01. Filing Claims and Lawsuits in North Dakota
Filing Mesothelioma Claims and Lawsuits in North Dakota
North Dakota has potential asbestos-exposure sites in some cities, such as Minot and Stanton. Asbestos exposure is linked to diseases such as mesothelioma. From 1999 to 2017, there were 155 recorded instances of mesothelioma in North Dakota. Between 1999 and 2019, 148 North Dakotans passed away due to mesothelioma. Residents who were impacted by asbestos-related illnesses have filed lawsuits.
North Dakota has a small population, and the majority of its workers support agriculture. Workers in this industry risked exposure to asbestos in farming equipment, soil and vermiculite. Farmers using old equipment and working in old buildings continue to risk exposure. There are also exposure risks in the state at some residential, occupational and commercial sites.
North Dakotans who develop an illness related to asbestos exposure may be eligible to file a lawsuit or another type of claim. North Dakota has a longer statute of limitations for filing mesothelioma claims. However, North Dakota limits claims from other states.
An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can explain how North Dakota’s asbestos laws may impact filing options. They can provide legal options for victims of asbestos exposure in North Dakota.
Who Is Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Claim in North Dakota?
North Dakotans who develop an illness as a result of asbestos exposure may be eligible to file a claim. Some cities have a higher risk for asbestos exposure in North Dakota. This is because specific companies and jobsites handled asbestos products. Robinson Insulation Plant in Minot, North Dakota, is one of these high-risk sites.
The Minot plant used vermiculite from Libby, Montana, to make insulation. W.R. Grace mined Libby vermiculite. The Libby mine also contained asbestos, which contaminated the vermiculite. In 1983, after 38 years of use, the Minot plant stopped processing the vermiculite. Until this time, workers at the plant may have been exposed to asbestos.
In 2001, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found asbestos in the dust and soil near the plant. In 2002, the EPA completed the mandated cleanup of the site. During the cleanup, the EPA demolished all processing buildings and residences across the street. The agency also replaced the contaminated soil.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) inspected the area after the cleanup. They found no risk for current or new contamination. Individuals who worked or lived near the Robinson Insulation Plant may have experienced exposure. Because of the long latency period of asbestos-related diseases, North Dakotans exposed at the site are still at risk of developing an illness.
North Dakota 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:
- Fargo, ND
- Grand Forks, ND
- Hazen, ND
- Larimore, ND
- Napoleon, ND
Deadlines for Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in North Dakota
If diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, North Dakotans may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Individuals should first contact a qualified law firm for guidance. These top-rated attorneys can help gather the documentation needed to file a claim.
Claims must be filed within the state’s filing deadline, called the statute of limitations. In general, the deadline runs from the date of diagnosis or death. Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. Surviving family members may also be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit for their loved one.
Besides lawsuits, individuals may qualify for other claim types. These include asbestos trust fund claims or veterans benefits claims. These options may still be available after the statute of limitations expires. Individuals should talk to an experienced lawyer about their eligibility.
02. North Dakota Mesothelioma Law Firms
Mesothelioma Law Firms in North Dakota
Mesothelioma law firms can help North Dakota residents file a claim and receive compensation. These law firms have experience with different types of claims, including lawsuits and asbestos trust funds. Lawyers at these firms can explain an individual’s eligibility for different claim options and assist with the entire claim process.
The following law firms can help people living in North Dakota receive compensation:
A nationwide law firm will give you access to experienced attorneys who will be happy to travel to you. They will guide you through the details of your case and address any questions you have. These lawyers will assist you throughout the entire claim process.
Additionally, these law firms have years of experience, a deep knowledge of asbestos laws and access to extensive resources to build your lawsuit. With their background, the lawyers at these firms can decide which jurisdiction will provide the most favorable financial outcome for your case. Filing a lawsuit outside your state of residence may have the best outcome. Their legal teams will guide you through the whole process.
Resources for Mesothelioma Patients
03. North Dakota Mesothelioma Settlements and Verdicts
Mesothelioma & Asbestos Settlements in North Dakota
Victims of asbestos exposure in North Dakota have received millions of dollars in compensation. Experienced law firms can help claimants file lawsuits to earn the compensation they deserve.
As a reference point, we have provided below a sampling of mesothelioma settlements achieved on behalf of North Dakota residents who were exposed to asbestos in the workplace:
- $800,000: Truck Driver/Sales – 81 years old
- $500,000: Army/Printer – 81 years old
- $500,000: Navy/Welder – 79 years old
- $400,000: Army/Mechanic – 87 years old
Note: Each lawsuit is different, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome in the future. Contact a reputable North Dakota mesothelioma lawyer to understand how much compensation you may be eligible to receive.
04. Asbestos Laws in North Dakota
North Dakota Asbestos Laws & Regulations
North Dakota follows federal laws regulating asbestos. It also has state-specific regulations under the North Dakota Pollution Control Rules. The Asbestos Control Program oversees the enforcement of Emission Standards for Asbestos. The program also licenses asbestos abatement workers and contractors.
The Asbestos Control Program enforces federal and state regulations for handling asbestos. Some of these asbestos regulations include:
- Individuals must submit Form SFN17987 10 days before demolition or remodeling.
- A state-licensed inspector must check the property for asbestos.
- A state-certified worker must properly remove all asbestos-contaminated materials the inspector finds.
- Workers must dispose of all asbestos waste in an approved landfill.
Failure to follow this process can result in fines.
For instance, in 1998, North Dakota renovation company owner Jerry Meide pleaded guilty for violating the Clean Air Act. He did not follow legal regulations for handling or disposal of asbestos materials. Meide’s sentence was 10 months confinement and one-year supervised release. Meide reimbursed North Dakota $100,000 for the proper cleanup of asbestos. He and his company jointly paid another $100,000 fine.
These regulations help protect workers and the public from dangerous exposure.
Find Mesothelioma Doctors, Lawyers and Asbestos Exposure Sites Near You
