Asbestos was used in U.S. Steel mills as a common insulation material through the end of the 1970s. As a result, U.S. Steel workers were exposed to toxins potentially every day for decades.
U.S. Steel maintenance workers, machinists, pipefitters and boiler workers faced an extremely high risk of asbestos exposure in U.S. Steel mills. Welders, blacksmiths, bricklayers, millwrights and motor inspectors were also faced with asbestos on a regular basis. Regardless of the type of U.S. Steel mill worker, exposure to asbestos was likely when handling machinery, equipment and material in the process of manufacturing steel.
Asbestos insulation was used in a great deal of U.S. Steel equipment because it helped prevent fires and burns. This included ovens, hot blast stoves, furnaces, rolling mills, tanks, boilers, cranes, molding boards and steam pipes. U.S. Steel workers could inhale these asbestos fibers during the manufacturing process.
Workers in many U.S. Steel mills wore asbestos protective garments, including coats, leggings, gloves, aprons, coveralls and face masks, to protect them from extreme temperatures and from burns while working with dangerous materials.
U.S. Steel workers were also exposed to asbestos when handling asbestos blankets, refractory bricks, floor and ceiling tiles and liner boards. The Lyon Firm is investigating toxic exposure cancer cases at the following US Steel locations:
- Clairton, Pennsylvania
- Braddock, Pennsylvania
- Fairless, Pennsylvania
- Homestead, Pennsylvania
What Kind of Damages Are Available in a Steel Manufacturing Asbestos Lawsuit?
In a steel manufacturing asbestos lawsuit, individuals who have been exposed to asbestos and subsequently developed asbestos-related diseases or health issues may be entitled to various types of damages. The specific damages available can vary depending on the circumstances of the case, the jurisdiction, and the extent of the harm suffered.
Here are some common types of damages that may be available in such lawsuits:
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Medical Expenses: Plaintiffs may be eligible to recover compensation for the costs of medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, hospitalization, surgery, medications, and ongoing healthcare expenses related to asbestos-related illnesses.
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Pain and Suffering: This category of damages is designed to compensate individuals for the physical and emotional distress they have endured due to their asbestos-related illnesses. Asbestos-related diseases can be painful and debilitating, and this compensation is meant to acknowledge that suffering.
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Lost Wages and Future Earnings: If the plaintiff was unable to work or had to reduce their working hours due to their asbestos-related illness, they may be able to seek compensation for lost wages. Additionally, if their illness is expected to reduce their future earning capacity, they may be entitled to compensation for these future earnings that have been lost.
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Punitive Damages: In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious or exhibited a wanton disregard for safety, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.
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Funeral and Burial Expenses: In cases where the plaintiff has passed away due to an asbestos-related illness, their surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for the costs associated with their funeral and burial.
It’s important to note that the availability and extent of these damages can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the applicable laws in the jurisdiction.
To understand what damages may be available in your particular steel manufacturing asbestos lawsuit, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced asbestos attorney who can assess your case and provide tailored guidance.
What Does an Asbestos Lawyer Do for Your Case?
An asbestos lawyer, also known as a mesothelioma attorney, plays a crucial role in helping individuals who have been harmed by asbestos exposure pursue legal action and seek compensation.
Here’s an overview of what an asbestos lawyer does for your case:
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Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will work to collect and compile evidence to support your case. This may include medical records, employment history, witness statements, and other documents that establish your exposure to asbestos and the resulting health issues.
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Filing Lawsuits: Your attorney will initiate the legal process by filing lawsuits on your behalf against the responsible parties. This process may involve filing claims with asbestos trust funds, as many asbestos companies have established trusts to compensate victims.
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Negotiation: Your lawyer will engage in negotiations with the defendants or their insurance companies to reach a settlement that adequately compensates you for your damages. They will aim to secure the maximum compensation possible.
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Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your lawyer will prepare your case for trial. This involves presenting evidence, examining witnesses, and arguing your case in court.
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Asbestos Trust Funds: If applicable, your attorney will help you file claims with asbestos trust funds, which are established to compensate asbestos victims. They will assist in documenting your exposure history and medical condition to maximize your compensation from these trusts.
It’s important to choose an experienced asbestos lawyer who specializes in asbestos-related cases, as they have the expertise and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of these cases effectively.
We can help you understand your legal options, build a strong case, and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
ABOUT THE LYON FIRM
Joseph Lyon has 17 years of experience representing individuals in complex litigation matters. He has represented individuals in every state against many of the largest companies in the world.
The Firm focuses on single-event civil cases and class actions involving corporate neglect & fraud, toxic exposure, product defects & recalls, medical malpractice, and invasion of privacy.
NO COST UNLESS WE WIN
The Firm offers contingency fees, advancing all costs of the litigation, and accepting the full financial risk, allowing our clients full access to the legal system while reducing the financial stress while they focus on their healthcare and financial needs.
