It is known that veterans have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma than most of the rest of the population. This is because asbestos was used in every branch of the military from about 1930 to 1980. Over 30 percent of mesothelioma claims each year are from veterans. Our team provides help for veterans with mesothelioma by filing lawsuits, filing claims with asbestos trusts, and helping with Veterans Affairs claims. We have a vast knowledge of how asbestos was used in the military and have represented many individuals who are veterans, namely veterans of the United States Navy.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that forms in the lining of organs within the body. This cancer can begin in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, and testicles. Its only known cause is exposure to asbestos. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in organ lining, leading to inflammation which then can lead to a buildup of scar tissue, potentially resulting in a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Navy Ships and Asbestos Exposure
Navy ships were laden with asbestos, from boiler and engine rooms, to asbestos piping insulation that was used throughout the entirety of the ships, even in the living quarters. Even if you did not directly work on a Navy ship but were sleeping in one, you would have been exposed to asbestos. There were also instances where ships were overhauled, exposing disturbed asbestos fibers to those in the surrounding environment.
Help for Veterans with Mesothelioma Through Lawsuits
It is important to note that when filing lawsuits on behalf of veterans who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the government or the United States military will not be sued. We are very aware of the different manufacturers that supplied products to the United States Navy and other military branches. If these companies are still in business, they are viable defendants in a case.
Asbestos Bankruptcy Claims
Help for veterans with mesothelioma can also come in the form of filing claims with asbestos bankruptcy trusts. We have a team of asbestos trust claims specialists who are very experienced in filing claims with the many trusts. We are able to get you compensation through these trust funds without suing anyone and can avoid any possibility of court.
Compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs
A common way to pursue compensation for a mesothelioma diagnosis, if you are a veteran, is through a VA claim. The VA considers mesothelioma as a disease that is 100% disabling. The disability compensation through the VA qualifies mesothelioma victims to receive $3,831.30 a month if they are single, and $4,044.91 if they are married (as of December 1st, 2024).
In order for a VA claim to be viable there are certain requirements. The veteran with mesothelioma must have been honorably discharged, there must be a summary of the different asbestos exposures, there must be documentation from a doctor stating that the mesothelioma was caused by asbestos exposure, and there must be proof that the veterans military service led to their mesothelioma diagnosis.
If you or a loved one was a member of the United States military and has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, we can help. We provide help for veterans with mesothelioma in a variety of ways and would be happy to help you and your family. For more information and for free resources, please call us at (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form.
Sources:
https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/veteran-rates
https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/asbestos
