Oregon Mesothelioma & Asbestos Lawyers
Timber, shipbuilding, and many of Oregon’s other industries, incorporated asbestos in their daily operations, which led to the exposure of numerous workers to this hazardous material. For over 20 years, Bergman Oslund Udo Little’s attorneys in Portland have devoted themselves to supporting those affected by asbestos exposure in Oregon, helping them seek justice against the companies responsible for their injuries.
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Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is prevalent in Oregon due to the historical use of asbestos in many of the state’s industries. A Mesothelioma diagnosis can result in overwhelming medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress for the diagnosee and their loved ones. Unfortunately, many individuals affected by this devastating illness could have avoided it if manufacturers and users had disclosed the hazards of asbestos.
At Bergman Oslund Udo Little, our dedicated asbestos attorneys understand the profound impact of mesothelioma on our community. Our team is dedicated to helping victims in Oregon’s numerous asbestos exposure sites in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, Hillsboro, Bend, Beaverton, Medford, Springfield, Tigard, Corvallis, and more receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to start your claim.
Why Choose Bergman Oslund Udo Little?
Since 1995, our Mesothelioma Attorneys in our Portland law office have represented those harmed by the negligence of asbestos manufacturers. Our client-centric approach means we treat every case like family, providing tailored advocacy and strong legal representation.
Due to the intricate nature of asbestos claims, big manufacturers often fight against the rightful claims of ailing workers, who otherwise would face undue financial hardship on top of their ailments. Despite this, we have a proven track record of securing results for our clients, including:
Our founding attorney Matthew Bergman has represented over 850 mesothelioma clients and is actively involved in legislative efforts to shape asbestos litigation law.
Client Reviews
Matt Bergman and Ruby Aliment were our attorneys to represent and defend my husband’s lawful right to financial compensation from companies in the asbestos industry.
Matt and Ruby provided dedicated, thoughtful, committed service to us, as well as others affected by mesothelioma. Their exceptional dedicated professionalism resulted in successful claims for restitution, which has made a huge difference in the quality of my life. Even though my husband left this world far too young, because of BOUL’s wonderful representation, I am financially secure and able to remain in our dream home…. EXACTLY what my husbnd wanted!
Big kudos to this company and their hardworking caring devoted staff! I would highly recommend this firm!
THANK YOU MATT AND RUBY
I am so graceful!
J.C.
Gina Perez
Randal Colson
Compensation Options for Oregon Asbestos Victims
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Oregon, our lawyers are here to assist you in seeking compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other related damages. We will help you identify where you were exposed to asbestos and which manufacturers are responsible for your exposure. Apart from lawsuits, we can also guide you through alternative compensation options such as asbestos trust fund or VA claims.
Mesothelioma Lawsuits
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you have the legal right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the company or entity responsible for exposing you to asbestos. A successful lawsuit can provide compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In the case that a loved one has passed away from mesothelioma, you can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. This lawsuit can cover medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
Asbestos Trust Funds
Over the years, numerous companies responsible for exposing people to asbestos have declared bankruptcy. However, these companies were required to establish trust funds as part of their bankruptcy reorganization to compensate future victims.
Victims of asbestos exposure and their families can receive compensation by filing a claim against one or more of these asbestos trust funds. This process can save them the time and effort of a lengthy court trial. Every trust has its own set of guidelines and payment schedules. While filing a claim might offer faster compensation than a lawsuit, the amount of compensation could be lower than what is obtained in court.
VA Mesothelioma Claims
Military veterans, especially those who served in the U.S. Navy, may have been exposed to asbestos during their service. If the exposure occurred while in the military, the Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes mesothelioma as a service-connected condition.
- Benefits: Veterans can file a claim for disability compensation, and if they pass away due to the disease, their families might be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
- Health Care: The VA offers specialized health care services for veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma. This includes treatments at VA health care facilities and potential access to clinical trials.
If you have recently received a mesothelioma diagnosis, our team of experienced asbestos attorneys in Oregon is here to help. We understand your unique situation and will work diligently to manage the legal details of your case to ensure that you receive the justice you deserve while you focus on your health and family. Don’t let time limit your rights; contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
How Long Do I Have To File a Claim?
