Skip to main content

American Shipbuilding Company and Asbestos Exposure

Exposed to asbestos while working in shipbuilding? Our firm can fight for you.

Request a No-Cost & Confidential Consultation
Nationwide Success

Investigating American Shipbuilding Workers’ Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer Claims

Working in shipyards meant long, grueling hours of hard work, often without knowing the hidden risks around you. For many shipbuilders and sailors, that risk was asbestos. Years later, too many people are now facing serious illnesses like mesothelioma or asbestosis because of it.

Super Lawyers Badge

Navigating the complex waters of asbestos shipbuilding exposure claims requires an attorney with a deep understanding of maritime law and a relentless commitment to justice. 

At The Lyon Firm, we are experienced in representing individuals and their families affected by asbestos exposure in the shipbuilding and maritime industries. With a proven track record of success, we are your dedicated legal partner, determined to secure the compensation and justice you deserve.

Asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, have affected countless shipyard workers, sailors, and their loved ones over the years. Our mission is to stand by your side, hold the responsible parties accountable, and protect your rights.

Our asbestos lawyers provide clear, concise, and compassionate support throughout your case. If you or a loved one has suffered due to shipbuilding asbestos exposure, do not hesitate to contact us online or by calling (513) 381-2333 today.

5 stars

“Really great firm! They were very responsive and respectful. I would highly recommend them!” 

– Elizabeth W. | Client

The History Behind American Shipbuilding and Asbestos

For decades, building ships was a major part of American industry. Shipyards across the country were busy places where thousands of workers built vessels for travel, trade, and war. One of the biggest names in this business was American Shipbuilding, which operated for nearly a century in cities like Cleveland, Lorain, Toledo, Chicago, and Tampa. 

During the height of shipbuilding, especially around World War II, safety standards weren’t what they are today. Asbestos was used almost everywhere on ships.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of tiny, durable fibers. It doesn’t burn, and it can handle very high heat. Because of that, it was once considered an ideal material for construction, especially on ships where fire safety and heat control were major concerns.

Since it was cheap, strong, and could handle high heat, asbestos was used for various purposes, including: 

  • Insulating steam pipes and hot water lines
  • Wrapping boilers and engine parts
  • Lining bulkheads and walls to reduce fire risk
  • Packing around valves and pumps
  • Sealing gaskets and joints
  • Protecting electrical wiring and panels
  • Covering floors and ceilings in work areas
  • Fireproofing doors and hatches

CONTACT THE LYON FIRM TODAY

Please complete the form below for a FREE consultation.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

ABOUT THE LYON FIRM

Joseph Lyon has 17 years of experience representing individuals in complex litigation matters. He has represented individuals in every state against many of the largest companies in the world.

The Firm focuses on single-event civil cases and class actions involving corporate neglect & fraud, toxic exposure, product defects & recalls, medical malpractice, and invasion of privacy.

NO COST UNLESS WE WIN

The Firm offers contingency fees, advancing all costs of the litigation, and accepting the full financial risk, allowing our clients full access to the legal system while reducing the financial stress while they focus on their healthcare and financial needs.

Who Was Most at Risk of Exposure to Asbestos In Shipbuilding?

Since asbestos was abundant in shipbuilding and many of these ships had poor ventilation, many different kinds of workers were exposed to it on a regular basis. Some had direct contact with asbestos materials every day, while others were simply nearby when those fibers were stirred up and released into the air.

Below are some examples of shipyard workers who may have been subjected to asbestos: 

  • Insulators and Pipefitters
  • Welders and Metalworkers
  • Electricians
  • Shipbuilders and General Laborers
  • Maintenance and Cleanup Crews
  • Supervisors and Officers 

Is There a Time Limit for Shipbuilding Asbestos Claims?

Yes, and missing that window could cost you your right to file. In most cases, the statute of limitations is just two years from the time of diagnosis. These claims can be especially tricky, since the asbestos exposure often happened decades ago. In the video below, Joe Lyon, founder of The Lyon Firm, explains how the timeline works and why it’s so important to act quickly.

How Do I Know If I Qualify for an American Shipbuilding Company and Asbestos Case? 

If you worked at or around American Shipbuilding Company and were later diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, you may have the right to file a legal claim.

Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health problems, often many years after the exposure occurred. Common illnesses include:

  • Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
  • Lung Cancer: This life-threatening form of cancer can develop after long-term inhalation of asbestos fibers.
  • Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition caused by scarring from asbestos exposure.

You may qualify for a claim if:

  • You worked at American Shipbuilding Company or in a related shipyard role with regular asbestos exposure.
  • You were diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis.
  • A family member who worked at American Shipyard became sick or passed away from an asbestos-related illness.
  • You lived with someone who worked at American Shipyard and may have been exposed to asbestos fibers they brought home on their clothing.

A 2024 study revealed that 92.2% of asbestos-related diseases were linked to shipbuilding, with mesothelioma making up over 15% of the cases. Other conditions identified included asbestosis, pleural plaques, and lung cancer.

