Seattle Mesothelioma Lawyer

Contact an experienced Seattle mesothelioma lawyer if you’ve been harmed by asbestos. Many early industries in Seattle, such as paper mills and shipyards, used asbestos in the past. Lingering asbestos materials in the city continue to put residents and workers at risk of harmful exposure.

If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos and suffer from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that you may be eligible for significant financial compensation. Fill out our form to get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Seattle, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.

Seattle Asbestos Facts

• The state of Washington had 9,200 deaths related to asbestos exposure from 1999 to 2017.
• Seattle and King County led the state in asbestos deaths in that period, with 1,891.
• Shipbuilding and aircraft manufacturing have long been major industries in Seattle, but they also used asbestos and caused worker exposure.

How Did Chemical Companies Contribute to Asbestos Exposure?

Chemical companies played a significant role in asbestos exposure, particularly through their industrial processes and manufacturing practices. Here’s how they contributed:

• Use of Asbestos in Production: Many chemical companies employed asbestos in their manufacturing processes due to its durability and resistance to heat and chemicals. Asbestos was used to insulate machinery, pipes, and equipment, which, over time, released fibers into the air.
• Workplace Environment: Employees working in chemical plants were often exposed to airborne asbestos fibers. Without adequate protective gear or ventilation systems, workers inhaled these fibers, leading to potential health risks.
• Handling of Raw Materials: In the production of various chemical products, raw materials often contained asbestos components. The handling and processing of these materials without proper safety measures led to increased exposure for workers.
• Legacy of Contamination: Older chemical facilities might have been constructed with asbestos-containing materials. Even after these materials were no longer in use, failure to properly remediate or replace them with safer alternatives resulted in prolonged exposure risks.

These practices not only affected the workforce but also had implications for environmental contamination, impacting surrounding communities. Understanding these historical practices helps underscore the importance of stringent safety measures and regulations in the chemical industry today.

How Were Power and Electric Companies Involved in Asbestos Exposure?

Power and electric companies played a significant role in asbestos exposure due to their extensive use of asbestos-containing materials. Here’s how:

• Insulation Needs: Asbestos was prized for its exceptional insulating properties and resistance to heat. Power plants, needing effective insulation for turbines, generators, and electrical wiring, often utilized asbestos to prevent heat loss and reduce fire risk.
• Exposure Risks: Employees working in these environments frequently handled or were in the vicinity of asbestos products. This put them at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers, which could lead to serious health issues such as asbestosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma over time.
• Product Application: Beyond insulation, asbestos was used in various equipment and structural components, including boilers, pipes, and electrical panels. This widespread application meant that many areas within power facilities posed potential exposure hazards.
• Historical Context: Prior to stricter regulations, asbestos use was pervasive in the industry. Companies did not always provide adequate protection or warnings about the risks associated with asbestos, leading to occupational exposure.

In essence, power and electric companies contributed to asbestos exposure through widespread use in insulation and equipment, impacting workers’ health due to prolonged exposure over years.

Do I Need a Seattle Mesothelioma Attorney?

If you have a mesothelioma diagnosis, you need a top Seattle or Washington mesothelioma lawyer. Mesothelioma almost always results from negligent workplace asbestos exposure. You need an experienced asbestos attorney to help hold asbestos companies accountable.

How Will a Seattle Mesothelioma Lawyer Help Me?

The right mesothelioma lawyer in Seattle will be able to do several things to help you during this difficult time:

• Explain your legal options for seeking compensation
• Recommend the best course of action
• File a claim or lawsuit on your behalf
• Provide investigators and medical experts to find evidence and build a strong case
• Negotiate a fair settlement and ensure you get it quickly
• Litigate your case in court if necessary
• Come to you if you are too ill to travel
• Provide contingency payment, so you pay nothing until they win

Challenges in Litigating a Mesothelioma Case

Litigating a mesothelioma case can be quite complex due to a variety of factors. Here’s what you might face:

1. Establishing Exposure: One of the primary challenges is proving where and when the asbestos exposure occurred. Because symptoms can take decades to appear, pinpointing the exact source can be difficult.
2. Identifying Responsible Parties: Over the years, many companies that used asbestos may have merged, rebranded, or ceased operations. Tracking down the correct party accountable for the exposure adds another layer of complexity.
3. Scientific and Medical Evidence: You’ll need solid medical documentation connecting the exposure to the diagnosis. Mesothelioma has specific latency periods, and thorough medical records are crucial for making a direct link.
4. Legal Complexity: Mesothelioma cases often involve intricate legal processes. Navigating state and federal regulations, knowing which legal precedents apply, and handling vast amounts of documentation require expertise.
5. Resource-Intensive Litigation: These cases demand significant resources in terms of time and money. Expert witnesses, medical testimony, and specialized legal counsel are vital, but they also contribute to the overall cost and length of the litigation process.

