While comprising just 7% of the population, veterans make up nearly 30% of all mesothelioma cases. The Environmental Working Group estimates that 40,000 veterans have died from exposure to asbestos during their military service.
Many of these veterans were likely unaware of asbestos exposure during their service. The presence of asbestos was almost ubiquitous in ships, aircraft, vehicles, and barracks due to its heat-resistant nature. What followed was the development of a rare and aggressive cancer called mesothelioma. This illness usually attacks the lungs as a result of the exposure.
According to navy veterans mesothelioma lawyer Mona L. Wallace, if you were exposed to asbestos and now suffer from mesothelioma, you may be qualified for Veterans Administration disability benefits that include medical coverage for mesothelioma treatment and supplemental income.
Let’s discuss the steps veterans should take to initiate a mesothelioma claim.
Understanding Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure in Veterans
Mesothelioma and asbestos exposure stand among the foremost risks when talking of dangers to veterans. Many veterans have contracted mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos exposure could happen while working on ships, building, or doing maintenance. Since it takes decades to develop symptoms because of that long latency period, most people usually feel alone and unsure of what is happening to their health.
Having the knowledge about the relationship between a person’s military service and whether or not he or she actually felt like being exposed to asbestos becomes important. You do have support in such a situation. In fact, many other veterans underwent the same experiences and may have had similar concerns.
Awareness created by working side by side can only work in favor of helping everyone.
Eligibility for Mesothelioma Compensation
Many veterans are unaware that they may qualify for compensation in mesothelioma cases brought about by asbestos exposure while on service. If you were in the military and developed mesothelioma, you may be able to apply for financial aid.
This compensation is usually granted to those who have had direct exposure to asbestos in the line of duty or at military installations. Wrongful death lawsuit goes into a case in which one party is held liable for the death of their loved one. Wrongful death cases seek justice and attempt to secure compensation for the deceased person’s family members. According to a wrongful death lawyer in NYC, no amount of monetary compensation will compensate for the loss of a loved one, but a wrongful death lawsuit will help hold those responsible at fault for their acts. A wrongful death claim offers you the opportunity to seek compensation and support for your family’s future.
You don’t have to suffer alone. Many veterans have gotten compensated for this. Finding a lawyer well-versed in veterans’ claims will help you in successfully filing for compensation and guaranteeing that you receive your rightful assistance.
Types of Compensation Available for Veterans
For veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma, different kinds of compensation may be available to cover medical expenses and related costs. One possibility is VA benefits; these can provide some financial help with treatment and daily living expenses.
You may be able to file a claim with the asbestos trust fund established especially for veterans affected by asbestos exposure. You could bring the suit against the companies responsible for your exposure, possibly resulting in a large settlement.
Any one of these options would support you through this tough time, so watertight certainty must be given to investigating every single one of them. Connecting with another veteran who has been through this will help you feel less alone and provide guidance.
The Process of Filing for Compensation
Filing for a mesothelioma settlement could be a terribly terrifying thought for any mesothelioma victim. Begin assembling medical records and collecting papers concerning your years of military service.
Exposure to asbestos is something that must be proven. You want a mesothelioma and veterans lawyer who knows the legal procedure and will make sure that no deadlines are missed.
Upon filing your claim, it must be processed, and the entire thing might take a longer time than anticipated. Ask around and communicate with other vets who have been through this. You and other veterans deserve to have compensation and accommodation.
Resources and Support for Veterans Diagnosed With Mesothelioma
When a mesothelioma diagnosis is involved, you have to know that several resources and support systems exist to help you along the way.
Some of these include the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation or the American Legion, which serve as key information centers, support groups, and networking systems for people who are going through the same thing you are right now.
Depending upon where you live, this puts care in your hands via a VA Hospital with perhaps more veteran-specific resources trying to help out. Take control of the situation and be proactive with your treatment. Reaching out for these groups and resources can help with your treatment and financial issues.
You do have a community ready to walk with you on this journey.
