People who contract mesothelioma or asbestosis after prolonged direct or secondary exposure to toxic substances are entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering — if they can prove their cases in court.
In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, you have two years from the date you discovered your injury to file your claim for personal injury damages, with some exceptions for federal workers and other groups of people. Once this two-year period elapses, even the best asbestos litigation attorneys cannot help you obtain compensation for your injuries. Therefore, you must talk to an experienced lawyer as soon as you are diagnosed with a serious injury.
Selecting the right mesothelioma attorney is a time-consuming process. You should always ask the firm if its lawyers have experience working with cancer patients and asbestos bankruptcy trusts, and whether they can try a case to verdict. During your initial consultation, you should provide your attorney with copies of the following:
- Medical records — The date of diagnosis determines when your statute of limitations begins to run. In addition, your records illustrate the progression of your disease and your response to any treatments.
- Work history — Prolonged exposure to asbestos at work may be relevant to establishing which manufacturer is responsible for creating the product that caused your injuries and helping uncover the root cause of your injuries.
- Expenses — You are entitled to reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses such as doctor and hospital visits, medical tests, prescriptions, equipment and other alternative remedies.
The more detailed information you provide, the more a lawyer will be able to help you explore your litigation alternatives. Nass Cancelliere offers a free initial consultation to asbestos victims. If you want to know more, call us.