Paducah Mesothelioma Lawyer
At Bryant Law Center P.S.C., we understand the impact mesothelioma can have on individuals and families. We are here to provide compassionate legal support and aggressive representation to help you navigate through this difficult time. To arrange a free consultation today with a Paducah personal injury lawyer, call (270) 550-1230 or message us online.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), but it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) and other areas like the heart (pericardial mesothelioma) in rare cases. The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral once commonly used in construction, insulation, and other industries. The symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to appear after exposure, making early diagnosis and legal representation crucial for those affected. Here are the common symptoms:
Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs)
Persistent dry or raspy cough
Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
Chest pain, tightness, or discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Lumps under the skin on the chest
Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen)
Abdominal pain or swelling
Unexplained weight loss
Nausea and vomiting
Change in bowel habits
Swelling or lumps in the abdomen
Fatigue or weakness
Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart)
Chest pain
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
Difficulty breathing
Fatigue or weakness
Where is Mesothelioma Common in Kentucky?
Kentucky has a history of industries that heavily relied on asbestos, such as mining, construction, and manufacturing. As a result, mesothelioma cases are relatively common in certain regions of Kentucky where asbestos exposure was more prevalent. Workers in industries like coal mining, vermiculite processing plants, power plants, shipbuilding, construction sites, and automotive manufacturing faced higher risks of asbestos exposure, especially before federal regulations were enacted in the 1970s.
What if my Employer is Responsible for Exposure to Asbestos?
If your mesothelioma diagnosis is linked to asbestos exposure in the workplace, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical bills, partial lost income, and more. Kentucky’s workers’ compensation laws and regulations are in place to protect workers who have suffered occupational illnesses while on the job. Additionally, if your exposure to asbestos was caused by working with products manufactured by third parties, any company involved in the product’s distribution chain can be liable. Meaning you have the right to file a lawsuit for further compensation beyond workers’ comp.
Proving Negligence in a Mesothelioma Case
If you were exposed to asbestos years or even decades ago and have now been diagnosed with mesothelioma, proving the connection between your exposure and the disease can be a complex but crucial process. You will need to gather evidence related to your past employment or any other instances of asbestos exposure. This may involve obtaining employment records, testimonies from coworkers, and documentation of the presence of asbestos in your work environment. Additionally, medical records and expert testimony from qualified healthcare professionals and asbestos exposure specialists can play a vital role in establishing the link between your exposure and the development of mesothelioma. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer will work with you to gather evidence, identify responsible parties, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Kentucky’s Asbestos Laws and Regulations
Kentucky has specific laws and regulations concerning asbestos use and abatement to protect public health and safety.
Kentucky Division for Air Quality (DAQ)
The Kentucky Division for Air Quality is responsible for overseeing and enforcing the asbestos regulations within the state. They require notification and proper abatement procedures when handling asbestos-containing materials during building renovations or demolitions. The state must be notified 10 days or more in advance of an asbestos abatement project and workers handling or abating asbestos must be trained and certified.
Statute of Limitations
If you are considering filing a lawsuit related to asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, it is essential to be aware of the statute of limitations in Kentucky. This limits the amount of time you have to file a claim to one year after being diagnosed with the disease.
Contact Bryant Law Center Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact Bryant Law Center P.S.C. Our compassionate and dedicated mesothelioma lawyers in Paducah will help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.