Average Mesothelioma Settlement: Understanding The Compensation Process
When someone is diagnosed with mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, they may be entitled to compensation from the companies responsible for their exposure. This compensation is usually paid out in the form of a settlement, but the amount can vary greatly depending on several factors.
Factors That Affect Mesothelioma Settlement Amounts
Length of Exposure
The longer someone was exposed to asbestos, the higher their settlement amount is likely to be. Those who were exposed for many years, such as construction workers or shipyard employees, may be entitled to larger settlements than those who were only exposed for a brief period of time.
Type of Mesothelioma
The type of mesothelioma someone has been diagnosed with can also affect their settlement amount. Those with more aggressive forms of the disease, such as epithelioid mesothelioma, may receive larger settlements than those with less aggressive forms.
Medical Expenses
The cost of medical treatment for mesothelioma can be astronomical. Settlement amounts may take into account the medical expenses incurred by the patient, including hospital stays, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments.
Lost Wages
Many mesothelioma patients are unable to work due to their illness. Settlement amounts may include compensation for lost wages, as well as potential future earnings that the patient will miss out on due to their illness.
Location
The location of the lawsuit can also affect settlement amounts. Different states have different laws regarding mesothelioma lawsuits and may award different amounts of compensation for the same case.
Legal Representation
The quality of a patient's legal representation can also play a role in settlement amounts. Experienced mesothelioma attorneys are often able to negotiate larger settlements on behalf of their clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average mesothelioma settlement amount?
The average settlement amount for mesothelioma cases varies widely, but is typically in the range of $1 million to $2.4 million.
How long does it take to receive a mesothelioma settlement?
The length of time it takes to receive a mesothelioma settlement can vary depending on the specifics of the case. Some settlements can be reached quickly, while others may take years to finalize.
Do I need to go to court to receive a mesothelioma settlement?
Not necessarily. Many mesothelioma cases are settled out of court, but some may go to trial if a settlement cannot be reached.
Can I file a mesothelioma lawsuit on behalf of a deceased loved one?
Yes. If your loved one died from mesothelioma, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit on their behalf.
What if I was exposed to asbestos but have not been diagnosed with mesothelioma?
You may still be able to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for potential future medical expenses and lost wages if you were exposed to asbestos but have not yet been diagnosed with mesothelioma.
How do I find a mesothelioma attorney?
You can find a mesothelioma attorney by doing research online or asking for referrals from other mesothelioma patients or support groups.
What if the company responsible for my exposure to asbestos has gone out of business?
You may still be able to file a lawsuit and receive compensation through an asbestos bankruptcy trust, which is set up to compensate victims of asbestos exposure from companies that are no longer in business.
What if I am not sure where or when I was exposed to asbestos?
An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you investigate your exposure history and identify the companies responsible for your exposure.
Pros of Pursuing a Mesothelioma Settlement
One of the biggest benefits of pursuing a mesothelioma settlement is the financial compensation it can provide to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with the illness. Settlements can also hold companies accountable for their role in causing mesothelioma and bring closure to patients and their families.
Tips for Maximizing Your Mesothelioma Settlement
If you are considering filing a mesothelioma lawsuit, there are several things you can do to help maximize your settlement amount. These include hiring an experienced mesothelioma attorney, keeping detailed records of your medical expenses and lost wages, and providing as much information as possible about your exposure history.
Summary
Average mesothelioma settlement amounts can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the length of exposure, type of mesothelioma, medical expenses, lost wages, location, and legal representation. Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit can provide financial compensation and hold companies accountable, but it is important to hire an experienced attorney and keep detailed records to help maximize your settlement amount.
