Ashland Mesothelioma Lawyer

Proven Mesothelioma Attorney in Ashland, KY

An Ashland mesothelioma lawyer can assist individuals and families in filing claims for compensation after a work-related, military, or secondary asbestos exposure diagnosis. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to learn about your legal rights as soon as possible. Doing so can preserve evidence and help you identify all possible sources of compensation.

Why Choose Kelley Ferraro, LLC?

At Kelley Ferraro, LLC, we have been advocating for the rights of individuals harmed by asbestos exposure and other catastrophic injuries for nearly 30 years. Our firm has handled claims for over 40,000 clients nationwide. We believe in standing up to manufacturers, suppliers, and large corporations that have put workers and their families at risk by exposing them to toxic asbestos products.

Kelley Ferraro, LLC, can help you seek the full amount of compensation to which you may be entitled. Learn more about Partner Jim Ferraro’s background with challenging, significant cases concerning severe injuries in his book, “Blindsided.”

Kentucky Laws That May Affect Mesothelioma Claims

Under Kentucky law, most personal injury claims must be filed within one year after the injury is discovered. Since mesothelioma may not develop for decades after exposure, this time limit is usually tolled (paused) until the victim is diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Surviving family members who are eligible to file a wrongful death claim may be able to recover compensation if a loved one dies of mesothelioma. These claims are subject to different laws and statutes of limitations, so it is critical to take action as soon as possible after a loved one passes away.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be released into the air when materials containing asbestos are disturbed. People can inhale or ingest microscopic asbestos fibers and develop mesothelioma years later.

Employees in Ashland worked in steel mills, chemical plants, oil refineries, railway systems, and building construction. Former employees of the Armco Steel Plant, Marathon refinery, power plants, and other industrial businesses along the Ohio River may have been exposed to asbestos insulation, pipe coverings, boilers, pumps, valves, and other equipment that contained asbestos. 

Electricians, plumbers, mechanics, maintenance workers, and contractors who worked on older buildings may have also been exposed to asbestos.

For many people, mesothelioma symptoms do not appear until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure. Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, fluid in the lung, and weight loss. In 2023, there were 2,709 new cases of mesothelioma in the United States. There were 23 new cases that year in Kentucky. 

Damages Available in Mesothelioma Cases

Damages in mesothelioma claims are intended to compensate victims for losses they have experienced as a result of their exposure to asbestos. Some examples of damages in mesothelioma cases include:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical care
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning potential
• Funeral and burial costs if a loved one dies
• Pain and suffering

While some companies may no longer be in business, other companies may be responsible for your exposure. Some victims of mesothelioma are able to file claims with asbestos trust funds. These trust funds were created after companies filed for bankruptcy due to the large number of asbestos claims they faced. 

Why Hire a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

When you hire a mesothelioma lawyer, you gain access to resources that can help you uncover asbestos exposures that may have happened many years ago. Because exposure often happens at the workplace, your Ashland mesothelioma attorney can look back through your work history and union membership, Veterans Affairs records, medical records, and product archives to determine which companies to hold accountable.

Your attorney can tell you if asbestos trust fund claims are an option, pinpoint all the companies and suppliers liable, manage medical and occupational professionals, collect crucial evidence, and make sure your claims are filed within Kentucky’s legal time limits. Most victims of asbestos exposure weren’t exposed at a single worksite. It’s important that your attorney identify every source of compensation you deserve to pursue.

FAQs

Can I File a Claim for Asbestos Exposure Without Illness?

Generally, asbestos exposure by itself isn’t sufficient grounds for a successful legal claim. To pursue most asbestos-related legal cases, you’ll need a doctor’s diagnosis of an illness like mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis and the ability to demonstrate its link to asbestos exposure. The laws of your state determine if any legal remedies are available in your particular circumstances, so an attorney can advise you if you have any legal options.

What Is the Average Settlement for Asbestos Exposure?

There is no standard settlement amount that applies to all asbestos exposure claims. The value of your claim depends on many factors, including the diagnosed illness, medical bills, lost wages, where and how long you were exposed to asbestos, and how many companies potentially share responsibility for your exposure. Some claims are eligible for payment from an asbestos trust fund. Others may settle through traditional litigation or may go to trial.

Does Everyone Who Has Been Exposed to Asbestos Get Mesothelioma?

No, the majority of people who have been exposed to asbestos do not develop mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is most commonly linked to asbestos exposure, and the risk typically increases with greater contact. Additional factors, including the duration of exposure, the type of asbestos to which a person was exposed, and individual health factors, may also play a role.

What if the Company That Exposed Me to Asbestos Is Out of Business?

Even if the company that exposed you to asbestos is out of business, you may still be able to file a claim. Many companies have gone bankrupt due to the high amount of asbestos liability they faced. As part of the bankruptcy process, most of these companies were required to set up asbestos bankruptcy trust funds. These trusts were created to provide compensation to future asbestos victims. 

Get Trusted Legal Guidance

A mesothelioma diagnosis impacts your health and your family’s financial well-being. For nearly 30 years, Kelley Ferraro, LLC, has been advocating for asbestos victims across the country. We’ve worked with over 40,000 clients to seek the justice they deserve. Contact us to learn more about your exposure and legal options.