01. Filing Claims and Lawsuits in Alabama
Filing Mesothelioma Claims and Lawsuits in Alabama
Individuals living and working in Alabama have developed asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma. Between 1999 and 2017, 771 Alabama residents were diagnosed with mesothelioma. In about the same timeframe, 641 Alabama residents died of the aggressive cancer.
Many mesothelioma patients and their surviving loved ones have taken legal action. Patients have filed mesothelioma lawsuits linked to asbestos exposure that occurred decades ago.
Experienced mesothelioma lawyers can help Alabama residents file lawsuits, litigate asbestos-related claims and negotiate settlements for asbestos diseases. If the patient is a veteran, they may be eligible for VA benefits as well.
Who Is Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Claim in Alabama?
Alabama asbestos exposure victims may be eligible for compensation if they developed an asbestos-related disease. Spouses and surviving family members may also be able to file a wrongful death claim.
Mesothelioma lawyers have filed successful lawsuits and claims for Alabama workers in various industries and asbestos jobsites. Alabama workplaces with documented occupational asbestos exposure include:
- Chemical plants
- Manufacturing plants
- Military bases
- Oil refineries
- Paper mills
- Power plants
- Shipyards
- Steel mills
Exposure of any amount can lead to the development of an asbestos disease. However, more frequent exposure can increase risk. For example, shipyard workers are considered high risk for an asbestos disease due to the mineral’s frequent use in shipbuilding. Shipyards in Alabama that used asbestos include:
- Alabama Drydock and Shipping Company (ADDSCO)
- Alabama Steel & Shipbuilding Company
- Gulf Shipbuilding Company
- Waterman Steamship Corporation
Alabama residents may also encounter asbestos in areas besides their workplaces. The mineral can be found in homes, schools and other structures built before 1980. Disturbing these materials on purpose or by accident can release asbestos dust.
Residents of Alabama who lived in the following cities and towns have filed mesothelioma lawsuits to protect their rights and to seek compensation from negligent manufacturers and distributors of asbestos:
- Addison, AL
- Birmingham, AL
- Centre, AL
- Cullman, AL
- Dothan, AL
- Eight Mile, AL
- Eufaula, AL
- Florence, AL
- Gadsden, AL
- Gardendale, AL
- Hillsboro, AL
- Huntsville, AL
- Jasper, AL
- Madison, AL
- Margaret, AL
- Mobile, AL
- Montgomery, AL
- Muscle Shoals, AL
- Northport, AL
- Pine Hill, AL
- Snead, AL
- Theodore, AL
- Toney, AL
- Town Creek, AL
- Tuscaloosa, AL
Deadlines for Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in Alabama
Laws known as statutes of limitations dictate a victim’s eligibility to file a mesothelioma lawsuit. These statutes determine how much time victims have to file a lawsuit after a mesothelioma diagnosis or death.
As a result, Alabama residents wishing to file an asbestos lawsuit should consult an attorney quickly to see if they may be eligible for compensation.
Asbestos victims may be able to recover compensation in other ways. For example, individuals may be eligible to file a claim with an asbestos trust fund. Bankrupt asbestos companies have established these funds to handle current and future asbestos claims.
Alabama patients should contact an attorney to determine which type of claim is right for their situation.
02. Alabama Mesothelioma Law Firms
Mesothelioma Law Firms in Alabama
Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness may be eligible to file a compensation claim in Alabama. Mesothelioma law firms can explain eligibility, filing options and how state laws may impact claims. Asbestos lawyers can assist with all aspects of the filing process, including investigating the claim and gathering needed documentation.
The following law firms can help people living in Alabama receive compensation:
Choosing a nationwide law firm can provide various advantages over working with a smaller, local law firm. Lawyers at national law firms have decades of combined experience litigating asbestos lawsuits. They have brought successful claims against large asbestos companies to secure settlements for their clients. These law firms are well-versed in asbestos laws across the country and can ensure your lawsuit is filed in the most favorable jurisdiction. They will also determine if additional compensation can be obtained by filing claims with asbestos trusts.
Because of their national reach, lawyers at these law firms are also able to travel to you. They can meet you in person to address your questions, concerns and needs. Their goal is to make the entire claim process as easy as possible and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Resources for Mesothelioma Patients
03. Alabama Mesothelioma Settlements and Verdicts
Mesothelioma & Asbestos Settlements in Alabama
Alabama workers and residents have recovered compensation from dozens of parties that used, sold or distributed asbestos-containing materials. Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit against these negligent parties can help asbestos victims receive compensation to cover medical expenses and lost income.
Lawsuits may result in a jury verdict against the defendants. Other cases may result in a settlement. A settlement is a legal agreement reached between the plaintiff and defendant.
As a reference point, we have provided below a sampling of settlements achieved on behalf of Alabama residents who were exposed to asbestos in the workplace:
Mesothelioma & Asbestos Verdicts in Alabama
Many lawsuits have been successfully decided in favor of asbestos victims in Alabama. Experienced mesothelioma attorneys can help ensure the best outcome and award.
In 2001, five Alabama men received a total award of $130 million from an asbestos-related case. Two of the men passed away before the verdict was reached. Their widows were substituted as plaintiffs. The awards for the living plaintiffs and widows included:
- The living plaintiffs received $4 million each in compensatory damages and $10 million each in punitive damages.
- The widows of the deceased plaintiffs received $2 million each. The jury also awarded $4 million to the deceased victims’ estates.
These awards were assessed against the defendant, Dresser Industries. At the time, Halliburton Company owned Dresser Industries.
Note: Each lawsuit is different, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome in the future. Contact a reputable Alabama mesothelioma lawyer to understand how much compensation you may be eligible to receive.
04. Asbestos Laws in Alabama
Alabama Asbestos Laws & Regulations
Certain Alabama agencies have enacted state-specific asbestos regulations for litigation and workplace safety. These regulations are overseen and administered by several bodies, including:
- The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM)
- The ADEM Air Division
Alabama regulations related to asbestos exposure and handling in the state include:
- Alabama Asbestos Contractor Accreditation Program: This program sets requirements for contractors to follow for proper asbestos licensing. These requirements must be followed by all training providers, training courses, firms and asbestos professionals in Alabama.
- Asbestos Abatement Requirements/Codes: These codes include the requirements for asbestos abatement certifications. Additionally, rules related to notification and waste disposal can be found in Alabama Administrative Code r. 335-3.
Certain pieces of state legislation may also impact filing deadlines, legal precedents and awards caps in Alabama. Experienced attorneys stay up to date on these matters. They can help Alabama residents with mesothelioma choose the best course of action for their claims.
Find Mesothelioma Doctors, Lawyers and Asbestos Exposure Sites Near You