Each case is unique, and understanding these challenges can help you prepare better for the road ahead. Professional legal assistance is essential to navigate these hurdles effectively.

Get a Free Legal Consultation

It’s important to act fast with asbestos claims. There are time limits on filing. Your illness is likely severe, which also limits your time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a Seattle asbestos firm or lawyer to get a free initial consultation. You shouldn’t have to pay any fees to talk to a lawyer and get some initial advice. They will review your case and explain your legal options. There is no obligation to go further.

After a mesothelioma diagnosis, you’re faced with emotional distress and daunting financial challenges. Seeking justice for asbestos exposure is a crucial step. A qualified attorney can guide you through the process of securing compensation for both the financial and emotional tolls of the illness.

• Understand Your Legal Rights: An experienced lawyer can assess where and how your asbestos exposure occurred, and how it impacts your life now and in the future.
• Seek Compensation: Addressing treatment costs, lost wages, and family support is essential. Legal representation can help you pursue the financial relief you deserve, ensuring peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

Act quickly to explore your legal avenues. By consulting with a dedicated asbestos attorney, you can take the first step towards safeguarding your future and receiving the care you need.

Seattle, Washington, Mesothelioma Settlements and Verdicts

One of the most common questions clients have for their asbestos lawyers is how much compensation they can expect to get in a mesothelioma claim. Lawyers cannot promise a specific amount, but they have the expertise to make a reasonable estimate and maximize their clients’ compensation.

Compensation depends on various factors individual to each case. These are some examples of what Seattle lawyers have been able to recover for their asbestos clients:

• A jury in King County recently awarded a woman’s estate $3.5 million for her death from mesothelioma. Ramona Brandes’s father worked at ARCO Cherry Point refinery and brought asbestos home on his clothing. Ramona was exposed to those fibers and later developed mesothelioma.
• Another King County jury awarded the wife of Kevan Holdsworth $16.67 million for his death from mesothelioma. Holdsworth worked at a paper mill where he was exposed to asbestos in dryer felts.
• A federal jury in Seattle awarded Henry Barabin $10.2 million for a mesothelioma diagnosis. He worked at Crown Zellerbach Paper Mill and used asbestos materials on the job.

Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos in Seattle?

Seattle has a long history with industries that used asbestos in the past and exposed workers. These are just some of the industries and workplaces where you might have been exposed to asbestos in the area.

Seattle Shipyards

As an important port city on the west coast, Seattle has a long history of shipbuilding and repair. The shipyard industry has employed thousands of residents, putting many at risk of asbestos exposure.

• Established in the early 1940s, the Duwamish Shipyard became one of the largest shipyards in Seattle. Workers here handled asbestos as it went into nearly every part of every ship, including in the steam pipes, steam drums, heaters, engine rooms, building materials, and insulation.
• The Todd Pacific Shipyards Seattle Division was formed in 1916 as a dry dock construction and shipbuilding company. It provided many jobs to Seattle residents, but it also caused asbestos exposure.
• Lockheed Shipyard was another Seattle ship construction company with a history of heavy asbestos use. From the 1930s until the mid-1980s, thousands of workers were exposed to asbestos in equipment, machinery, pipes, tools, and more.

Aircraft Manufacturing

Seattle is also a major aircraft manufacturing city. The Boeing Company, now headquartered in Chicago, was founded in Seattle in 1916 and still has a significant presence near the city.

The company’s Commercial Airplanes division is headquartered in nearby Reston, where a large factory builds airliners such as the 777 Dreamliner. Boeing is a major supplier of aircraft for the U.S. military.

From World War I to the present, the company has built combat and support aircraft of all types for the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps.