In Oregon, the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit typically starts from the date of diagnosis.
For personal injury claims related to asbestos exposure, you generally have two years from the date of the diagnosis to file a lawsuit.
If the patient has passed away, the family has three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim.
However, laws and regulations can change, and individual circumstances can affect these timelines. It’s essential to contact an Oregon mesothelioma lawyer promptly to understand your specific rights and deadlines.
Asbestos Exposure in Oregon
Most asbestos exposures occurred in the past, but some Oregonians may continue to be exposed through legacy asbestos, which has remained in place since asbestos was in common use. Multnomah County, Clackamas County, and Lane County have the highest numbers annual asbestos-related deaths with the most common asbestos exposure sites include the following:
Shipyards and Drydocks: One of the most common sources of asbestos exposure in the Pacific Northwest, older ships in ports, drydocks, and dismantling facilities are known to carry asbestos in their components. Some notable examples include:
- Portland Ship Repair Yard
- Zidell Ship Dismantling and Marine Supply
Power Plants: Power plants have historically been among the most common asbestos exposure sites. In Oregon, several power plants have been identified as places where workers might have been exposed to asbestos:
- Trojan Nuclear Power Plant
- Boardman Coal Plant
- PGE (Portland General Electric) facilities
Mills, Factories, and Industrial Sites: Due to its insulative and heat-resistant properties, asbestos was used in many applications in paper mills & other factories around Oregon.
- Oregon Pulp & Paper Company
- Crown Zellerbach Paper Company
- Georgia-Pacific Paper Mill
- Western Kraft Corp
- Weyerhaeuser Paper Mill
- Bechtel Corp.
- Union Carbide Corp.
- J.T. Thorpe Company
Schools and Universities: In Oregon, as in many other states, schools and universities constructed before the 1980s often incorporated asbestos-containing building materials.
- University of Oregon
- Oregon State University
Military and Air Bases: Military bases in Oregon historically utilized asbestos in construction and equipment for its heat-resistant properties. Military personnel and workers at these bases may have been at risk for asbestos exposure, especially during maintenance, renovations, or daily operations.
- Umatilla Army Depot
- Portland Air Force Base
Oil Refineries: Asbestos was a popular building material in oil refineries due to its fire-retardant nature. Some known refineries that contain asbestos in Oregon include:
- Texaco Oil Refinery
- Chevron Oil Refinery
Other Areas of Exposure:
- Airport and airline hangars
- Railyards
- Auto manufacturing plants
- Drywall and flooring manufacturing plants
- Sand and gravel producers
- Hospitals
- Hotels
- Office buildings
- Breweries
- Post office facilities
- Warehouses and grocery distribution centers
Oregon Jobs at Risk of Asbestos Exposure
In Oregon, as in many other states, certain jobs and industries historically carried a higher risk of asbestos exposure due to the nature of the work and the materials used. Some of the jobs in Oregon most at risk for asbestos exposure included:
- Shipyard Workers
- Construction Workers
- Power Plant Workers
- Timber, Paper, and Pulp Mill Workers
- Automotive Mechanics
If someone in Oregon believes they were exposed to asbestos during their employment, it’s crucial to monitor their health and consult with a medical professional, especially if they experience any symptoms consistent with asbestos-related diseases.
Occupations that are at high risk of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma in Oregon include pipefitters, boilermakers, insulators, brake mechanics, electricians, construction workers and shipyard workers.
Vanessa Firnhaber Oslund – Partner, Bergman Oslund Udo Little, PLLC
Find Treatment for Mesothelioma in Oregon
Mesothelioma is a rare disease, and most oncologists lack experience treating it. You will get the best results at a facility specializing in mesothelioma treatment. Luckily, there are a number of doctors and treatment centers located in Oregon and Washington.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Oregon Mesothelioma Lawyer Today.
When you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, our compassionate and experienced Oregon asbestos lawyers will be there for you. We will work closely with you so we can understand your needs and goals, fully tell the story of how mesothelioma has impacted you and your family, negotiate settlements, and handle all of your legal details for you.
Don’t let the statute of limitations expire before you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
