VA Toxic Exposure Lawsuits
VA Disability Lawyers Investigating Air Force Base Asbestos Exposure On Behalf of Veterans Nationwide
Asbestos was used to insulate and strengthen aircraft components as well as fireproof base buildings, placing Air Force veterans at risk of developing mesothelioma and other cancers. Air Force Base asbestos exposure is far more common than previously thought, and every year, new cancer cases are diagnosed.
Like other arms of the military, the Air Force relied on asbestos and other toxic materials up until the 1980s. Asbestos-containing products were used to build aircraft, and many veterans were heavily exposed during their service.
Our toxic exposure lawyers have filed numerous claims on behalf of American veterans, because we believe that our nation’s servicemen deserve to be compensated for any adverse health condition related to their time serving our country. We can assist you and your family to build a case, guide you through the complex process, and negotiate for the maximum payout possible.
We understand the unique challenges air force veterans are facing many years after completing their service, and suddenly falling ill due to exposure to a toxin years ago. These can be trying times for you and your family, and you should find an experienced and trusted attorney to take the lead and allow you to focus on your health and family. Read on, and explore our site to learn more about filing VA Disability Claims as well as how to file Air Force Base Asbestos Lawsuits.
How Did Air Force Base Asbestos Exposure Occur?
After WWII and up until the 1970s, asbestos was used in the construction of air force bases in training facilities, mess halls, housing and barracks, and ammunition storage. The toxic materials were used in the insulation, floor tiles, cement and roofing tiles. The Air Force also used asbestos aircraft parts in airplane brakes, electrical insulation, as well as cockpit and engine shields.
Military personnel could have been regularly exposed to toxins on vehicles, equipment, buildings and aircraft. Being around any renovated building was also a high-risk situation. When asbestos is disturbed, it can create a fine dust that can be inhaled. These fibers can remain in the body for many years.
Studies have shown that chronic exposure to asbestos can increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other nonmalignant lung and pleural disorders. Asbestosis, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer and other lung diseases are linked to heavy toxic exposure.
What Kind of Damages Are Available in an Air Force Asbestos Cancer Claim?
In a military asbestos exposure lawsuit, plaintiffs and veterans may seek compensation and benefits to address the physical, emotional, and financial challenges they face as a result of falling ill years after serving their country. Our clients have filed complaints and have sought the following damages:
-
Long-term Disability: Any Air Force Veteran diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease can qualify for significant long-term VA disability compensation. The exact amount of what is paid out is typically dependent on the severity of your condition, and whether or not your condition allows you to work into the future.
-
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): In asbestos-related disability cases, victims are usually eligible for a special monthly compensation, which provides increased financial aid to help pay for medical costs, treatment, medications, rehab and therapy.
-
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): Surviving spouses, children, or dependents of veterans who have passed away due to asbestos-related illnesses may be eligible for DIC benefits to provide financial stability for the family.
-
Medical Costs & Health Care: Vets diagnosed with lung diseases linked to toxic exposure at a base may receive medical care through the VA healthcare system, and possibly additional compensation if the VA hospitals in your region cannot provide the services you require.
-
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Services: For veterans who are unable to viably stay employed or enter the work force, the VA provides vocational rehabilitation services to help them train and acquire new relatable occupational skills.
Why Hire The Lyon Firm?
It is important to do your research before signing on with any one law firm. This is a critical decision, and it is prudent to select an attorney you are comfortable with. Call our legal team to learn more about our experience and past results in similar cases.
Joe Lyon has 20 years of experience handling toxic exposure cases, and has represented military veterans in asbestos exposure claims. We have settled claims for six and seven figures, and we aim to reach a fast and significant compensation settlement on your behalf.
What Does an Asbestos Exposure Lawyer Do for You?
Your legal team will play a critical role in helping you navigate through the process. By taking the next step, and filing a complaint, you can seek compensation for your illness, injury, pain and suffering and reduced quality of life. We will assume all of the following tasks on your behalf:
-
Investigating Toxic Exposure: To build a case, we must prove that you were exposed to asbestos or another toxin, and prove that the specific exposure led to the development of a certain illness. Your attorney and the industry experts we hire will work to gather evidence to support your case. We review medical records, employment history, witness statements, and expert testimony to establish the link between your asbestos exposure and your medical condition.
-
Negotiating a Settlement: An experienced attorney is skilled in negotiations with asbestos trust funds and VA officials to reach a fair settlement.
-
Full Legal Representation: If a settlement is not reached through an initial negotiation, your attorney will represent you in court during the litigation process, advocating for your rights and presenting your case before a judge and jury of your peers.
-
Asbestos Trust Fund Claims: If applicable, your lawyer will identify all the toxic products you were exposed to, and file claims with the associated asbestos trust. These funds have been established to compensate victims of asbestos exposure when the responsible companies have gone bankrupt or were restructured to deal with extensive liability.
-
VA Disability Claims: We can present a strong case to the Department of Veterans Affairs, helping you secure the full benefits you deserve.