Monday, June 8, 2009

File Your Asbestos Claim Today

By Lynn Lopez

Asbestos is a harmful toxin found in construction materials that was widely used in the 1800s to the 1900s due to its high electrical resistivity, cheap price, and fire retardant qualities. It was discovered subsequently to have deleterious effects on people. Asbestos is a known human carcinogen. Asbestos-laden products might exist anywhere. What makes asbestos harmful is when it gets airborne and people end up inhaling it. In due course, people exposed to asbestos are in danger of developing medical issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other disorders.

What can you do if you have been exposed to asbestos? You can always file an asbestos claim. You are probably owed compensation for the asbestos exposure, so find a lawyer with expertise on asbestos claims. Do your research. Get recommendations from everyone you know. It is very important to find a lawyer who is proficient in dealing with asbestos claims and works for a law firm that specializes in asbestos-related cases. Set up a list of potential lawyers to contact and prepare to meet with them on a one-on-one basis. Find out their success rate with previous asbestos claims. Get all estimates in writing. You need someone to help you win your case. Do not forget to request for their references.

During your interview, do not be intimidated by the lawyers you meet. As a possible client, you are meeting with them to use their expertise and services to pursue your asbestos claim. If they make you feel uncomfortable, move on to the next lawyer on your list. You are seeking their legal services to represent you. You will pay for their experience and expertise. There is no reason why you should force yourself to work with someone who does not make you feel comfortable. A good working relationship with your attorney is vital with a complicated case such as yours.

Your lawyer should be able to determine asbestos liability in relation to your asbestos claim. It is up to them to determine who can be sued for damages. Lawyers who are familiar with asbestos claims know that asbestos liability lawsuits can be filed against three possible parties: your employer, the safety equipment manufacturer and the asbestos supplier. In a residential setting, your claim can be filed against the property owner and the contractor. A good team of lawyers with expertise on asbestos-related cases is the best thing to back you up when you pursue your asbestos claim for damages and compensation.

Don't give up. You have a lot to gain from your asbestos claim. Choose your lawyers wisely, and let them do their job.

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