Kansas City mesothelioma lawyer Jeffrey Carey has been litigating asbestos induced mesothelioma claims for 25 years.
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. It most commonly affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) but can also involve the abdomen (peritoneum), the heart (pericardium), and the lining of other vital organs. Asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals, was widely used in various industries due to its heat resistance and durability. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic fibers can become airborne and, if inhaled or ingested, may lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma. Symptoms of mesothelioma often include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, typically appearing decades after exposure.
Source credit: CDC
In the United States, litigation related to asbestos exposure and mesothelioma has been significant, with numerous cases resulting in substantial verdicts and settlements. These legal actions often involve individuals who developed mesothelioma after occupational exposure or through the use of consumer products containing asbestos. Other common methods of exposure are home repair, automotive work on older car models (or on newer models decades ago), and being in the household of someone that worked in construction or with asbestos.
Several noteworthy legal cases have recently been decided:
March 21, 2024 – $23 Million Verdict Upheld in New York: A New York appeals court upheld a $23 million jury award to an individual who developed mesothelioma, affirming the significant compensation for asbestos-related illness.
October 2024 – $3.8 Million Verdict in Pennsylvania: A Pennsylvania jury found Foster Wheeler Corporation liable for failing to protect employees from asbestos exposure, awarding the plaintiff $3.8 million in a mesothelioma lawsuit.
August 15, 2024 – $63.4 Million Verdict in South Carolina: In a landmark case, a South Carolina jury awarded $63.4 million to Michael Perry, who developed mesothelioma after using talc-based products allegedly contaminated with asbestos. The case highlighted the risks associated with consumer products and the responsibility of manufacturers.
October 15, 2024 – $15 Million Verdict in Connecticut: A Connecticut jury ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $15 million to a man who claimed he developed mesothelioma after decades of using the company’s talc products. The jury also recommended additional punitive damages, underscoring the ongoing legal challenges faced by manufacturers of talc-based products.
These cases reflect the ongoing legal battles surrounding asbestos exposure and mesothelioma in the United States. They underscore the importance of corporate responsibility and the legal system’s role in providing justice for affected individuals. As awareness of the dangers of asbestos continues to grow, it is anticipated that litigation and regulatory actions will persist in addressing past exposures and preventing future harm.
We have been honored to tell the stories of many families who have suffered due to the actions of companies utilizing asbestos in their products or supplying asbestos. We always hold the dignity and memory of the victims of asbestos exposure at our guiding principle.
If you or a loved one believe you have been harmed by asbestos exposure, we would be happy to talk to you about your case. Please call 816-246-9445.