Just as many employees in civilian industries came into contact with asbestos during their working years, many U.S. servicemen also had military careers that exposed them to asbestos. In fact, military veterans account for 30% of those with asbestos-caused malignant mesothelioma. Because of its insulating properties and durability, asbestos was used in over 3,000 products found in buildings, steam boilers, and navy ships. Therefore servicemen such as military construction personnel and sailors had the highest likelihood for exposure.
The high incidence of mesothelioma cases in past years has led to many lawsuits against employers and manufacturers for exposing workers to asbestos in the workplace even after the health dangers had become known. Payments made to victims have helped to offset medical expenses, lost income and support to the victim’s family, and pain and suffering.
But while civilian mesothelioma victims can in some cases sue their former employers over the harmful working conditions that led to their asbestos exposure, U.S. servicemen are prevented by law from suing the military services. What recourse does the veteran have, then?
First of all, veterans can sue the manufacturers of the asbestos products they were exposed to. But identifying those products and proving exposure may be very difficult. Some law firms specializing in asbestos-related lawsuits have done extensive research, however, to identify exactly what companies supplied what asbestos-containing products found in most of the Navy’s ships. Therefore if you’re a Navy veteran whose asbestos exposure was aboard ship, responsibility for your disease can be traced back to a particular manufacturer or manufacturers.
Second, past lawsuits have resulted in multi-million dollar funds created to pay the claims of mesothelioma victims. For those who qualify, no lawsuit is required to obtain just compensation for asbestos exposure. Any attorney who specializes in mesothelioma cases can guide you through the claim process.
Third, veterans with mesothelioma whose asbestos exposure occurred during military service qualify for VA disability compensation. It’s not a fantastic sum, but it is a monthly income part of which the spouse can continue to receive after the veteran’s death. Because qualifying for VA disability can be a red-tape nightmare, several non-profit organizations offer professional assistance. Visit the Disabled American Veterans web site or see the VA’s list of recognized organizations for representing veterans’ claims.
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