Mesothelioma devastates families, leaving them with emotional turmoil and massive financial losses. This is wholly unacceptable, especially in light of the dangers of asbestos and the innocence of individuals who unknowingly put themselves in harm’s way by simply reporting to the shipyard or paper mill where they worked. That’s why if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, then you need to take action, and you need to do it quickly. After all, the law has a short window during which legal claims related to mesothelioma can be filed.
Negotiating a mesothelioma claim
Once you take legal action, there’s probably going to come a point where a settlement offer is made to you or your loved one. Before accepting one of these settlements, you need to carefully analyze its terms to determine if accepting it is really in your or your loved one’s best interests. Here’s what you need to look at:
- The damages caused: This sounds simple enough, especially when you consider medical expenses and lost wages that have been incurred, but mesothelioma cases are about much more than financial losses. You should carefully consider how mesothelioma has caused you or your loved one pain and suffering and stripped you or your loved one of enjoyment of life. There’s a lot to take into account here, but you’ll want to be as detailed and as thorough as possible when discussing how this disease has impacted your or your loved one’s life.
- The amount offered: Once you calculate your damages, take a look at the offer. Is it close? If not, then going to trial might be right for you or your loved one.
- The evidence: Before deciding to go to trial, though, you’ll want to look at the evidence. To succeed at trial you’ll need strong evidence of causation, meaning that working for the employer in question caused asbestos exposure and thus mesothelioma. An attorney can help you assess your situation in this regard.
- How quickly to move on: Legal proceedings take time to complete, and we know that time is of the essence for those affected by mesothelioma. A lot of people who accept a settlement do so in order to secure quick resolution and to move on with a renewed focus on those who have been impacted. Carefully ask yourself what you want for the future before signing off on a settlement.
Legal help is here for you
We know that dealing with the legal realities of mesothelioma can be stressful, and their importance can pale in comparison to spending time with your loved ones. But legal action is crucial. Not only does it help you find accountability, but it might also set you and your family up with the financial stability that is needed and deserved. If you’d like to learn more about pursuing one of these claims, then now is the time to reach out to a results-driven law firm like ours.