Hardly anyone would dispute that science and technology have made extravagant leaps in recent decades. The progress is quite astounding. Yet, in spite of medical advancements, however, we have still not found a cure for cancer. This terrible disease continues to weigh heavily on the hearts and minds of people across America and the world. In the worst cases, people do not realize that their fate is sealed until it is too late. Cancer caused by asbestos exposure can spread very quickly, and cause substantial damage. Without a definitive cure, cancer is one of the deadliest threats to human health.
One particularly deadly type of cancer, namely mesothelioma, is caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally in metamorphic and igneous rocks. For much of the 20th Century, it was used as fireproofing and insulating material in commercial and residential buildings. Although this was then the primary use of asbestos, it also was used in other industries.
Until 1985, Union Carbide, a California company, was a supplier of asbestos to companies that manufactured and marketed products to be used in the construction industry. According to lawyersandsettlements.com, Union Carbide’s asbestos-containing materials were shipped to thousands of households on the West Coast, including 200 in the Los Angeles area. During a thirty-year period between 1964 and 1994, Mr. Izell worked as a building inspector. It is alleged that throughout this time he was exposed to asbestos. As a result, he developed mesothelioma and died before his attorneys could reach an adequate settlement. About one year ago, Izell’s estate settled with Union Carbide for $18 million. The settlement money was intended to account for both compensatory and punitive damages.
If you or a loved one have developed a severe illness due to exposure to asbestos-laden materials, you may be entitled to significant money damages.
Call 617-787-3700 or email info@gilhoylaw.com to set up your no-cost legal consultation with one of our Boston asbestos injury attorneys. Your needs are our top priority!
