Dallas and Houston Mesothelioma Lawyer

Mesothelioma and the Military

While military veterans are at a particularly high risk for mesothelioma, the Federal government does not permit veteran victims of the disease to sue for compensation. Instead, these 30% of all mesothelioma sufferers must file for disability benefits from the V.A. department. Unfortunately, even though practically all mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos, the V.A. has been known to deny mesothelioma claims where the victim has failed to show a link between their cancer and asbestos exposure during service. For this reason, we highly advise you speak with an expert mesothelioma attorney before you file your claim with the V.A.

Sailors who served in the armed forces between the 1930’s and 1970’s are at the highest risk for asbestos exposure, as they often served on poorly-ventilated ships with high-levels of asbestos contamination. Virtually no part of a naval ship built between the 1930’s and 1970’s is free from asbestos. Shipyard workers, particularly those who helped assemble or repair boats are also at high risk. Because asbestos has such a high resistance to fire, it was used in all parts of the ships, including pipe-fittings, gaskets, cables, cement, joint compound and boiler insulation and more. Asbestos was commonly found in navigation rooms, engine rooms, sleeping quarters, and mess halls.

Most veterans who have contracted mesothelioma served in the Navy between World War II and the Vietnam War and spent a lot of time on warships or submarines. The government started phasing out the use of asbestos in the late seventies; however, even modern-day soldiers are at risk for the disease, particularly if they work on ship repairs or renovations.

Even worse, spouses and children of many sailors and shipyard workers have contracted mesothelioma from asbestos fibers brought home on military uniforms. The person responsible for laundry in these homes is at a particularly high risk. In these situations, the victim was never even enlisted in the military, but still suffered from the military’s exposure to asbestos.

The fact that you cannot sue the government for your asbestos exposure does limit your legal options, but a good mesothelioma lawyer can ensure these options are not exhausted. Many military veterans have successfully sued the company that manufactured and sold the asbestos to the government. Additionally, if you were exposed to asbestos at any other point in your working life, a mesothelioma attorney may help you may sue that company as well.

If you are one of the many veterans suffering from mesothelioma due to your military service, contact Crain-Lewis, LLP. We are highly experienced and knowledgeable in the intricacies of mesothelioma law. Call today to speak with a top mesothelioma lawyer in the nation.

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Crain Lewis, LLP
3400 Carlisle Street, Suite 300
Dallas, TX 75204
877-339-2889