Michigan Asbestos Lawyer

Settlement Results & Companies That Exposed Their Workers

Advocates For Michigan Workers

Michigan is known for its rich manufacturing history, from the automotive giants in Detroit to the industrial hubs in Flint and Grand Rapids. While this legacy brought prosperity and growth to the state, it also left behind a dangerous and often hidden threat to workers and families alike—asbestos exposure. Factories, shipyards, and construction sites across Michigan relied heavily on asbestos for its heat resistance and durability, putting countless individuals at risk of future health complications.

If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos in Michigan and have since received a diagnosis of mesothelioma, lung cancer, or another asbestos-related illness, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your medical bills and other losses.

The legal team at Vogelzang Law understands the devastating toll an asbestos diagnosis takes on you and your family. With over 20 years of experience and a proven track record of securing more than $300 million in verdicts and settlements, our firm is here to fight for justice on your behalf. Our compassionate team includes an experienced Michigan asbestos exposure lawyer committed to securing the resources and compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Vogelzang Law for Your Michigan Asbestos Exposure Claim?

At Vogelzang Law, we know that asbestos-related diseases are life-altering, often arising decades after the initial exposure. You don’t just need any law firm; you need one that truly understands the complexities of asbestos litigation and treats you with the respect and care you deserve. Here’s why Vogelzang Law is the right choice for your Michigan asbestos exposure claim:

First and foremost, we are litigators. For over 20 years, we’ve aggressively represented clients across the United States, including many from Michigan. During this time, we’ve learned that every case is as unique as the individual affected. That’s why we approach each claim with personalized attention, digging deep into your work history, exposure risks, and medical records.

We also pride ourselves on the partnerships we build with our clients. This is not just a transaction for us—it’s a relationship. From the initial consultation to navigating the legal process and potential trial, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

When you work with Vogelzang Law, you gain more than experienced attorneys. You gain passionate advocates who will fight tirelessly to hold negligent companies accountable for the harm they’ve caused.

Vogelzang Law has the resources and experience of a large firm but remains dedicated to giving your case the personal attention that only our experienced attorneys can offer. We are fully committed to serving our clients suffering from asbestos-related diseases and obtaining the legal compensation they deserve. Your case will never be part of a class-action lawsuit, and you will never be treated like a case number.

Past Michigan Verdicts and Settlements*:

$3.4 Million – Insulator
$2.7 Million – Industrial Electrician
$1.5 Million – Power Plant Employee
$1.3 Million – Window Glazier
$1.2 Million – Laborer
$504K – Foundry Employee
$282K – Laborer

*Previous results and settlements do not guarantee a similar outcome in your case. Each case is unique and is dependent upon the individual facts and legal issues involved.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used throughout the 20th century in industries like construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. Known for its exceptional resistance to heat, fire, and chemical damage, asbestos became a critical component in thousands of products ranging from insulation to automotive parts. Unfortunately, despite its practical uses, asbestos poses a severe health hazard when its fibers become airborne and inhaled.

When microscopic asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can enter the lungs or other parts of the body, leading to long-term health complications. The dangers of asbestos exposure have been widely documented since the mid-20th century, yet manufacturers continued to use it for decades, disregarding the well-being of workers and the public.

Michigan’s history as a manufacturing powerhouse meant that asbestos was heavily integrated into its factories, power plants, and even homes. Workers in industries like automotive manufacturing, steel production, and construction were particularly vulnerable. Tragically, many were unaware of the dangers until decades later, when they were diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses.

Exposure to asbestos fibers, often decades earlier, can lead to severe and life-threatening illnesses. These conditions profoundly affect individuals and their families, turning everyday life into a battle for health, peace of mind, and justice. Below are the main complications caused by asbestos exposure that Vogelzang Law handles on behalf of our clients.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer directly linked to asbestos exposure. It develops in the mesothelium, a thin tissue lining that protects the lungs, heart, abdomen, and, in rare cases, the testicles. This devastating disease affects approximately 2,000 to 3,000 people in the United States yearly, and Michigan residents are among them.

