Massachusetts Mesothelioma Verdicts: Holding Corporations Accountable

🚨 Attention all mesothelioma victims and their families! 🚨

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you are not alone. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. In Massachusetts, many individuals have been exposed to this deadly substance while on the job or in their homes.

In recent years, there have been numerous mesothelioma lawsuits filed in Massachusetts, resulting in multi-million dollar verdicts against corporations who knowingly exposed workers and consumers to asbestos. These verdicts provide justice for victims and their families, as well as send a clear message to corporations that their actions will not go unpunished.

The Impacts of Asbestos Exposure in Massachusetts

Asbestos was widely used in the United States for much of the 20th century, particularly in the construction and manufacturing industries. However, it is now known that prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma and other serious health issues.

In Massachusetts, many individuals were exposed to asbestos while working in industries such as shipbuilding, construction, and automotive repair. Additionally, asbestos was often used in insulation materials in homes and public buildings, putting individuals at risk of exposure in their everyday lives.

According to the Environmental Working Group, there have been over 2,000 deaths from mesothelioma in Massachusetts since 1999.

Massachusetts Mesothelioma Verdicts: A Detailed Look

Over the years, there have been several major mesothelioma verdicts in Massachusetts. Here are some of the most notable cases:

Case Amount Awarded Year
DiPietro v. General Electric Co. $43.1 million 2019
Estate of Gerald Sylvestre v. New England Insulation Co. $7.55 million 2016
Ward v. Monsanto Co. $28.3 million 2015

In the DiPietro v. General Electric Co. case, a man who worked at a GE plant for 42 years was diagnosed with mesothelioma and ultimately passed away. The jury found GE responsible for the man’s exposure to asbestos and awarded $43.1 million in damages.

The estate of Gerald Sylvestre sued New England Insulation Co. after Sylvestre was diagnosed with mesothelioma following years of exposure to asbestos while working for the company. The jury awarded $7.55 million to Sylvestre’s estate.

In the Ward v. Monsanto Co. case, a man who worked at a company that produced rubber gloves was diagnosed with mesothelioma. The jury found that Monsanto Co., which supplied the asbestos used in the gloves, was responsible for the man’s illness and awarded $28.3 million in damages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

Symptoms of mesothelioma can include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

How long after exposure to asbestos does mesothelioma develop?

Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Who is at risk of developing mesothelioma?

Individuals who have been exposed to asbestos, particularly over a long period of time, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. This includes workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, as well as individuals who lived in homes with asbestos-containing materials.

What should I do if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek medical treatment immediately and speak with an experienced mesothelioma attorney.

How can a mesothelioma attorney help me?

An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you understand your legal options and work to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from your illness.

How much does it cost to hire a mesothelioma attorney?

Most mesothelioma attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they secure compensation for you. The amount of the contingency fee varies, but is typically around 33% of the total award.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Massachusetts?

The statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Massachusetts is three years from the date of diagnosis or death.

Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit on behalf of a deceased loved one?

Yes, you may be able to file a mesothelioma lawsuit on behalf of a deceased loved one. This is known as a wrongful death lawsuit.

What is the average settlement for a mesothelioma lawsuit?

There is no average settlement amount for mesothelioma lawsuits, as each case is unique. However, verdicts and settlements can range from tens of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars.

What types of damages can I recover in a mesothelioma lawsuit?

You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from your illness.

How long does it take to resolve a mesothelioma lawsuit?

The length of time it takes to resolve a mesothelioma lawsuit varies depending on the individual case. Some cases can be resolved in a matter of months, while others may take several years.

Can I still file a mesothelioma lawsuit if the company responsible for my exposure has gone out of business?

Yes, you may still be able to file a mesothelioma lawsuit even if the company responsible for your exposure has gone out of business. Your mesothelioma attorney can help you determine if there are other liable parties, such as product manufacturers or insurance companies.

Take Action Today

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to take action today. Contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney to discuss your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve.

Remember, corporations who put profits over the safety and well-being of their workers and consumers must be held accountable.

Closing Disclaimer

This article is not intended to provide legal advice. Each mesothelioma case is unique, and the information provided here should not be construed as a guarantee of any particular outcome in your case.