Mesothelioma is a devastating diagnosis for the patient as well as his or her family. At Bailey & Glasser, LLP, our attorneys know how difficult it is to receive this medical news. We understand how drastically your life will change. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, our attorneys can provide legal advice, information about asbestos exposure, and high-quality representation. Contact us today for a free case consultation.
Why Choose Bailey & Glasser, LLP?
- Our law firm has gone up against powerful adversaries and can handle even the most complex or challenging mesothelioma claim. We use a trial-focused approach to litigation.
- We have a proven history of securing settlements and verdicts for mesothelioma and asbestos-exposure clients. Our attorneys pursue optimal results using aggressive legal strategies. Our attorneys have handled over 3000 cases and recovered over $2 billion in settlements and verdicts for asbestos-related cases.
- Your lawyer will protect your rights and best interests every step of the way. We are passionate advocates for mesothelioma victims in Oklahoma and throughout the country.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that originates in the mesothelial tissues or mesothelium. This is the layer of tissues that surrounds the organs of the chest, abdominal cavity, and pelvis. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos – a group of minerals that have been connected to serious cancers and diseases.
Asbestos is a light and fibrous silicate material that can easily become airborne. Anyone nearby could then inhale or ingest the asbestos particles, leading to them getting lodged in the mesothelium. Microscopic asbestos fibers can get lodged in the mesothelial tissues or elsewhere in the body and cause harm, tissue damage, irritation and scarring over time.
Asbestos can potentially cause changes to a victim’s DNA, creating cancer cells and malignant tumors. Unfortunately, there is no way to rid the body of asbestos fibers once they have gotten stuck. The average latency period for mesothelioma, or the time between a victim’s exposure to asbestos and the development of cancer, is 20-60+ years.
Who Is Most at Risk of Mesothelioma?
Before it was confirmed as a known carcinogen (meaning it can cause cancer in humans) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, asbestos was a popular ingredient in construction materials and a variety of other consumer products. This is because asbestos is naturally fire-resistant, with an extremely high melting point of over 2700 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also durable, resistant to corrosion and was mined in abundance at the height of its popularity.
A range of products from drywall and insulation to automotive brakes were manufactured using asbestos from the 1800s until the 1990s, when federal regulations on how much asbestos could be used in manufacturing were passed by the Environmental Protection Agency. Anyone who had a part in creating, manufacturing, producing, distributing, installing or repairing these products and building materials may have been exposed to asbestos. People living in areas where asbestos was mined in Oklahoma could also be at risk.
Today, despite asbestos regulations and safety changes, victims can still be negligently exposed to asbestos at home, school, or work. Any building constructed prior to the 1990s may contain asbestos. If asbestos materials get moved, damaged or disturbed, they can release asbestos dust into the air. Workers in Oklahoma who are most at risk of occupational asbestos exposure include construction workers, firefighters, shipbuilders, auto mechanics, and military service members.
How Common Is Mesothelioma in Oklahoma?
According to data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from 2015 to 2019, Oklahoma had 156 new cases and 135 mesothelioma deaths. In 2019 alone, 23 people were diagnosed with mesothelioma in Oklahoma and 34 died. These numbers place it 30th on the list of states in terms of new mesothelioma cases. The two top counties for mesothelioma cases were Oklahoma County with 25 new cases and 27 deaths and Tulsa County with 19 cases and 21 deaths. The national annual average of new mesothelioma cases is around 3,127, according to the CDC.
What Types of Compensation Are Possible for a Mesothelioma Victim?
Mesothelioma is a largely preventable type of cancer. Avoiding exposure to asbestos can prevent this illness. Unfortunately, many people and entities in positions where they could protect others from asbestos exposure fall short of their responsibilities. Employers may cut corners in terms of worker protection to save time or money, failing to provide the necessary personal protective equipment. The owners of asbestos-contaminated buildings may not warn tenants or evacuate the building prior to a construction project.
Bringing a mesothelioma lawsuit against one or more negligent parties could lead to financial compensation being awarded to the victim for losses such as:
- Past and future necessary medical care
- Mesothelioma treatment costs and palliative care
- Losses of income and earning opportunities
- Physical pain and suffering
- Diminished quality or enjoyment of life
- Emotional anguish and distress
- Permanent disability
- Transportation, travel, and out-of-pocket cost
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
- Wrongful death damages
- Punitive damages, in some cases
The value of your mesothelioma case will depend on factors that are unique to you, such as the cost of your treatments, your age and overall health, the number of parties named as defendants in your lawsuit, and the insurance coverage available. Aside from a mesothelioma lawsuit, other sources of financial compensation may include asbestos trust funds, a workers’ compensation claim or a veterans claim. An attorney can go over your legal options in detail with you during a free case consultation at Bailey & Glasser, LLP.
Statute of Limitations to File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Oklahoma
Don’t wait to explore your legal rights and options with an attorney after learning that you have mesothelioma. Oklahoma has a strict deadline known as a statute of limitations on the ability to file a civil lawsuit. If you surpass your deadline, you will most likely give up your right to seek financial compensation for mesothelioma. The time limit under state law is two years from the date of diagnosis for a personal injury claim or two years from the date of death for a wrongful death claim.
Call (866) 871-7971 for a Free Mesothelioma Case Evaluation
Bailey & Glasser, LLP is a team of asbestos attorneys with years of experience and exceptional legal resources to help you build a claim. We will be there for you and your family after you learn of a mesothelioma diagnosis. Find out how we can help with your case today. Request a free, no-obligation consultation by calling (866) 871-7971 or contacting us online. We look forward to hearing from you.
