September 26th marks Mesothelioma Awareness Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about mesothelioma. It also encourages fundraising and showing support for those battling the rare cancer.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer caused, in the vast majority of cases, by exposure to asbestos dust and fibres.
Many people are unaware of what mesothelioma is, who may be affected and what causes it. However, mesothelioma has impacted many families, communities and workers in certain occupations which are considered to be high risk.
This is largely due to the prevalence of asbestos. Being exposed to asbestos can cause mesothelioma cancer.
Can I claim if I have been exposed to asbestos?
The answer is potentially yes. Compensation for a personal injury claim following exposure to asbestos is often available to individuals who have gone on to develop and be diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease that is causing a disability.
These diseases include:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Asbestos-related diffuse pleural thickening
- Asbestos-related lung cancer
To be able to have a claim you need to know where and how you were exposed to asbestos.
The main things to have in mind when making a claim for mesothelioma or any asbestos related diseases are:
- You can claim if you were indirectly exposed, such as if your spouse worked with asbestos
- You can claim for asbestos-related diseases years after you were exposed
- You usually have 3 years from your diagnosis to make a claim
- You should keep medical records as evidence
- You can claim on a no win, no fee basis
Mesothelioma and asbestosis along with other diseases develop over a period of time but once symptoms appear, they cannot be cured. Despite the fact that treatment has increased the life expectancy of all asbestos-related diseases, the disease is still progressive and incurable and frequently the obligation of making the claim is taken on by family members.
How much compensation will I get for mesothelioma in the UK?
When assessing a claim for mesothelioma we take into account a number of factors when calculating your claim, however the compensation received can vary. We will look at how the illness has affected your life including any loss of income and care costs. You may also be able to make a claim for 'dependency' if a loved one (someone you were financially dependent on) has passed away from mesothelioma.
The relevant bracket from the Judicial College Guidelines, which judges, solicitors and insurers use to calculate and determine settlement amounts, is as follows:
- £77,680 to £139,680 for mesothelioma
Guidelines for other asbestos-related diseased may be lower. Each and every asbestos compensation claim is unique, and therefore the figures are only there for guidance.
How long does a mesothelioma claim take?
It is difficult to give an estimate for how long asbestos-related disease claims will take, as every case has different circumstances. This is because mesothelioma is such a serious disease and some cases take longer than others if complications arises. Your solicitor will advise you if there are any unusual circumstances which could prolong your claim.
Our personal injury solicitors recognise that many people may be anxious about what is involved in bringing a claim for compensation. Our highly specialised, experienced, and dedicated team of personal injury solicitors are focused on making the process as simple and easy to understand as possible.
We are able to accept cases under a ‘no win no fee’ funding arrangement and you can contact us for an initial conversation with no upfront cost or obligation. Call our new business advisors on 0161 696 6235 or complete our enquiry form.
By Millie Wilde, personal injury team
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