Mesothelioma Lawyer Corpus Christi

An asbestos-related illness can appear many years after the exposure that caused it, which makes a diagnosis especially hard on the person and the family. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, Daspit Law Firm can review your work and exposure history and explain what legal options may exist. As a personal injury attorney in Corpus Christi, we serve clients in Nueces County and across South Texas.

What Is Asbestos and Where Was It Used?

Asbestos is a group of fibrous minerals that resist heat and fire, which is why they were used for insulation and in many building materials. Because the fibers are very durable, asbestos may still be present in older buildings.

Common Sources of Exposure

Asbestos has been associated with many industries and products, including:

•         Shipbuilding projects

•         Construction and building materials

•         Paint, coatings and adhesives

•         Automotive manufacturing

Past generations of workers were often told little about the risks. People who worked in construction or in industrial settings may have been exposed on the job, and family members may sometimes have been exposed through dust carried home on clothing.

Exposure Near Plants and Refineries

Workers in facilities with older insulation, piping and equipment may face asbestos exposure. Our page on plant and refinery accidents describes other hazards in these workplaces.

How Asbestos Exposure Leads to Mesothelioma

How the Fibers Affect the Body

Asbestos fibers can separate easily and float in the air. When they are breathed in or swallowed, they may lodge in the lungs or the lining of the chest or abdomen and cause damage over time. Mesothelioma is a cancer of that lining.

Why Diagnosis Often Comes Late

Symptoms commonly appear decades after exposure. Early signs, such as shortness of breath, a persistent cough or chest pain, can resemble more common conditions, so the disease is not always detected right away. Anyone with a history of asbestos exposure and these symptoms should tell their doctor about it.

Other Asbestos-Related Illnesses

Besides mesothelioma, asbestos exposure is associated with lung cancer and asbestosis, a scarring of lung tissue. Each condition has its own medical course and may affect a legal claim differently.

Who May Be Responsible for Asbestos Exposure?

Responsibility depends on where and how the exposure happened. Depending on the facts, claims may involve companies that made or sold asbestos-containing products, property owners or contractors. Our overview of product liability claims explains how defective or dangerous products can lead to legal action, and our page on chemical exposure and toxic tort cases covers related harm from hazardous substances.

Employers and Workers' Compensation

When exposure happened at work, the employer's insurance status matters. Many employers carry workers' compensation, which may limit suits against the employer but generally does not prevent claims against other responsible parties. An attorney can review who may be named in your situation.

Compensation in an Asbestos Case

Depending on the facts, damages may include medical expenses, treatment and care costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. If a person dies from an asbestos-related disease, eligible family members may be able to bring a wrongful death claim. Outcomes cannot be guaranteed, and each case is different.

Talk to a Corpus Christi Asbestos Attorney

If you believe asbestos caused you or a loved one to become ill, contact Daspit Law Firm to schedule a case review. We will listen, review your history and explain your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long after exposure can mesothelioma develop?

Mesothelioma often develops decades after exposure, which is one reason it can be diagnosed late. Because the timeline is long, details about past jobs and worksites can be important. A lawyer can help you gather work history and medical records.

Is there a deadline to file an asbestos claim in Texas?

Texas generally applies a two-year limit to personal injury claims, and in illness cases the clock may be tied to when the disease was or should have been discovered. Wrongful death claims have their own timing. Because these rules are technical, ask a lawyer about your dates soon.

What should I do if I think I was exposed to asbestos?

Tell your doctor about the possible exposure, follow medical advice, and write down where and when you worked with or near asbestos. Keep medical records and any employment records. Avoid disturbing suspected asbestos materials yourself.

Can family members file if the worker has died?

In some cases, yes. Texas law generally allows a surviving spouse, children and parents to pursue a wrongful death claim, and an estate may bring related claims. A lawyer can explain who may qualify in your family's situation.

Does Daspit Law Firm serve people outside Corpus Christi?

Our office is in Corpus Christi and we represent clients throughout the Coastal Bend and South Texas. Contact us to discuss where you live, where you worked and how we may be able to help.