If you or a loved one has an asbestos-related illness in Enola, you may qualify for compensation for medical costs, lost income, and suffering. However, proving that your illness is directly linked to asbestos exposure can be challenging. The experienced injury lawyers at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe in Enola, PA, are here to help you gather the evidence you need and pursue the justice you deserve.
What You Need to Know About Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and other industries throughout the 20th century. Its heat-resistant properties made it popular for insulation, flooring, roofing, and pipe coverings. However, it wasn’t until much later that the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure became widely recognized.
Inhaling or ingesting microscopic asbestos fibers can cause serious illnesses, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. These diseases often take decades to develop, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact source of exposure. Workers in Enola’s industrial sites, construction projects, schools, and public buildings may have unknowingly been exposed to asbestos for years.
Key Elements for Proving Asbestos-Related Illness
Successfully proving that your illness is linked to asbestos exposure requires a combination of medical and factual evidence. Here’s what you’ll need to establish:
Documented Diagnosis
The first step is obtaining a precise medical diagnosis. Your doctor must confirm that you have an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer. This typically involves imaging tests, biopsies, and pathology reports that demonstrate the presence of asbestos fibers in the body or lung tissue abnormalities consistent with asbestos exposure.
History of Exposure
Next, you must establish when, where, and how you were exposed to asbestos. This may include:
- Employment records showing you worked at sites where asbestos was present (such as Enola’s industrial facilities or older construction sites)
- Witness testimony from former coworkers or supervisors who can confirm asbestos use at your job site
- Product identification records, such as receipts, invoices, or material safety data sheets, showing the presence of asbestos-containing materials
Causation
It’s not enough to show that you were exposed to asbestos; you must also link that exposure to your illness. This may require testimony from medical experts who can explain how the exposure caused or contributed to your condition. They may review your medical history, occupational records, and pathology reports to establish a clear connection.
The Importance of Timely Legal Action
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing an asbestos-related injury claim is usually two years from the date of diagnosis. If you wait too long to take legal action, you may lose your right to seek compensation. As such, it’s essential to consult with our seasoned Enola asbestos injury lawyers as soon as possible.
How an Experienced Injury Attorney Can Help
Navigating an asbestos claim is challenging, especially when you’re dealing with a serious illness. Our knowledgeable asbestos injury lawyers understand the challenges you’re facing. We’ll work tirelessly to:
- Investigate your exposure history and gather valuable evidence.
- Consult with medical and occupational experts to build a strong case.
- Handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies and defendants.
- Fight for the maximum compensation available to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact an Asbestos Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness in Enola, don’t wait to seek legal help. Call (717) 229-6580 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your rights, and develop a plan to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.