Experienced Kentucky mesothelioma lawyers help victims of an asbestos-related illness recover millions of dollars in damages. Industries like coal mining, construction, plumbing, railroad, and sheet metal have contributed heavily to asbestos exposure and resulting illnesses in Kentucky.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Kentucky, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim, and much more.
FREE Financial Compensation Packet
- Info on law firms that will recover your HIGHEST COMPENSATION
- Learn how to get paid in 90 days
- File for your share of $30 billion in trust funds
We offer assistance to all areas of Kentucky, including:
Lexington, Louisville, Bowling Green, Owensboro, Covington, Hopkinsville, Richmond, Florence, Georgetown, Elizabethtown, Henderson, Nicholasville, Frankfort, Jefferson Town, Independence, Paducah, Radcliff, Ashland, Madisonville, Erlanger, Winchester, Murray, St. Matthews, Burlington, Danville, Fort Thomas, Shively, Newport, Shelbyville, Berea, Glasgow, Fort Campbell North, Bardstone, Mount Washington, Shepherdsville, Somerset, Lyndon, Lawrenceburg, Campbellsville, Fort Knox, Mayfield, Middlesbrough, Paris, Francisville, Versailles, Maysville, Oakbrook, Edgewood, Alexandria, Franklin, Elsmere, Harrodsburg, La Grange, Fort Mitchell, London, Hillview, Oak Grove, Flatwoods, Villa Hills, Middletown, Corbin, Mount Sterling, Russellville, Highland Heights, Morehead, Pikeville, Leitchfield, Taylor Mill, Cynthiana, Princeton, Monticello, Cold Spring, Wilmore, Central City, Bellevue, Fort Wright, Union, Lebanon, Douglass Hills, Buckner, Hebron, Hazard, Vine Grove, Dayton, Williamsburg, Prospect, Westwood Cdp, Crestwood, Hendron, Farley, Reidland, Ludlow, Columbia, Greenville, Benton, Scottsville, Hurstbourne, Massac, Paintsville, and more.
Kentucky Asbestos Facts
- Coal mining is the number one industry in the state to contribute to asbestos exposure.
- Over 3,100 people died because of asbestos exposure in Kentucky between 1999 and 2017.
- Lung cancer caused most of these deaths, with mesothelioma causing 579 deaths and asbestosis 237.
- Jefferson County has the highest number of asbestos-related deaths.
- Kentucky ranks in the middle of all states for asbestos deaths.
Understanding Mesothelioma: Causes and Origins
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It develops when cells in the mesothelium, the protective layer surrounding these organs, undergo malignant transformation.
The Role of Asbestos in Mesothelioma Development
Asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals, is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Its fibers, when inhaled or ingested, can become lodged in the mesothelium, leading to irritation and eventually, tumor formation. Despite its recognized dangers, asbestos was widely used in construction materials, insulation, and various industrial products throughout the 20th century.
Why Asbestos Exposure Is Often Deliberate
Unfortunately, many companies were aware of asbestos’s health risks long before safety regulations were enforced. Yet, they continued to use it in their products, often failing to provide workers or consumers with adequate warnings or protection. This negligence was driven by the material’s durability and heat resistance, which made it a popular choice in manufacturing and construction.
In summary, mesothelioma is predominantly caused by asbestos exposure. The negligent actions of companies that concealed the dangers of their asbestos-laden products have led to numerous health challenges and subsequent legal battles seeking justice for affected individuals.
Why Do I Need a Kentucky Mesothelioma Lawyer?
If you have mesothelioma, you need a lawyer to help you seek compensation. Mesothelioma is a costly illness that requires expensive treatments that many patients must travel to get. Other costs are also associated with this disease, such as lost wages and home care.
Mesothelioma almost always results from negligent asbestos exposure. This means you can take action against the companies responsible for exposing you to asbestos.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me if I Have Mesothelioma?
