After more than 50 years of litigation, asbestos has caused more and more expensive lawsuits in the United States than any other defective product or material. The crystal fibers in asbestos deposits have been linked by many medical professionals with certain types of cancer, which may appear in several internal organs.
Most of the issues regarding asbestos exposure had to do with solid products used as insulation, construction material or industrial fodder in homes, offices and shipyard across the country. But a recent class of lawsuits targets a popular hygienic product: talcum powder.
One of the world’s largest producers of basic toiletries has already been sued many times for billions of dollars with suits alleging executives knew of the risk that talcum powder contained asbestos particles. Some internal documents have been used in allegations that the company communicated about hazards and tried to hide them from the public.
The U.S. Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has recently subpoenaed documents and reports that may prove this option was exercised by the company, violating several laws and the public trust. More than 12,000 lawsuits are pending against the company in several states, including Louisiana, and the federal investigation may supply plaintiffs with valuable evidence.
People suffering due to possible asbestos exposure in a workplace or their own home may have a case for financial damages to help with recovery or related medical expenses. An attorney can help review the medical history of potential victims and assist with the decision to bring a specific case to court in the Bayou State.