01. Filing Claims and Lawsuits in Idaho
Filing Mesothelioma Claims and Lawsuits in Idaho
Mesothelioma lawyers can help Idaho workers and residents file lawsuits and negotiate settlements for asbestos diseases.
Many mesothelioma lawsuits filed today are linked to exposure that occurred decades ago in mines, lumber mills, paper mills, steel mills and power plants. Asbestos exposure in Idaho may have happened in many industries and settings. As a result, many workers and their loved ones have developed asbestos-related illnesses. Between 1999 and 2019, 290 Idaho residents died from mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma lawyers have filed lawsuits for Idaho workers in various industries. Several Idaho counties have been impacted by asbestos-related deaths. Listed below are the counties with the highest number of asbestos deaths between 1999 and 2019, in descending order:
- Ada County (home to Boise, Idaho)
- Kootenai County (home to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho)
- Bonneville County (home to Idaho Falls, Idaho)
Lawyers experienced in Idaho law can help litigate asbestos-related claims. Mesothelioma attorneys have also recovered compensation for Idahoans affected by mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.
Who Is Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Claim in Idaho?
Idaho residents may be eligible for compensation if they were exposed to asbestos and developed mesothelioma or another asbestos disease. Spouses and surviving family members may also be able to file a mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit or request compensation for non-economic items, such as loss of consortium.
Asbestos exposure in Idaho may have occurred at work, home or even school. For example, the Idaho panhandle has several areas with naturally occurring asbestos deposits. Notable sites where asbestos exposure occurred include:
- Potlatch Corporation facilities
- Boise Cascade Company facilities
- Kamiah Asbestos Mine
- Idaho National Laboratory
- J.R. Simplot Company’s Don Siding Plant
- Bunker Hill Mining and Metallurgical Complex
Buildings constructed before 1980 are likely to contain asbestos materials, including floor and ceiling tiles, insulated pipes and fireproofing products. Renovating or demolishing buildings with these products can lead to asbestos exposure.
In 2013, two Idaho business owners failed to properly follow state asbestos guidelines during a waterline renovation project. They were sentenced to six months in federal prison, six months of home confinement and 200 hours of community service. The owners were also ordered to pay $3.98 million to compensate the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for cleanup costs.
Even though asbestos-containing products have been phased out since the 1980s, the exposure risk continues today.
Idaho residents living in the following towns and cities have filed mesothelioma lawsuits to protect their rights and seek compensation from manufacturers and distributors of asbestos:
- Boise, ID
- Cocolalla, ID
- Eagle, ID
- Garden City, ID
- Idaho Falls, ID
- Kimberly, ID
- Melba, ID
- Meridian, ID
- Nampa, ID
- Pocatello, ID
- Post Falls, ID
- Rupert, ID
- Soda Springs, ID
- Spirit Lake, ID
- Twin Falls, ID
- Weiser, ID
- Wilder, ID
Deadlines for Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in Idaho
Certain deadlines and statutes dictate a claimant’s eligibility for a mesothelioma lawsuit. This includes the statutes of limitations, which determine how much time claimants have to file a lawsuit after an asbestos diagnosis or death.
As a result, anyone who has been diagnosed with an asbestos disease should consult an attorney as soon as possible to see if they may be eligible for compensation.
However, if the statute of limitations has passed, asbestos victims may be able to recover compensation from an asbestos trust fund. This is just one of several options for Idaho residents who have been affected by mesothelioma.
02. Idaho Mesothelioma Law Firms
Mesothelioma Law Firms in Idaho
Individuals who have lived or worked in Idaho and develop an asbestos-related illness can seek legal support. Local and nationwide mesothelioma law firms experienced in asbestos and mesothelioma claims can guide claimants through the filing process. Lawyers at these firms understand state laws that impact claim options. They can explain an individual’s legal options, determine the best course of action and help file the claim.
The following law firms can help people living in Idaho receive compensation:
Nationwide law firms have extensive experience handling mesothelioma and asbestos lawsuits. Lawyers at these firms have litigated against large asbestos companies, securing meaningful settlements for their clients. They have access to numerous resources to build your case and a thorough knowledge of asbestos laws. They can help you choose the best jurisdiction to file your claim. It may not be in your current state of residence.
You don’t have to worry about traveling during this difficult time. Lawyers will travel to you to talk about your case and address any questions or concerns you have. They will keep the process as effortless as possible. These firms will handle the entire claim process on your behalf and are dedicated to getting you and your loved ones the best financial outcome.
Resources for Mesothelioma Patients
03. Idaho Mesothelioma Settlements and Verdicts
Mesothelioma & Asbestos Settlements in Idaho
Idaho workers and residents have recovered compensation from dozens of companies that used, sold or distributed asbestos-containing materials. In personal injury and wrongful death cases, claimants may receive economic and non-economic compensation.
These payments cover medical expenses and lost income, as well as emotional losses, including those experienced by a spouse. Cases may result in a settlement, which 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 Idaho residents who were exposed to asbestos in the workplace:
- $4.4 MILLION: Electrician – 76 years old
- $2.9 MILLION: Navy/Inspector – 67 years old
- $2.5 MILLION: Navy Worker/HVAC – 53 years old
- $2.2 MILLION: Plumber/Pipefitter – 68 years old
- $2.0 MILLION: Painter/Maintenance – 81 years old
- $2.0 MILLION: Maintenance/Welder – 54 years old
- $1.9 MILLION: Navy/Machinist – 66 years old
- $1.2 MILLION: Army/Construction – 62 years old
- $1.1 MILLION: Navy Worker – 83 years old
- $1.0 MILLION: Navy/Mechanic – 77 years old
Mesothelioma & Asbestos Verdicts in Idaho
Idaho residents and workers may also see their mesothelioma cases end in a court verdict.
In September 2019, a 71-year-old Idaho woman was awarded $40.3 million against Johnson & Johnson. The woman developed malignant pleural mesothelioma after using the company’s baby powder and Shower to Shower products. Her diagnosis caused by tremolite and anthophyllite asbestos exposure required the plaintiff to undergo multiple treatments. Her treatment plan included surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy.
Note: The value of each case is different. Past verdicts and settlements do not guarantee a similar outcome. For specific information about the type of compensation available, workers should contact a reputable Idaho mesothelioma attorney for personalized advice.
04. Asbestos Laws in Idaho
Idaho Asbestos Laws & Regulations
Certain Idaho agencies have enacted state-specific asbestos regulations for litigation and workplace safety. Idaho workers, residents and corporations are also subject to all federal asbestos regulations. Idaho asbestos regulations include:
- Asbestos abatement: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality is responsible for regulating asbestos abatement projects at certain major demolition and renovation sites. Non-major projects are regulated by the EPA.
- Successor liability: Idaho corporate law limits a company’s liability during a merger or acquisition to the total fair market value of the predecessor’s gross assets at the time of the merger or acquisition.
- Non-economic damages cap: Due to tort reform lawsuits, there is now a limit on how much compensation courts may award in personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Recoveries for non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, are limited to just over $386,000 when adjusted for inflation.
- Trust funds: The Idaho Asbestos Bankruptcy Trust Claims Transparency Act establishes specific procedures for initiating and managing claims for asbestos-related injuries, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Idaho mesothelioma lawyers can provide more specific advice about these requirements.