The right lawyer can help you in several ways after a mesothelioma diagnosis:
- Review your case for free and explain your options
- Find all of your expenses to maximize the compensation you receive
- Investigate your past asbestos exposure to find evidence and build a strong case
- Negotiate a settlement with the companies responsible
- Litigate your case in court if necessary to seek a jury award
- File a claim with any asbestos trust funds you are eligible for
- Provide services at no cost until they win
Exploring Legal Avenues for Mesothelioma Compensation
When pursuing compensation for mesothelioma, there are several legal options available to victims and their families. Each path provides distinct benefits and processes:
- Asbestos Trust Fund Claims
Over $30 billion is still accessible through asbestos trust funds, intended to support mesothelioma victims. This option allows claimants to receive compensation without the need for courtroom proceedings, offering quicker relief for many families. - Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Filing a lawsuit against the companies accountable for asbestos exposure can lead to substantial financial compensation. This approach holds responsible parties accountable and often results in settlements or court awards that can significantly aid with medical expenses and other costs. - Veterans Benefits
Given that veterans account for a substantial portion of mesothelioma cases due to asbestos exposure during military service, they may be eligible for various VA benefits. These benefits can include specialized health care services and monthly compensation, tailored to support those who have bravely served the country.
Each of these avenues offers a way to secure much-needed financial support. Evaluating these options with a legal professional can help determine the most suitable path based on individual circumstances.
How to Find Kentucky Mesothelioma Lawyers
Working with a lawyer to get the compensation you need is essential, but it is also important to choose the right lawyer. Asbestos lawsuits are complicated, and you need an expert. Don’t settle for a lawyer without experience handling asbestos cases.
Look for a lawyer with proven experience and wins for mesothelioma clients. They should also be part of a large firm with the resources necessary to investigate and win your case. While you want a lawyer in Kentucky, asbestos cases are often filed out of state. A large, nationwide firm is important.
The right lawyer should also offer a free initial consultation and contingency payment. You should have any fees to pay until they win you the compensation you deserve.
When seeking a mesothelioma attorney in Kentucky, it’s crucial to understand the financial arrangements involved. Choosing a lawyer who operates on a contingency basis means you won’t face any initial or out-of-pocket costs. This arrangement ensures that the attorney is only compensated if they successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
Such a setup not only alleviates financial stress but also aligns the attorney’s success with yours. This partnership can provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your well-being while they handle the legal complexities.
Always inquire about these terms during your initial consultation, which should be offered free of charge. This meeting is a valuable opportunity to discuss your case without financial obligation, ensuring that you’re making an informed decision without any upfront commitment.
Is Travel Required for Filing a Mesothelioma Claim?
Filing a mesothelioma claim typically does not require you to travel extensively. Most attorneys specializing in asbestos-related cases understand the importance of convenience for their clients.
Here’s how they can accommodate you:
- Home Visits: Many law firms will arrange meetings at your home or another convenient location. This ensures comfort and minimizes any disruptions to your routine.
- Remote Communication: Advances in technology allow for efficient communication via phone, email, or video conferencing, reducing the need for in-person meetings.
- Local Representation: Attorneys often partner with local professionals to handle any necessary proceedings within your vicinity, making long-distance travel unlikely.
Keep in mind, while travel is generally minimal, there could be rare instances where a short trip might be necessary. However, law firms strive to manage cases locally whenever possible, ensuring you stay within your community throughout the process.
How Much Is My Mesothelioma Case Worth?
Compensation amounts in mesothelioma cases vary significantly. There are many individual factors your lawyer will consider to determine a fair amount:
- Your past and ongoing medical expenses
- Any travel expenses you have for getting treatment
- Future expected medical costs
- Personal and medical home care
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- The defendants involved and their degree of negligence
Most mesothelioma lawsuits end in settlements, which average between $1 and $1.4 million. Cases that go to trial and end in a jury award are often much higher, in the tens of millions of dollars.
For those affected by mesothelioma in Kentucky, there have been significant recoveries made by lawyers on behalf of their clients. Here are some noteworthy examples:
- $4.69 million awarded to a steel worker in Kuttawa, KY
- $3.73 million for a boiler tender in Bowling Green, KY
- $4.23 million secured for an assembly line worker in Richmond, KY
And these are just a few of the substantial settlements achieved. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- $3.37 million to a construction and drywall worker in Mayfield
- $3.24 million for a bookkeeper in Fancy Farm
- $2.38 million to a rubber company worker in Bowling Green
- $1.77 million for a delivery driver in Louisville with pleural mesothelioma
- $2.31 million to a U.S. Navy veteran and maintenance mechanic in Paducah
These cases illustrate the potential for significant compensation, highlighting the importance of experienced legal representation in mesothelioma lawsuits. Each case is unique, and settlement amounts can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, such as exposure history, age, and diagnosis.
