While Rhode Island is the smallest state, there have been a total of over 140 mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis deaths in Rhode Island from since 2000. The majority of these deaths came from Rhode Island’s industrial manufacturing. Since being banned in the late 1970s by the Environmental Protection Agency, many efforts have been made to remove and discard of the asbestos, but some may remain within your workplace, home or local schools. As a result of using asbestos, Rhode Island ranks 44th in the nation for asbestos-related deaths, leading to many Rhode Island asbestos mesothelioma lawsuits.
Where Are Common Rhode Island Places Where Asbestos Was Used?
- Shipyards: Known for their beautiful ships and views, Newport Naval Yard and Walsh-Kaiser Shipyard, are also well-known for extensive asbestos use. Asbestos was typically used to build ships, repair parts, and provide insulation from the 1930s until the late 1970s.
- Schools: Most schools, including elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, and colleges, were built using asbestos for its insulation and fire-resistant properties. Yet, because of its use in Rhode Island schools built prior to the ban, many staff members, teachers, and students could still be at risk today.
- Manufacturing plants: An array of manufacturing businesses used asbestos in everything from their machinery, parts to keep the machines running, equipment and products.
- Power plants: Known for its ability to keep structures insulated and being fireproof, asbestos became useful for power plants throughout Rhode Island, along with being used for protective clothing worn by the plant’s employees.
What is My Case Worth?
It is important you begin the process of a lawsuit immediately after being diagnosed with mesothelioma, especially because the relevant time for the statute of limitations in most states is 2 years after diagnosis, not 2 years after exposure. The dollar amount you are likely to receive will depend on the evidence you have linking your mesothelioma to asbestos exposure. Some cases result in jury awards or settlements in the millions while others may settle for less. For example, in 2007, a Rhode Island jury awarded a local Pawtucket resident $2 million after he was diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer.
Compensation will also depend on how the illness affected the victim’s life. How much in medical expenses did the victim and his or her family spend? What was the emotional toll this took on the victim and the family? What other expenses did they incur? These and other factors may have an impact on what your case will be worth.
Contacting an Experienced Lawyer
If you have suffered asbestos-related mesothelioma or have lost a loved one to mesothelioma, you need an experienced Rhode Island Asbestos Mesothelioma lawyer who has successfully handled similar cases on your side. The Rhode Island personal injury law firm of d’Oliveira & Associates works with experienced Rhode Island asbestos mesothelioma lawyers who can help you seek and recover maximum compensation for your losses. These lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they will not charge you any fees until you have received compensation. Call us toll free at 1-800-992-6878 or contact us online to begin the lawsuit process.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
Rate this Post
Loading...