Military service in Washington state, particularly around Seattle and its extensive naval stations, army bases, and air bases, has historically involved significant exposure to asbestos. This material was widely used in military infrastructure and equipment for its fire-resistant properties.

Servicemembers stationed at these locations often encountered asbestos in various forms, from shipyards to aircraft maintenance facilities. The widespread presence of this hazardous material in military settings underscores the potential health risks faced by those who served in Washington.

For veterans, understanding the historical use of asbestos is crucial, as it informs health monitoring and decisions related to service-related health claims. These factors are essential for those who may have been exposed during their military careers.

As in the shipbuilding industry, the use of asbestos by Boeing and other aerospace manufacturers is now minimal.

At one time, Boeing used asbestos in many of its parts and materials. Until 1981, many military and civilian aircraft made in the U.S. Used asbestos in engine insulation, wiring, adhesives, electrical insulation, and brake pads. Factory workers and maintenance personnel who built or repaired planes built before 1981 are at high risk for asbestos exposure.

In addition to aircraft, asbestos was commonly used in various materials found in buildings due to its heat-resistant properties. Some of these materials include:

• Heat-Resistant Fabrics: Often used in protective clothing and fireproofing applications.
• Pipe Coating: Used to insulate pipes and prevent heat loss or gain.
• Wall Insulation: Integrated into walls to improve thermal efficiency and fire resistance.
• Floor Tiles: Incorporated in flooring for durability and fireproofing.
• Roofing and Siding Shingles: Applied to enhance weather resistance and fire protection.

Understanding the widespread use of asbestos in both aviation and construction sectors highlights the pervasive nature of its applications. Awareness of these common materials is crucial for identifying potential exposure risks in both older aircraft and buildings.

Additional Job Sites Associated with Asbestos in Seattle

As Seattle grew, many industrial job sites cropped up and used asbestos for decades. Construction of buildings also used asbestos, and many buildings still contain asbestos materials. Workers in the construction industry, especially those involved in building, renovating, or demolishing older structures, may have been exposed to asbestos fibers. This exposure often occurred when asbestos-containing materials were disturbed, releasing tiny fibers into the air.

Individuals who worked in environments with inadequate safety measures were particularly at risk. Asbestos was commonly used in products such as insulation, roofing, and flooring materials. When these materials were cut, sanded, or otherwise manipulated, the risk of inhaling asbestos fibers increased, potentially leading to serious health issues.

While some construction workers may have been aware of the risks, many were not fully informed of the dangers, resulting in potential long-term health consequences. The legacy of asbestos use still impacts the industry today, with many workers experiencing asbestos-related illnesses. Protecting current workers through proper safety protocols and awareness remains a critical priority.

Schools

• Cleveland High School
• Dearborn Park School
• John Muir Elementary School
• Lincoln High School
• St. Luke School
• Norkirk Elementary School
• Seattle School District
• Shoreline Middle School
• Shoreline Community College
• Forest Ridge Academy

Steam Companies

• Alaska Steam
• Auxiliary Steam Plant
• Olympic Steamship Company

Hospitals

• Children’s Orthopedic Hospital
• Firecrest Mental Hospital
• Harborview Hospital
• King County Hospital
• New Providence Hospital
• Northwest Hospital
• Providence Hospital
• Swedish Medical Center

Shipbuilding

• Associated Shipyards
• Bethlehem Steel Shipbuilding
• Boeing Marine Systems Shipbuilding & Repair
• Lake Washington Shipyards
• Marco Shipyard
• Olympic Steamship Company
• Seattle Shipyard

Other Job Sites

• Naval Supply Depot
• Wheeler Osgood Company
• Under Sea Gardens
• Kaiser Cement
• Sitka Pulp Mill Builders
• Sundfeldt Equipment Company
• Monsanto Chemical Company
• Liquid Carbonic Corporation
• Kaiser Cement
• Automatic Sprinkler Corporation of America
• American Linen Supply Company
• Northern Pacific Railway Company

Could Working in the Gas Industry in Seattle Lead to Asbestos-Related Diseases?

Absolutely, careers in the gas industry in Seattle have historically posed a risk of asbestos exposure. Many facilities that operated in this sector utilized materials containing asbestos. These materials were prized for their heat resistance and durability, making them ideal for use in high-temperature environments like gas plants.

