Asbestos exposure is still a serious issue in Louisiana, especially for workers in high-risk industries. People who have worked in oil refineries, shipyards, or construction may have been exposed to asbestos fibers. This exposure can lead to diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer, sometimes years after the initial contact. It is important for anyone affected to understand what rights they have and how they can seek compensation.
Where Asbestos Exposure Happens in Louisiana
Louisiana is home to several industries where asbestos was heavily used. Workers in places like Calumet Refineries, Higgins Shipyard, and Marathon Refinery were often exposed to asbestos used for insulation in machinery and buildings.
Even family members of these workers were at risk. Asbestos fibers can easily be carried home on clothing, leading to secondary exposure, which can also cause illnesses.
After Hurricane Katrina, asbestos exposure increased when damaged buildings released fibers into the air. Cleanup workers and first responders were particularly vulnerable.
Your Legal Rights as an Asbestos Victim
If you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, you have the right to seek compensation. Louisiana allows victims to file lawsuits against the companies responsible for their exposure. Many companies used asbestos even though they knew it was dangerous. Successful lawsuits, such as the $8.5 million awarded to a mechanic in 2021, show how much can be gained from these claims.
Besides lawsuits, victims may also be able to get money from asbestos trust funds. These funds were set up to help victims after many asbestos-using companies went bankrupt. However, to file a claim, you will need to provide evidence that links your illness to asbestos exposure, which is why legal help is so important.
Steps to Take for Compensation
To get compensation, you will need to prove where and how you were exposed to asbestos. This can be done through employment records, medical reports, and expert testimony. It is important to act quickly, as there are time limits on filing asbestos claims in Louisiana. Working with an experienced asbestos attorney will help you gather the right evidence and file your claim within the necessary timeframe.
Contact Pourciau Law Firm for help navigating your options and securing the compensation you deserve.