Hi there and welcome to our comprehensive guide on Florida mesothelioma verdicts. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure, is a serious health concern that affects thousands of people in Florida every year. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it can be devastating news. However, if your illness was caused by exposure to asbestos in the workplace or other settings, you may be eligible for compensation through a mesothelioma lawsuit.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which form the lining of the chest and abdomen. It is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries until the 1980s. When asbestos is disturbed or damaged, microscopic fibers are released into the air and can be inhaled or ingested, leading to mesothelioma and other serious health problems.
Mesothelioma can take many years to develop, often showing symptoms decades after exposure to asbestos. Common symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss. Because mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience any of these symptoms.
Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Florida
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it may be possible to file a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your exposure to asbestos. In Florida, there have been many successful mesothelioma lawsuits that have resulted in significant verdicts and settlements for victims and their families.
To file a mesothelioma lawsuit in Florida, you will need to work with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who can help you navigate the complex legal process. Your lawyer will gather evidence to support your case, including medical records and documentation of your exposure to asbestos, and will negotiate with the defendants to secure a fair settlement or verdict.
Common Defendants in Florida Mesothelioma Lawsuits
In most mesothelioma lawsuits, there are multiple defendants who are responsible for the victim’s exposure to asbestos. Some common defendants in Florida mesothelioma lawsuits include:
| Company | Industry |
|---|---|
| Johns Manville | Building materials |
| Union Carbide | Chemicals |
| Philip Morris | Tobacco |
| General Electric | Electronics |
| US Steel | Steel manufacturing |
These companies and others have been found liable for mesothelioma cases in Florida and have paid out millions of dollars in compensation to victims and their families.
Successful Mesothelioma Verdicts in Florida
Over the years, there have been many mesothelioma verdicts in Florida that have resulted in significant compensation for victims and their families. Here are just a few examples:
Case 1: Smith v. John Manville Corporation
In 1982, mesothelioma victim Larry Smith was awarded $2.8 million in a verdict against building materials company Johns Manville. The verdict was based on evidence that Smith had been exposed to asbestos while working as a carpenter and drywall installer, and that Johns Manville had been aware of the dangers of asbestos for decades but failed to warn its employees.
Case 2: Johnson v. Union Carbide Corporation
In 1999, mesothelioma victim Robert Johnson was awarded $60 million in a verdict against chemicals company Union Carbide. The verdict was based on evidence that Johnson had been exposed to asbestos while working as a pipefitter and that Union Carbide had known about the dangers of asbestos for many years but failed to take adequate safety precautions.
Case 3: Stewart v. Philip Morris USA
In 2007, mesothelioma victim Benny Stewart was awarded $30 million in a verdict against tobacco company Philip Morris. The verdict was based on evidence that Stewart had been exposed to asbestos while working in a factory that used asbestos-containing filters in cigarette production, and that Philip Morris had been aware of the dangers of asbestos for decades but failed to warn its employees.
FAQs About Florida Mesothelioma Verdicts
Q: How much compensation can I receive in a mesothelioma lawsuit?
A: The amount of compensation you can receive in a mesothelioma lawsuit depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of your illness, the extent of your asbestos exposure, and the defendants’ liability. In Florida, mesothelioma verdicts and settlements have ranged from a few hundred thousand dollars to tens of millions of dollars.
Q: How long does it take to receive compensation in a mesothelioma lawsuit?
A: The timeline for a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary depending on the specifics of your case. In general, mesothelioma lawsuits take longer than other types of personal injury cases because of the need to gather extensive evidence and the complexity of the legal process. It may take several months or even years to reach a settlement or verdict.
Q: Do I need to go to court to file a mesothelioma lawsuit?
A: Not necessarily. Many mesothelioma lawsuits are settled out of court, meaning that the defendants agree to pay a certain amount of compensation to the victim and their family without going to trial. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, it may be necessary to go to court and present your case to a judge and jury.
Q: Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit on behalf of a deceased loved one?
A: Yes. If your loved one passed away from mesothelioma, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit on their behalf. This type of lawsuit can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages caused by the victim’s mesothelioma.
Q: How do I find a mesothelioma lawyer in Florida?
A: There are many experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Florida who can help you with your case. You can search online for mesothelioma lawyers in your area or ask for recommendations from other mesothelioma victims or support groups.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it can be a difficult and overwhelming time. However, by working with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer and pursuing a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your exposure to asbestos, you may be able to secure the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding Florida mesothelioma verdicts and the legal process for pursuing a mesothelioma lawsuit.