Asbestos exposure in the Army has been a disturbing issue for decades. Thousands of men and women proudly served their country, only to succumb to diseases directly linked to this deadly material. A Chicago asbestos attorney is standing by to help if you or someone close to you developed an asbestos-related disease after serving in the Army or any other US military branch.
Asbestos Exposure Came in Many Forms
Service members have faced significant asbestos exposure while serving in the Army, both domestically and internationally, due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials in military facilities, vehicles, and equipment.
Here’s a closer look at how service members suffered asbestos exposure while in the Army.
The Army commonly used asbestos-containing materials in constructing and maintaining its facilities, including barracks, mess halls, administrative buildings, and training facilities. Service members engaging in construction, renovation, or repair activities encountered exposure to asbestos fibers from insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, and other building materials.
Maintenance personnel responsible for HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical work, and structural repairs may have encountered asbestos-containing materials during their duties.
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
Army vehicles, including tanks, trucks, jeeps, and armored personnel carriers, all contained asbestos in their insulation, brake linings, gaskets, and seals. Service members assigned to vehicle maintenance and repair units were exposed to asbestos fibers while servicing, repairing, and replacing brakes, clutches, and other components containing asbestos. Airborne asbestos dust and fibers generated during these activities posed inhalation risks to mechanics and other personnel working near asbestos-containing parts.
Aircraft Maintenance and Repair
Personnel assigned to aircraft maintenance and repair units encountered exposure to asbestos fibers during aircraft components’ inspection, repair, and refurbishment. Maintenance tasks such as removing and replacing insulation, wiring, and seals can release asbestos fibers into the air, exposing personnel to inhalation hazards.
Training Exercises and Field Operation
Soldiers participating in training exercises and field operations may have encountered asbestos-containing materials in temporary facilities, equipment, and infrastructure deployed in remote or austere environments. Tents, shelters, vehicles, and other temporary structures may have contained asbestos insulation, flooring, or other materials, posing exposure risks to personnel conducting operations or training exercises in these environments.
Combat and Deployment Exposures
Service members deployed to conflict zones or deployed overseas may have encountered asbestos-containing materials in military facilities, vehicles, and infrastructure in theater. In addition to occupational exposures, combat operations, environmental, and infrastructure conditions may have contributed to asbestos exposure risks during deployments.
How an Attorney Can Help Hold Asbestos Companies Accountable for Their Negligence
Tragically, an average of 1,800 veterans – men and women who served in all branches of the US military – die each year of asbestos-related diseases.
Legal action allows people to hold the parties responsible for their asbestos exposure in the Army accountable for their negligence or wrongdoing. Defendants may include asbestos manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, or other entities that provide asbestos-containing materials to the military. By seeking legal recourse, Army members can seek justice for the harm caused to them and their families.
An attorney can be crucial in holding asbestos companies accountable for their negligence in exposing individuals to asbestos and failing to warn them about the associated health risks. These are just a few of the many ways an attorney can support you in seeking justice:
The Initial Consultation and Investigation
An experienced asbestos attorney can help you evaluate your case to determine liability and assess the strength of your claim. Once they agree to take your case, they’ll get to work gathering evidence of asbestos exposure, identifying the responsible parties, and evaluating the extent of the damages suffered by the client.
They’ll also review your medical records, service history, and other relevant documents. Your lawyer can also depose witnesses and gather other information to support your case.
Experience
Asbestos litigation involves complex legal issues, including product liability, negligence, and personal injury law. An attorney specializing in asbestos cases has the knowledge to handle whatever complications might arise in yours.
Identifying Responsible Parties
Asbestos exposure in the Army often involves multiple parties, including manufacturers, suppliers, and others. Your lawyer will work to identify all potentially liable parties and hold them accountable for their role in causing your disease.
Filing Lawsuits and Claims
Your lawyer will file lawsuits or claims against the responsible parties on your behalf. This may include filing individual or class action lawsuits or claims with asbestos trust funds established by bankrupt asbestos companies.
Litigation and Trial Advocacy
Most cases involving asbestos exposure in the Army settle out of court. However, your lawyer will be ready to argue your case in court if yours doesn’t. They’ll present evidence, examine witnesses, and argue legal points before a judge and jury to secure a favorable verdict.
Please remember that you won’t be suing the US Army or any other military branch, nor will you be suing any US government agency. You’ll be taking action against the greedy corporations who profited off of asbestos with full knowledge of its dangers.
Why Servicemembers Should Consider Taking Legal Action
Asbestos exposure in the Army can have devastating health consequences, including the development of severe and often fatal diseases such as mesothelioma lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Army members exposed to asbestos during their military service have compelling reasons to consider pursuing legal action against those responsible for their exposure. Here are two of the biggest.
Seek Compensation for Damages
Legal action enables Army members to seek compensation for the damages they have suffered due to asbestos-related diseases. Pursuing compensation through a legal claim can provide financial relief to affected individuals and their families, helping cover medical care costs and support during a difficult time.
Peace of Mind
Legal action can also provide Army members with a sense of closure and peace of mind, knowing they’re taking proactive steps to seek justice and accountability for their asbestos exposure. By asserting their legal rights and advocating for their interests, Army members can assert control over their situation and work toward achieving a favorable outcome in their case.
Hire Your Asbestos Attorney Today
If you’re suffering the effects of asbestos exposure in the Army, please don’t hesitate to contact a skilled asbestos lawyer. The sooner you do, the sooner they can work to facilitate your pursuit of the compensation you deserve.
