Fighting back against asbestos violations

When people learn that they or a loved one has been diagnosed with a disease caused by asbestos exposure, there are a number of difficult emotions that people experience. Many people are mad, afraid, shocked, sad and confused about what caused their illness and what the future looks like. It is, undoubtedly, an extremely upsetting situation in which too many victims and family members find themselves.

People can also feel overwhelmed and helpless when they learn that the cause of their illness is likely something that happened decades ago. An old job or home they lived in could have been the source of exposure to the toxic fiber, but many people feel as though it is too late to do anything about the negligence that contributed to their exposure. However, victims and their families should remember that there are legal options in place for people in this situation.

For example, one family has filed a lawsuit against Chevron U.S.A. Inc. for alleged gross negligence that contributed to a man’s mesothelioma diagnosis and eventual death. His wife and children filed the lawsuit and are requesting substantial punitive damages in order to punish the company for the man’s death.

According to reports, the man was working for the company when he was exposed to hazardous levels of asbestos, which eventually led to his diagnosis of mesothelioma.

People may be hesitant to file a lawsuit because they think it is frivolous, ineffective or too time-consuming. However, victims should remember that they have the right to hold a negligent party accountable for the damages that a person has suffered as a result of the party’s carelessness and disregard for the health of others. Legal action is about more than compensation; it is also about holding people responsible for their actions and shedding light on a dangerous and ongoing issue.

Source: The Southeast Texas Record, “Family sues Chevron in mesothelioma case,” Melody Dareing, May 8, 2014