Navy veterans with asbestos illnesses: Know your legal options

If you or a loved one served in the U.S. Navy, worked in shipbuilding or were employed as a longshoreman, you should understand the risks of asbestos exposure. The men and women who worked in these capacities often came into contact with the toxic material and this exposure could have devastating consequences.

Asbestos exposure is not a threat unique to military veterans, but it did affect many people in the Navy because of how heavily it was used in shipbuilding materials and how much time people spend living and working on those vessels. Any person who is concerned about potential exposure in the U.S. Navy should seek medical help and then discuss the legal options with an attorney.

Military veterans and their families may know that they can often pursue and qualify government benefits in the event that they get injured or sick while they are on active duty. However, when asbestos is involved and the illness is one related to exposure, there may be more options available to victims affected by the toxic fiber.

For example, there may be compensation available through third-party lawsuits against product manufacturers and others who knew the risks of asbestos but failed to properly notify people who would be exposed. In cases involving civilians who worked on building or repairing military ships, there may be grounds for a workers’ compensation claim as well.

Legal support can be crucial when it comes to taking action to pursue compensation for asbestos-related illnesses, no matter what the source may be. Medical bills and other costs related to a serious illness like mesothelioma can be extraordinary, and money can be a critical resource during such a difficult time.

The attorneys at The Law Offices of Wallace & Graham understand the unique and often frustrating aspects of asbestos litigation, and we can help you understand what options you have when it comes to pursuing compensation. Whether you are a veteran or the family member of a veteran and have been affected by asbestos, we urge you to visit our website to learn more about our firm and our experience with and approach to asbestos claims.