in people with a history of prolonged exposure to asbestos or in people who have worked with asbestos. For this reason, it is considered one of many occupational diseases because it typically only develops in individuals who are exposed to asbestos fibers on a daily basis. Mesothelioma is also more prevalent in the lungs, but can also develop in the abdominal cavity as well. While 65 to 70 percent of mesothelioma cases occur in the lungs, only 20 to 30 percent develop in the abdominal cavity.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the U.S. has set limits for asbestos exposure and requires people working with the substance to wear protective gear to lower potential risks. While it is true that the risk of contracting mesothelioma increases with prolonged or heavy exposure to asbestos, people with brief exposures are also at risk. Industrial field workers who are most at risk include, insulation installers, brake repair workers, ship builders, factory workers, and contractors responsible for the remodeling of older structures. If you live in a house built before 1950, roofing materials, shingles, and insulation may contain traces of asbestos. Paint had also previously contained asbestos particles, until banned in 1977.

If you have contracted mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you should contact a Rhode Island attorney specializing in mesothelioma cases. It is important to seek compensation for your injuries, particularly if your employer deliberately withheld information that could have jeopardized your health. Gathering relevant documents is the first step to making a legal claim. This includes details about the location where you were exposed, and medical records indicating your initial diagnosis and follow-up treatments. It may also be necessary to contact other workers who can act as witnesses on your behalf. However, an attorney can help you with this process, ensuring you can make a feasible claim.

Rather than filing a separate claim, if other witnesses and victims are within reach, your attorney may advise you to file a class action lawsuit. Mesothelioma class action lawsuits involve a group of people, rather than a single individual. This method increases one's chances of winning a case because of the power in numbers. Other individuals who have developed this cancer act, not only as witnesses, but as evidence to your claim. This type of lawsuit can also provide you with support from others who have all suffered from the irreversible consequences of mesothelioma.

An attorney who specializes in mesothelioma litigation will provide an initial consultation free of charge, and will usually offer their services on a contingency basis, meaning that you will not pay any fees upfront. Once you have reached a settlement or received a favorable judgment in your case, then the attorney will recoup his or her fees.