What Does an American Shipbuilding Asbestos Attorney Do for Your Case?

A shipbuilding asbestos exposure attorney plays a crucial role in advocating for individuals and their families who have been affected by asbestos exposure in the shipbuilding and maritime industries. These attorneys have specific knowledge and experience in handling cases related to asbestos-related illnesses.

Here’s what a shipbuilding asbestos exposure attorney can do for your case:

  • Evaluation: The attorney will assess the details of your case, including your asbestos exposure history, the severity of your illness, and the potential liable parties. They will determine the viability of your case and its legal merits.
  • Negotiation: They will negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies, responsible parties, and their legal representatives to secure a fair settlement or compensation for your case. This may include negotiations for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  • Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial. They will represent your interests in court, presenting evidence and arguments to seek the best possible outcome.

Back then, many workers were never warned about the dangers. They weren’t given masks, protective clothing, or any information about the long-term health risks. These workers showed up, did the hard work, and unknowingly risked their lives. 


If this happened to you or someone you love, it’s not too late to take a stand. Reach out to The Lyon Firm today online or by calling (513) 381-2333 to discuss your situation and whether you qualify for a claim.

What Kind of Settlement Can an American Shipbuilding Asbestos Exposure Lawyer Help You Secure?

An American shipbuilding asbestos exposure lawyer can help you secure various types of settlements, compensation, or awards, depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

These settlements aim to provide financial relief for individuals and their families who have been adversely affected by asbestos exposure in the shipbuilding and maritime industries.

Here are some common types of settlements a lawyer can help you pursue:

  • Past and Future Medical Expenses: Related to asbestos-related illnesses, including past and future treatments.
  • Lost Wages and Future Earning Potential: If your ability to work has been compromised.
  • Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional distress caused by the illness.
  • Workers’ Compensation: Depending on your employment status and state regulations, workers’ compensation may provide benefits for medical expenses and lost wages related to asbestos exposure on the job.
  • Class Action or Mass Tort Settlements: In some cases, multiple affected individuals may join class action or mass tort lawsuits against the same negligent party. Lawyers can help secure settlements on behalf of the collective group.

Every asbestos case is different. The amount of money you may receive depends on things like how serious your illness is, who was responsible, the laws in your state, and the evidence available. An experienced shipbuilding asbestos lawyer can help you understand your options, build a strong case, and work to get you the full compensation you deserve.

However, the numbers speak for themselves. One nationwide study by Martindale-Nolo found that people who had a lawyer received an average of $77,600, compared to just $17,600 for those who tried to handle the case on their own.

Having the right legal support can make a big difference.

Why Hire The Lyon Firm

At The Lyon Firm, we understand that behind every asbestos case is a real person, a real family, and a life that has been turned upside down. For nearly 20 years, we’ve stood beside shipyard workers and families who were never warned, never protected, and are now facing the consequences of asbestos exposure.

Our team has worked on some of the most challenging asbestos and toxic exposure cases in the country. We’ve helped build the evidence, shape the arguments, and secure life-changing settlements for people who thought they were out of options, including: 

  • $2.7 Million Settlement: Estate of Steve Thomas v. AK Steel Corporation (2019), for asbestos exposure and mesothelioma from working in the steel mill industry.
  • $2.3 Million Settlement: Estate of William P. Bush v. AK Steel Corporation (2016), for asbestos exposure and mesothelioma from working as a steel mill worker.

If you or a loved one has been affected by asbestos exposure from shipbuilding work, now is the time to talk to someone who knows what to do. Contact The Lyon Firm online or by calling (513) 381-2333 to schedule a 100% free case review today.

FAQs 

What if My Loved One Died Due to an Asbestos-Related Illness?

If you’ve lost a loved one to an asbestos-related illness, you may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim. This legal action can help cover funeral and burial expenses, lost financial support, and compensation for the emotional impact of your loss. An experienced lawyer can determine whether you qualify to take legal action on behalf of your deceased loved one.

Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?

Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. When these fibers are disturbed, they become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs. Once in the lungs, the fibers can become lodged in the lung tissue, where they cause long-term damage. Furthermore, the latency period makes asbestos especially dangerous because it can take decades for symptoms to appear after initial exposure.

What If the Company I Worked for Filed for Bankruptcy?

Many companies that exposed workers to asbestos have filed for bankruptcy due to the number of lawsuits they faced. As part of the bankruptcy process, these companies set up trust funds to compensate victims of asbestos-related diseases. If you worked with asbestos products from these companies, you may be eligible to file a claim with their trust fund for compensation. Even if the company is no longer operating, these funds are still available to help those affected by asbestos exposure.

How Long Will My Shipbuilding Asbestos Claim Take?

The timeline for an asbestos claim can vary depending on several factors. If you file a lawsuit, the process can take several months to a few years. However, if you file a claim through an asbestos trust fund, the process can be quicker, often taking a few months for the trust to review your claim and issue compensation. The complexity of your case, the number of parties involved, and the type of exposure you had can all affect how long the process will take.

Discover the Ways We Can Help

Asbestos Information Center