Why Union Workers Need to Hire a Silicosis Lawyer in Engineered Stone Cases

Silicosis is one of the most commonly diagnosed occupational diseases in the United States, and those who work with engineered stone face some of the highest risks of silica dust exposure. While working in a union can offer various benefits when it comes to dealing with workplace health and safety, it’s important to know why union workers need to hire a silicosis lawyer in engineered stone cases and how a worker can recover compensation for this diagnosis.

The attorneys at Wallace & Graham have years of experience handling all types of toxic exposure cases for clients throughout several states, and we have successfully represented many workers who are exposed to silica dust from engineered stone. Unions can band together to pressure employers to improve working conditions and offer better compensation, but experienced legal counsel will be crucial for silicosis cases.

Why Union Workers Need to Hire a Silicosis Lawyer in Engineered Stone Cases

Every year in the United States, about 2.3 million workers are exposed to silica dust in the workplace. While the construction industry accounts for most of the at-risk workers, those who work with engineered stone to produce custom countertops and other products face some of the highest levels of silica dust exposure at work. Over time, this exposure can cause silicosis.

It can take a very long time for noticeable symptoms of silicosis to appear, but the disease can progress rapidly when a worker is repeatedly exposed to silica dust or exposed to high concentrations of silica dust. Many people who work with engineered stone face consistent exposure every day. While union participation can help to ensure safer work conditions, legal counsel will be essential if you are diagnosed with silicosis.

Why You Need to Hire a Silicosis Lawyer

A silicosis case requires proof of how, when, and where you were most likely exposed to silica dust. If you work with engineered stone, employers in this industry are required to abide by strict regulations. They usually must perform regular air quality testing, provide specific workplace safety equipment, and it is also possible for them to use new diagnostic tools that can more accurately identify silica dust contamination.

It’s possible that you were exposed to silica dust and developed silicosis through your current job, or you may have been exposed years ago while working for a different employer. You need to hire a silicosis lawyer because they can help you review all of the relevant documentation and records necessary to accurately determine the cause of your condition.

Your silicosis attorney can then assist you with building a strong toxic exposure lawsuit. If you can successfully establish liability for your condition, the defendant could be liable for your medical bills, lost wages, and the future income you are no longer able to earn. You may also qualify to claim pain and suffering compensation, and an employer could face further liability for punitive damages if they knowingly refused to follow applicable safety regulations.

A silicosis diagnosis can be life-changing. You may face difficult medical treatment as well as necessary lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. You may be unable to continue with your current job or unable to work at all. You need experienced legal counsel on your side to navigate your case successfully and maximize your compensation.

The team at Wallace & Graham has helped many workers in the engineered stone industry navigate the legal aftermath of silica dust exposure. If you have been diagnosed with silicosis, reach out to our firm as quickly as possible to learn more about the ways we can help with your case.

FAQs

Q: Does Engineered Stone Cause Silicosis?

A: Engineered stone can cause silicosis because it typically contains higher concentrations of silica than natural stone. When engineered stone is cut, ground, or sanded, it will release silica dust particles into the air, where they could be inhaled. Anyone who works with engineered stone needs to have proper respiratory protection to limit their risk of developing silicosis.

Q: Can Silicosis Be Cured?

A: No, silicosis is an incurable disease. Once it has been diagnosed, treatment usually focuses on symptom management and lifestyle changes to prevent the disease from progressing as much as possible. The pulmonary fibrosis caused by silicosis can leave the victim more susceptible to respiratory infections, develop lung cancer, and experience a variety of adverse symptoms.

Q: How Do You Prove Liability in Silicosis Cases?

A: Proving liability in silicosis cases requires proof of how you were exposed to silica dust. It can take a very long time for silicosis to develop, sometimes several decades, so you will likely need an experienced attorney’s help to gather the records you will need to review to determine the most likely cause of your condition. Once you have proven how you were exposed, your attorney can identify the party responsible for your damages.

Q: How Much Compensation Can You Claim for Silicosis?

A: The amount of compensation you can claim for silicosis depends on several factors. You may have grounds to seek compensation for all medical expenses related to your condition, lost wages, and lost earning capacity if you cannot return to work. You may also be able to recover pain and suffering compensation. Your attorney can help you understand what to expect from resolving your silicosis lawsuit.

Q: Why Do I Need to Hire a Silicosis Lawyer?

A: You need to hire a silicosis lawyer because these cases are inherently challenging in several ways. You could encounter various unexpected complications that you will not be able to resolve on your own. You have a better chance of success with your case and a greater chance of maximizing your total compensation with an experienced attorney handling your case.

Protecting Union Workers Diagnosed with Silicosis from Engineered Stone

The attorneys at Wallace & Graham have the skills and experience you need on your side if you have been diagnosed with silicosis because of engineered stone. If you are wondering why union workers need to hire a silicosis lawyer in engineered stone cases, contact our team today and schedule a free consultation to learn more about the legal services we provide and how we can assist with your recovery.