Mesothelioma often takes decades to develop after initial asbestos exposure, making it challenging to detect until it has reached advanced stages.

While mesothelioma is the disease most commonly associated with asbestos exposure, asbestos can also cause other types of severe lung damage, including lung cancer. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause scarring of the lung tissue, which can eventually lead to the mutation and uncontrolled growth of cells. These resulting tumors can obstruct breathing and spread to other body parts.

Unfortunately, like mesothelioma, lung cancer often doesn’t present symptoms until the disease is in a more advanced stage.

Mesothelioma often takes decades to develop after initial asbestos exposure, making it challenging to detect until it has reached advanced stages.

Not all asbestos-related conditions are cancerous, but they can still profoundly affect your health and quality of life. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Over time, the fibers scar the lungs, resulting in persistent symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and fatigue. For those who worked in Michigan’s industrial settings where asbestos was prevalent, the risk of developing asbestosis is alarmingly high.

Although asbestosis is not cancer, it can make you more vulnerable to developing mesothelioma or lung cancer over time. The physical toll it takes on your body can also significantly limit your daily activities, preventing you from working or enjoying life the way you once did.

Michigan’s rich manufacturing history, from its automotive industries in Detroit to its industrial hubs in Flint, has come with an unfortunate legacy of asbestos exposure. Many industries relied on asbestos for its fireproof, durable qualities, which unknowingly put workers and their families at risk. Specifically, individuals at higher risk include:

Automotive Workers: Factories producing cars and their parts frequently used asbestos for fire-resistant brake pads, clutches, and insulation in vehicles. Workers in these facilities were put in direct contact with the dangerous fibers.
Construction Workers: Those handling insulation materials, drywall, roof shingles, or plumbing often came into contact with asbestos-containing materials while on the job.
Shipyard Employees: Michigan’s shipbuilding industry relied heavily on asbestos for insulating pipes, boilers, and other ship components. Both workers in shipyards and those performing repairs on older ships were at significant risk.
Industrial and Factory Workers: Michigan’s industrial past saw widespread use of asbestos in steel production, power plants, and other manufacturing facilities, exposing numerous workers over the decades.
Family Members of Workers: Secondary asbestos exposure often occurs when workers unknowingly bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes or shoes, putting loved ones at risk.

Sadly, exposure wasn’t limited to just the workplace. Many older buildings in Michigan, including homes, schools, and hospitals, contain asbestos in insulation, ceiling tiles, and flooring, posing a threat to renovators, maintenance personnel, and residents.

If you live in Michigan and suspect past exposure to asbestos, monitoring your health and consulting with experienced attorneys can guide you in protecting your future.

Numerous companies may be legally responsible for exposing their workers to harmful asbestos-ridden environments, resulting in life-threatening asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma. If you have worked for one or more of these companies and been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a free case evaluation.

Let us help you get the legal representation you deserve.

