A DC asbestos lawyer is a personal injury lawyer that specializes in helping people who have been diagnosed with any of the many diseases and conditions that are often the result of being around exposed asbestos. The three most documented forms of problems from asbestos exposure are lung cancer, mesothelioma (a malignant tumor of the covering of the lung or the lining of them pleural and abdominal cavities), and asbestosis (a lung disease).
Starting at the beginning of the 20th century, asbestos was heralded as a wonder material for building and construction, protective clothing, friction-creating devices, and insulation. It was used to build high end buildings and the most modern and advanced factories. As victims of the health problems that are caused by asbestos exposure continue to come forth to seek recompense for their problems and the devastating effects of this are now more commonly understood, the legal arena has become more accomodating for those who are afflicted with asbestos related diseases, illnesses and other health problems.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a set of six naturally occurring silicate minerals and humans have been mining for it more than 4,000 years ago. Some of its physical properties that made it popular for building are its good sound absorption, average tensile strength, affordability, and resistance to fire, heat, and electricity. Asbestos use grew throughout the 20th century until public knowledge of the hazards of exposed and agitated asbestos causing major health problems, and court legislature, had it banned from being used in mainstream construction and fireproofing in most countries.
In this day and age, the problems that exposure to asbestos and breathing asbestos dust and particles can cause are well-known. In addition to the major problems mentioned above ((lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis) people who are exposed to the material for an extensive period of time may be susceptible to an array of other serious medical issues. Some of these include lung diseases, other cancers, heart and circulation issues, a weakened immune system, and the increased possibility of a stroke or heart attack.
Asbestos is not especially harmful if it is undisturbed but when it is, many of the diseases that it causes ultimately wind up killing those afflicted with them. Asbestos is still used in everyday items such as vehicle brakes and some building supplies. It is now only (legally) used in ways that will not be exposed to people nor will it hurt the people who use things that contain it.
If you or a loved one is suffering because of a sickness or problem related to asbestos exposure, you may find it helpful to talk to a personal injury lawyer who has experience in successfully defending the rights of asbestos exposure victims. The devastating effects that these kinds of health problems can have on a person and those who care about them can be physically difficult for the patient and those taking care of them, as well as emotionally exhausting. When people fall victim to the dangers of asbestos, they may be eligible for compensation.
If you or a loved one may be in need of a highly rated DC asbestos lawyer that Washington DC asbestos victims and their families recommend, contact Cohen & Cohen for a free case evaluation, any time of the day or night, any day of the year.