If any of the companies that exposed you to asbestos went bankrupt, you will not be able to sue them for damages. You could be eligible to file a claim for compensation with an asbestos trust fund. These asbestos trusts still contain about $30 billion to compensate victims.
How Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Kentucky?
Asbestos found in coal mines has put workers in direct danger for decades. Most of the equipment used in coal mines, such as exhaust fans, drilling machinery, and other machines, were also made with asbestos due to its fire and heat-resistant properties.
In addition to coal miners, numerous Kentucky teachers and students risked exposure because of buildings constructed with asbestos. Georgetown College was discovered to have asbestos scattered throughout its residences when in 2011, a leak in one of the pipes put several students at risk.
Other schools in Kentucky known to have contained or to still have asbestos include:
- Carroll County High School, Carrollton
- Elizabethtown High School, Elizabethtown
- Burkhead Elementary School, Elizabethtown
- Highlands High School, Fort Thomas
- Johnson High School, Fort Thomas
- Ruth Moyer Elementary School, Fort Thomas
- Ballard High School, Louisville
- Indian Trail Elementary School, Louisville
- Pleasure Ridge Park High School, Jeffersonville
- Klondike Elementary School, Louisville
- Centre College, Danville
- Morehead State College, Morehead
- East Kentucky State College, Richmond
Also at risk were military men and women in the state. Fort Campbell, constructed during the World War II era, used asbestos in machinery, pipes, boiler rooms, and more.
After developing mesothelioma, a Kentucky resident who worked in a military boiler room in Grayson, Kentucky, filed an asbestos lawsuit. He worked around ship boiler parts that contained asbestos.
As a result, the plaintiff received $32 million from the Crane Co., the business responsible for crane manufacturing.
Other workers in the state who may have been exposed on the job include:
- Construction workers
- Plumbers
- Railroad workers
- Sheet metal workers
These are the workers in industries with the highest rates of asbestos exposure.
Which Companies Are Associated with Asbestos in Kentucky?
Chemical Companies
- Mathieson Chemical Company: Brandenburg
- M&T Chemical: Carrollton
- Carbon & Carbon Chemicals Corporation: Kevil
- Hooker Chemical Corporation: South Shore
Railroad Companies
- Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad: Raceland
- Northwestern Railroad: Russell
Power Companies
- Dix Dam Power Plant: Burgin
- Cooper Powerhouse: Burnside
- John Sherman Cooper Power Station: Burnside
- Green River Power Plant: Central City
- East Kentucky Power Corporation: Ford
- Kenneth C. Coleman Power Plant: Hawesville
- Big Sandy Power Station: Louisa
- Louisa Power: Louisa
- Spurlock Powerhouse: Maysville
- TVA Power Plant: Paradise
- Big River Power Company: Sebree
- Tyrone Power House: Tyrone
Ongoing Risks of Exposure to Asbestos in Kentucky
Unfortunately, for residents of Kentucky, the risk of asbestos exposure is not entirely in the past.
Asbestos Exposure in Older Buildings
Many older buildings throughout Kentucky still contain asbestos. They are a serious risk to individual and public health. The old asbestos materials can deteriorate and contaminate the air. Repairs, renovation, and demolition projects can also disturb asbestos and cause exposure.
In 2022, workers began demolishing the Ashland Oil Building in Ashland. It contained asbestos and other harmful materials and sat unused for years. During that time, it could have released asbestos into the area, putting nearby residents at risk.
Government and public workers in Kentucky are often at risk from asbestos in their workplaces. Firefighters in Taylor Mill are fighting an ongoing battle for a safer firehouse. The older building contains asbestos that has been damaged.
Natural Disasters and Asbestos Exposure
The devastating 2021 tornadoes that hit Kentucky highlighted yet another way residents may encounter harmful asbestos. When natural disasters, like tornadoes, destroy older buildings, they expose and spread asbestos.
The waste left behind puts residents at risk. Those with the greatest risk of exposure, though, are the workers: emergency responders, cleanup crews, and others.
What Are the Criteria for Filing a Mesothelioma Legal Claim?