Michigan Companies That Manufactured Asbestos Products

American Axle – Three Rivers, MI
Ascension Borgess Hospital – Kalamazoo, MI
B.C. Cobb Power Plant – Muskegon, MI
Big Rock Point Nuclear Power Plant – Charlevoix, MI
Brunswick Bowling Products/Brunswick Corporation – Muskegon, MI
Campbell Wyant and Cannon Foundry – Muskegon, MI
Coca-Cola – Paw Paw, MI
Denso Manufacturing – Battle Creek, MI
Domtar Paper Mill – Port Huron, MI
Donald C. Cook Nuclear Plant – Bridgman, MI
Dow Chemical Company – Midland, MI
Escanaba Paper Mill – Escabana, MI
Ferris College – Big Rapids, MI
Filer City Paper Mill – Manistee/Filer City, MI
General Motors – Lansing, MI
Georgia Pacific Paper Mill – Kalamazoo, MI
Gerber Products Plant – Fremont, MI
Grand Valley State University – Allendale, MI
Great Lakes Works – Ecorse, MI
GTE Building (k/n/a Verizon) – Muskegon, MI
Hillsdale Power House/Endicott Generating Station – Litchfield, MI
Hooker Chemical – Montague, MI
International Paper Plant – Three Rivers, MI
James River Paper Mill – Kalamazoo, MI
Kellogg Plant – Battle Creek, MI
Leprino Foods Company – Allendale, MI
Ludington Pumped Storage Power Plant – Ludington, MI
Marathon Oil Corporation – Muskegon, MI
Mead Johnson / Bristol Myers – Zeeland, MI
Menasha Paper Mill – Otsego, MI
Monroe Power Station – Monroe, MI
Palisades Nuclear Generating Station – Covert, MI
Pfizer Manufacturing Plant – Kalamazoo, MI
Plainwell Paper Mill – Plainwell, MI
Ralston Purina Cereal Plant – Battle Creek, MI
Rock Tenn Paper Mill – Otsego, MI
S.D. Warren Co./Scott Paper Co. – Muskegon, MI
Steelcase Inc. – Grand Rapids, MI
Sun Chemical – Muskegon, MI
Upjohn – Kalamazoo, MI
Welch Foods Plant – Lawton, MI
Western Michigan University – Beam Power Plant – Kalamazoo, MI
Weyerhaeuser Company – Grayling, MI
Wyandotte Chemicals Plant – Wyandotte, MI
Zeeland Chemical Co./Vertellus Health & Specialty Products – Zeeland, MI

Not everyone exposed to asbestos can file a claim, but lawsuits can often be a viable option for individuals or families affected by asbestos-related illnesses. You may be eligible to file an asbestos exposure lawsuit if:

You Have a Confirmed Diagnosis: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis linked to asbestos, you may be entitled to compensation. A medical diagnosis is a critical piece of evidence in your claim.
You Can Identify the Source of Exposure: A strong case typically requires connecting your exposure to asbestos-containing products or workplaces. Law firms like Vogelzang Law have the skills and resources to investigate and track down this vital information.
Lost Income or Mounting Medical Bills Are Affecting You: If you’ve incurred costly medical expenses, lost wages due to your illness, or experienced a decline in your overall quality of life, you may be entitled to recover damages for these financial and emotional burdens.
You Lost a Loved One to an Asbestos-Related Illness: Families of individuals who have passed away due to mesothelioma or other conditions caused by asbestos exposure may also file wrongful death lawsuits seeking compensation and justice.

Eligibility can vary based on state laws and other factors, making it essential to consult with legal professionals who have experience handling asbestos-related claims.

When dealing with the life-altering aftermath of asbestos exposure, a knowledgeable and compassionate lawyer can be your greatest ally. Here’s how Vogelzang Law can support you:

Thorough Case Investigation: We will investigate your history of exposure, pinpoint liable parties, and build a strong case with the evidence needed for success.
Professional Legal Guidance: Our team has over 20 years of experience handling asbestos litigation and understanding the unique challenges of these claims.
Maximizing Compensation: We fight to help you recover costs for medical treatments, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
Compassionate Advocacy: Your well-being is our priority. From handling the legal burden to offering emotional support, you’ll never face these challenges alone.
No Financial Burden: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case, so there’s no upfront cost to you.

Time is critical to protecting your rights. Contact Vogelzang Law today at (616) 319-1874 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Justice and compensation may be closer than you think, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Mesothelioma FAQs

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer found in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testicles. Because symptoms can be similar to those of several other conditions, such as the flu or pneumonia, they can be challenging to detect or diagnose.

The only proven cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.

