Florida Asbestos Lawyers
Mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related illnesses are frightening and confusing enough without the misinformation and misconceptions that are so often repeated and absorbed into the common dialog about the subject. Asbestos exposure victims deserve the truth can some clarity on the subject. If you have been diagnosed with asbestos injury our Florida asbestos lawyers can help.
Myth: Asbestos has been “Outlawed”
There are some facts behind the confusion about the asbestos ban. We often hear about asbestos removal projects, particularly in schools, and a ban and phase out rule was enacted, but it was later overturned. There are restrictions on the use of asbestos in construction.
The reality is that asbestos is still very much in use. It is in children’s toys, home improvement products, and other everyday household items in stores today.
Myth: Mesothelioma is Lung Cancer
This myth is perpetuated by the fact that the majority of mesothelioma originates in the lining around the lungs, and can eventually spread into the lungs themselves. However, mesothelioma can originate in the mesothelium in other areas of the body, including the abdomen and the sac around the heart. The mesothelium is the membrane which surrounds and protects your internal organs.
Mesothelioma is actually a different type of cancer than lung cancer. There are tests to differentiate between the two, but misdiagnosis still occurs. Proper diagnosis is important to getting the appropriate treatment and has a big impact on your asbestos lawsuit.
Myth: There are Safe Levels of Asbestos
While some regulatory agencies have set “acceptable” levels of asbestos in the air or water, no amount is safe for the human body. Exposure to any amount of asbestos has the potential to cause mesothelioma and kill you.
Myth: Smokers and Former Smokers are not eligible for Asbestos Injury Compensation
While it is believed that smoking can increase your risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses if you have been exposed to asbestos, asbestos is still the cause.
Mesothelioma and asbestosis only occur following asbestos exposure, whether you have smoked or not. Smoking does not cause either of these illnesses and even smokers cannot get them without asbestos exposure. To receive compensation for other cancers caused by asbestos, but not exclusively by asbestos, smokers and former smokers need to show medical evidence that asbestos exposure was the cause.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by asbestos exposure in Florida, please call the Florida asbestos lawyers of Colling Gilbert Wright & Carter or submit an online questionnaire. The initial consultation with our asbestos lawyers is free, and if we agree to represent you, we will work for a contingent fee, which means we won’t get paid for our services unless you receive a settlement or an award. In Florida, an asbestos injury lawsuit must be filed before the expiration of the statute of limitations. Please call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.