Asbestos lawsuits have a strong association with certain careers. Shipbuilders, mechanics, construction professionals and manufacturing employees are often at risk of asbestos exposure. The products or raw materials they handle at work may expose them to asbestos. People who can clearly connect their illness to prior job responsibilities may have grounds to take legal action.
Can those who didn’t directly work with asbestos also pursue litigation because of asbestos-related illnesses?
Secondhand exposure is a known concern
For decades, researchers have studied the impact that asbestos has on the human body. The results of that research are alarming. There is no safe threshold for asbestos exposure.
Even secondhand exposure caused by the particulate matter carried home on the skin, clothing and hair of a professional can be enough to sicken their family members. People who had household members who worked with asbestos may have grounds for litigation if they develop an illness later.
Dangerous products also sicken people
Asbestos sometimes turns up in unexpected places. Health and beauty products, including makeup targeted to children, sometimes contain asbestos.
The people who use these products may end up sick through no fault of their own. When companies don’t carefully source raw materials and test finished products for known risks, they may be liable for the harm that they cause.
A toxic tort, which is a type of personal injury lawsuit, may be possible after exposure to asbestos causes severe illness. Consumers and those exposed due to poor company practices may have grounds for litigation. Reviewing a diagnosis with a skilled legal team can help people determine if they have the option of taking legal action.