There are four main types of mesothelioma - they include:

Pleural mesothelioma: This is the most common type of mesothelioma, accounting for approximately 75% of all cases. Malignant pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) and can cause symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and persistent coughing.
Peritoneal mesothelioma: This type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is less common than pleural mesothelioma, accounting for about 20% of cases. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, swelling, and nausea.
Pericardial mesothelioma: This rare type of mesothelioma (less than 1% of all cases) affects the lining of the heart (pericardium). Symptoms of this type of malignant mesothelioma may include chest pain, palpitations, and difficulty breathing.
Testicular mesothelioma: This is the rarest form of mesothelioma and affects the lining of the testicles. It may cause swelling or lumps in the testicles, but it usually does not cause any other symptoms.

What causes mesothelioma?

Asbestos exposure is the only proven cause of mesothelioma. Too many asbestos companies and manufacturers knowingly subjected their workers and the public to hazardous asbestos-laden products.

When asbestos fibers are inhaled or inadvertently consumed, they become lodged in the delicate linings of internal organs. The body's inability to degrade these fibers leads to years of irritation, which can eventually trigger the development of cancer cells.

Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, various treatment options are available that may help extend life expectancy and alleviate symptoms.

Some treatment options include:

Surgery
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Radiation Therapy
Targeted Therapy
Tumor Treating Fields
Clinical Trials

Are mesothelioma and lung cancer the same disease?

No. Mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs, the lining of the abdominal cavity, the lining of the heart, or the lining of the testicles. In contrast, lung cancer originates directly within the lungs.

How common is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. Between 2,000 and 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Men are four times more likely to receive a mesothelioma diagnosis than women, with the average patient being over the age of 70. Mesothelioma accounts for approximately 0.3% of annual cancer diagnoses in the U.S.

How long does it take for mesothelioma symptoms to develop?

Mesothelioma and other diseases caused by asbestos exposure often have a long latency period, with symptoms typically manifesting 20 to 50 years after the initial exposure.

Medical FAQs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatments, & Prognosis

What are some common symptoms of mesothelioma?

Because mesothelioma symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions, such as pneumonia or the flu, it can be challenging to detect and diagnose. Common symptoms of malignant mesothelioma may include:

Difficulty breathing
Persistent coughing
Pain under the rib cage
Abdominal pain, swelling, or lumps
Prolonged hoarseness
Persistent constipation
Excessive blood clotting, indicated by redness, swelling, and pain
Unexplained weight loss
Chronic fatigue
Chest pain or irregular heartbeat

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, contact your physician immediately and inform them of your history of asbestos exposure.

How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can be difficult to diagnose. Its rarity, combined with symptoms that can mimic other cancers like lung cancer, contributes to this diagnostic challenge.

To diagnose your condition, your physician will likely begin by inquiring about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and any past asbestos exposure.

From there, you may undergo several diagnostic procedures:

Physical tests, such as a lung function test
Imaging tests, including chest x-rays, a CT scan, a PET scan, or an MRI
Thoracoscopic surgical biopsy, in which an endoscope is inserted into the chest cavity and a tissue sample is taken - also often referred to as a video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) biopsy
Needle biopsy where a long, thin needle is inserted in the pleura and small tissue samples are taken out for examination

What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?

Treatment options often involve a multimodal approach and will depend on factors including the stage and type of mesothelioma you have, as well as medical history and overall health. The most common treatments for mesothelioma include:

Surgery
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Radiation Therapy
Targeted Therapy
Tumor Treating Field
Clinical Trials

Is mesothelioma contagious?

No, mesothelioma is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person.

However, asbestos fibers can be transferred from one individual to another. These microscopic fibers can attach to clothing and hair, and there are documented instances of people inadvertently carrying asbestos fibers from their workplaces into their homes.

This is known as secondhand asbestos exposure.

Can mesothelioma be diagnosed through an X-ray instead of a biopsy?

Although chest X-rays are commonly used to investigate lung concerns, they can only reveal abnormalities such as tumors, excess fluid, or thickened lung linings. To accurately diagnose mesothelioma, a biopsy is required.