Potential Exposure Areas

Workers in these facilities often encountered asbestos in:

• Insulation for pipes and boilers
• Gaskets and seals
• Protective gear and clothing

Health Risks

This exposure can lead to serious health conditions such as:

1. Asbestosis – A chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers.
2. Lung Cancer – Increased risk primarily linked to long-term exposure.
3. Mesothelioma – A rare but aggressive cancer found in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen.

Historical Context

Throughout much of the 20th century, the use of asbestos was prevalent in many industrial applications. Regulations around its usage have since tightened, but for many workers, especially those involved in maintenance or renovation of older facilities, the risk of exposure remained significant until more stringent safety measures were put in place.

While awareness has improved and regulations have minimized current risks, the legacy of past practices continues to impact former and even current workers in the gas industry.

Absolutely, hotels can indeed be potential sources of asbestos exposure. Many older buildings, including hotels constructed before modern safety regulations, may have used materials containing asbestos. This is often found in insulation, roofing, ceiling tiles, and even flooring.

Structures like hotels that have not undergone significant renovation or asbestos abatement may still harbor these hazardous materials. Renovations or demolitions can disturb asbestos, releasing fibers into the air and potentially posing health risks to guests and staff.

In particular, notable hotels built during the mid-20th century, when asbestos was a common construction material, might still retain some of these older materials. Therefore, it is crucial for these establishments to assess and manage asbestos risks, especially when undertaking remodeling projects. Always ensure you are informed about the age and renovation history of a hotel if concerned about asbestos exposure.

Am I Still at Risk of Asbestos Exposure in Seattle?

Unfortunately, asbestos exposure is still a risk for workers and residents in Seattle. The biggest threat comes from asbestos materials that remain in older buildings. If these materials are disturbed by renovations or deteriorate over time, they can release harmful fibers.

A few recent incidents in and near Seattle highlight the need for concern. An unlicensed asbestos contractor in Bothell was sentenced to jail time after violating safety regulations when working with asbestos in people’s homes.

In Seattle, a house-flipping company was fined $800,000 for asbestos violations. They mishandled asbestos on the job, putting workers and residents at risk of exposure. Neighbors reported the owners to the authorities.

Asbestos is also a concern in public buildings. Parents recently raised concerns about asbestos in a West Seattle elementary school. On Mercer Island, the city hall building closed in the spring of 2023 because materials in some areas tested positive for asbestos.

Mesothelioma Treatment in Seattle

It’s important to seek mesothelioma treatment from specialists in cancer and asbestos-related diseases. The following are highly recommended doctors in the Seattle area specializing in mesothelioma:

• Dr. Eric Vallieres, Swedish Cancer Institute: 1101 Madison Street, Suite 850, Seattle, Washington, 98104
• Dr. Michael S. Mulligan, University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, Washington, 91895

Understanding Mesothelioma: Causes and Implications

Mesothelioma is a serious and often deadly type of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The primary cause of this aggressive disease is exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous mineral. Despite its once-common use across various industries, asbestos is now recognized for its severe health risks.

What Causes Mesothelioma?

1. Asbestos Exposure: The dominant factor leading to mesothelioma is prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. These fibers, when inhaled or swallowed, can become lodged in the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue covering most internal organs. Over time, they cause inflammation and genetic damage, potentially leading to cancer.
2. Occupational Hazards: Many individuals develop mesothelioma after working in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, or manufacturing where asbestos was heavily utilized. As a result, job-related exposure remains a significant concern.
3. Environmental and Secondary Exposure: Although less common, mesothelioma can also occur from environmental exposure to asbestos, such as living near mines or factories. Additionally, secondary exposure happens when family members have contact with asbestos fibers brought home on clothing.

The development of mesothelioma can take decades after asbestos exposure, making it challenging to diagnose early. Unfortunately, as of now, there is no cure, underscoring the importance of early detection and preventive measures in reducing risk.

His meticulous attention to detail and expertise ensured our case was handled swiftly and efficiently. What truly impressed us was Paul’s responsiveness—he was always quick to reply and kept us well-informed throughout.

– Patrick M.

Getting Legal Help in Seattle

Remember, if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for significant compensation. Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on the experienced asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area. If you need additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.