If you’re considering filing a mesothelioma legal claim, there are specific criteria you need to meet to be eligible. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:
- Diagnosis of Mesothelioma or Related Disease
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other disease linked to asbestos exposure, you may be eligible to file a legal claim. Such diseases are often traced back to unsafe working conditions or environments where asbestos was present. - Family Member or Estate Representative
It’s not just the diagnosed individuals who can seek legal recourse. If you are a family member or the designated estate representative of someone who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may also pursue a claim on their behalf. This includes cases where the individual might be incapacitated or unable to file themselves. - Compensation for Deceased Loved Ones
Even if your loved one has unfortunately passed away due to mesothelioma, you still have the option to seek compensation. The legal system allows for claims to be made on behalf of the deceased to ensure that medical bills, lost income, and other expenses are covered.
Understanding these criteria is essential for determining your eligibility to file a mesothelioma legal claim and could provide critical financial relief and justice for affected individuals and their families.
Laws That Affect Asbestos-Related Lawsuits in Kentucky
State laws determine how asbestos and mesothelioma lawsuits proceed. Your lawyer can explain how these laws might impact your case.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations puts a deadline on filing a lawsuit. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to make sure you get your chance to seek justice and compensation.
- Under Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 413.080 et seq., plaintiffs filing an asbestos-related lawsuit must follow the same statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits.
- In Kentucky, the case must be filed within a year from the date that the asbestos-related disease was discovered or should have been reasonably discovered.
- For wrongful death lawsuits, plaintiffs must file within two years from the date of the victim’s death.
Take-Home Duty and Secondhand Exposure
Secondhand asbestos exposure occurs when a worker unknowingly brings asbestos fibers home on their clothing. This exposes people in the household, some of whom get sick as a result.
Kentucky does not recognize take-home duty, meaning that secondhand asbestos exposure victims cannot sue for damages. Take-home duty, which many states recognize, is the responsibility of a company to warn workers and their families of the risks of secondhand exposure.
What Are the Asbestos Safety Laws in Kentucky?
The Energy and Environment Cabinet’s Division for Air Quality enforces asbestos laws in Kentucky:
- Anyone working on an asbestos abatement project must be qualified by the state prior to starting the project.
- Written notification to the state must be accepted before starting an asbestos abatement project on any public building or facility.
- The only exclusion to the notification rule is single-family, residential homes, and apartment dwellings with fewer than four units.
- Written notification must be received at least 10 working days in advance.
For additional information and more in-depth details concerning asbestos laws in Kentucky, contact Kentucky’s DAQ office at 502-564-3999.
Mesothelioma Treatment in Kentucky
Look for a facility with physicians who specialize in asbestos-related illnesses.
Mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis are rare, so it’s crucial to seek treatment from doctors who specialize in these diseases and have the funding and resources to offer the best possible treatments.
The Markey Cancer Center in Lexington is a National Cancer Institute-designated facility with cutting-edge technology, specialists, and funding to expand the research on rare asbestos diseases.
Comprehensive Support and Resources for Mesothelioma Patients
Being diagnosed with mesothelioma impacts every facet of life, bringing emotional, physical, and financial challenges. However, there’s a range of support and resources designed to help individuals navigate these turbulent times.
Legal Assistance and Financial Relief
Seeking compensation can alleviate some of the financial pressures associated with medical expenses and lost income. Specialized mesothelioma attorneys offer their expertise to manage the legal complexities on your behalf. Many operate on a contingency basis—meaning they only receive payment if your case is successful. This arrangement ensures their services are accessible without upfront costs.
Medical and Emotional Support
Beyond legal help, numerous organizations provide medical guidance and emotional support. Consider reaching out to:
- American Cancer Society: Offers comprehensive information about treatment options and physical support services.
- CancerCare: Provides counseling, support groups, and educational workshops for cancer patients and their families.
- Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation: Connects patients with the latest research and treatment options, as well as peer support networks.
Travel and Accommodation Assistance
Traveling for treatment can be daunting, but numerous programs offer aid with logistics:
- Joe’s House: A resource for finding lodging nearby treatment centers.
- Corporate Angel Network: Provides free air travel for cancer patients traveling to treatment.
Your Path Forward
By leveraging these resources, you can focus on your health and spend quality time with loved ones. Support is available every step of the way, ensuring that you’re not alone in this journey.
-Jingjing Z.
People in this company are friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. They quickly answered all my questions and patiently walked me through the case and any open issues. I so appreciate their diligence and patience during this challenging time.
Legal Help in Kentucky
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. If you have questions or need assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.