How long can you live with mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage, as symptoms frequently go unnoticed. Although the average life expectancy is 12-21 months, this can fluctuate significantly based on individual factors.

A patient’s life expectancy will depend on several factors, including their:

Age
Overall health
Treatment options
Type of mesothelioma

It is critical to seek medical care immediately if you suspect you have mesothelioma, as early intervention may extend your life expectancy.

Can mesothelioma enter remission, like other cancers?

Though rare, mesothelioma treatment can be effective enough to halt the growth of cancer cells. Consulting a mesothelioma specialist is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

If you need help finding a specialist, contact us - we have connections with hospitals, oncologists, and pulmonologists around the nation.

How do I find the right doctor to diagnose my mesothelioma?

Given the rarity of mesothelioma, it is recommended to consult a specialist. Our mesothelioma lawyers collaborate closely with mesothelioma specialists nationwide, including those at the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, RUSH Medical Center, the University of Chicago, and the Mayo Clinic.

Mesothelioma Lawsuit FAQs

How do I file a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Vogelzang Law has over 25 years of experience in asbestos litigation. Mesothelioma cases can be incredibly complex - working with an experienced firm will make the process as straightforward as possible.

Learn more about our process.

In general, the mesothelioma claims process involves the following steps:

Initial consultation: During this free, confidential consultation, we'll discuss your work history, medical diagnosis, and asbestos exposure to determine your legal options.
Gathering evidence: We will collect medical records, employment history, and documents related to asbestos exposure to build a strong case. Our experienced team knows how to find the proof needed for your claim.
Nationwide reach: We handle mesothelioma cases across the nation. Our attorneys are well-versed in state laws and can assist you in filing a lawsuit for compensation, regardless of where your asbestos exposure occurred.
Filing the lawsuit: After gathering evidence, we'll file your lawsuit. Most cases settle out of court, avoiding long trials. Our goal is a swift and efficient resolution, along with deserved compensation.
No upfront costs: We offer contingency-based fees, so you only pay attorney fees if we win your mesothelioma case.

You are not alone. We are here to support you every step of the way. Our attorneys will come to your home, handle all the paperwork, and guide you through the legal process with compassion and care. Our goal is to make this as easy on you as possible while ensuring that those responsible for your asbestos exposure are held accountable.

What is the average compensation for a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Mesothelioma settlement amounts vary significantly, making it difficult to determine an average. Each case is unique, and a law firm's previous successes do not guarantee similar future outcomes.

Many factors influence the compensation amount in each case. These can include the severity of the asbestos-related illness, any lost wages, and medical expenses.

However, a few of our past mesothelioma legal settlements include:

$17 million - Union Boilermaker
$8 million – Union Boilermaker
$7.9 million – Union Pipefitter
$7.7 million – Union Pipefitter
$7.6 million – Union Boilermaker
$6.9 million - Assembly Worker
$5.8 million - Union Steelworker
$5.63 million – Union Pipefitter

See all our case results.

Who is eligible to file a mesothelioma lawsuit?

You may be eligible for mesothelioma compensation if:

You were diagnosed with mesothelioma
Your spouse or parent had mesothelioma and passed away
You represent the estate of someone with mesothelioma who passed away

Not sure if you’re eligible? Contact us for a free case evaluation.

What are my options for compensation from a mesothelioma lawsuit?

If you've been affected by mesothelioma, compensation might be available through lawsuits or asbestos trust funds. An estimated $30 billion remains in these funds, which were established by asbestos companies that filed for bankruptcy due to lawsuits related to mesothelioma.

How long does it take to get compensation for a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Receiving a mesothelioma settlement varies from case to case. We recognize the urgency for families impacted by mesothelioma to achieve swift outcomes, and we are committed to securing your compensation as quickly as possible.

How much does a mesothelioma lawyer cost?

Vogelzang Law's asbestos attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. You won't pay any upfront or out-of-pocket fees; we only receive payment if your mesothelioma case is successful.