The Danger of Asbestos

The danger of asbestos was identified by the medical community in the 1920s and is the result of asbestos fibers becoming airborne, inhaled, and lodged in the lungs, even penetrating tissues. Unfortunately, many of those exposed to asbestos have developed a deadly condition called Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer that is caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos. It affects the thin, protective membrane surrounding the lungs, heart and abdominal cavity. An estimated 3,000 cases annually are diagnosed in the United States. The average age at the time of diagnosis is between 65 and 72 years old.

While asbestos is not yet banned in the US, it is regulated as a result of the Clean Air Act of 1970 with many uses forbidden under the TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act). However, its use over time has significantly declined. In 2010, the use of asbestos to line automotive brakes was effectively banned beginning in 2014.

Asbestos Lawsuits

Lawsuits were first filed in the 1970s on behalf of those exposed to asbestos and afflicted with mesothelioma. Litigation continues today. These are complex cases with a certain burden of proof to establish not only the extent of the disease but also the causal link. Because the disease can be latent for as many as 20-50 years (present but without recognizable symptoms), this can involve extensive investigation to document the originating source. Sadly, due to this extremely long latency period, mesothelioma is often fatal within a year of diagnosis. Many cases are classified as Wrongful Death suits filed by the family on behalf of the decedent.

While every case is unique, the average trial award for an asbestos and mesothelioma case is $2.4 million. The highly respected Mealey’s Litigation Report published in 2016 estimates the average settlement amount to be between $1 million to $1.4 million, although all settlements are confidential.

Federal Asbestos Claims

Federal asbestos trust money has been set aside to compensate workers who have been exposed to asbestos. If you or a family member worked in any of the following industries or occupations, you may be entitled to compensation. This is not at all an inclusive list, as there are workers across many different jobs and industries that may have been exposed to asbestos.

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The Ruth law team has handled two car accident cases for me and have unbelievable admiration for Attorney Eric and paralegal Nicole ( who handled my case), who understood the frustration I was experiencing. They pushed and worked very hard to spend up the stressful process. The Ruth law team work their butts off to make sure their clients are happy.

 
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Accident in Clearwater; lives out of the country

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Our Dangerous Products Case Results

$19,500,000

Tobacco Trial Verdict

Our firm, along with co-counsel, earned a $19.5 million total verdict in Pasco County against a big tobacco company on behalf of a family who lost a wonderful husband and father to smoking-related illness.
$250,000

Verdict For Lung Injuries After Vehicle Fire

Settlement for victim who sustained significant lung injuries when her car caught fire. Our investigation revealed a known defect in the electrical system. The case was against the vehicle manufacturer.
$300,000

Unauthorized Enemas Leading to Lifelong Damage

Settlement for victim given multiple unauthorized enemas within several hours causing a perforated bowel. This resulted in our client having to have a colostomy for the remainder of her life.
$5,800,000

Tobacco Trial Verdict

A jury issued a verdict of $5.4 million in compensatory damages and $400,000 in punitive damages against two tobacco companies. Our client lost his wife to smoking-related illness and addiction.
$1,000,000

Child Suffers Brain Damage

Settlement for a child who suffered severe oxygen deprivation and brain damage when the nurses failed to monitor her tube feeding, leading to the child aspirating her feeding. A nurse also had removed the oxygen monitor so it did not sound an alarm.
$262,500

Victim Suffers Infection After Hip Replacement

Settlement obtained for victim admitted to the hospital following infection in recently replaced hip. While in the hospital he was not appropriately turned and re-positioned and he developed a large bedsore on his back which… read more?

NOTE: Client may not obtain the same or similar results.

What Happens Next?

At The Ruth Law Team, we understand that this may be your first time seeking legal counsel and how intimidating that decision might be. This is why we have simplified the process to help you make the right decision for your circumstances. This 3-step process includes:

Complete Our Case Evaluation Form

This quick survey will help us better understand what happened and which attorney is the best fit for your situation.

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The best way for you to have a clear idea your options is to speak with an attorney who specializes in your area of need.

Submit Your
Claim

Once you decide that The Ruth Law Team is the right option to represent you, we will begin the process of submitting your claim.

Contact Our Asbestos and Mesothelioma Attorneys

Have you or a loved one work with or around products containing asbestos for at least five years prior to 1982?  Our asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys may be able to investigate and pursue your potential claim.

If you or a loved one has been affected by asbestos and mesothelioma, contact The Ruth Law Team at (888) 783-8378 to speak with an attorney who can help.

Lawyers You Can Trust

About The Ruth Law Team

For over 40 years, The Ruth Law Team has been helping those who were injured due to an accident, defective product, nursing home abuse, and more. If you or someone you love was wrongfully hurt, The Ruth Law Team will guide and support you through the legal process.

Our team of passionate and experienced personal injury attorneys will fight for what you deserve. If you would like to speak with one of our attorneys and have your case evaluated, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at (888) 783-8378. Our lines are open 24/7.

The Ruth Law Team Attorneys
10 Best Attorneys of 20202016 Top 100 Lawyer ASLAFemale Personal Injury AdvocatesAmerican Association for JusticeBest Attorneys of America Lifetime Charter MemberTop 10 Best of the Best Attorneys of 2019
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Top 100 National Trial LawyersSuperLawyers 2020SuperLawyers Steven C. RuthTop 1% Distinguished Justice Advocates