Indiana Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
The history of asbestos exposure on Indiana job sites traces back to the early 20th century, coinciding with the state’s industrial boom. Asbestos, prized for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, was extensively used in various industries across Indiana, including manufacturing, construction, and mining. Companies such as U.S. Steel in Gary, automotive plants in Indianapolis, and chemical facilities in South Bend relied on asbestos for its versatility in applications like insulation, fireproofing, and friction materials.
Workers in Indiana’s industrial sectors, such as steel mills, foundries, and power plants, were frequently exposed to asbestos fibers during their daily tasks. Mechanics, pipefitters, insulators, and construction workers handled asbestos-containing materials without adequate protection, unknowingly inhaling or ingesting airborne asbestos fibers. Moreover, miners in regions like the Wabash Valley and southern Indiana encountered asbestos while extracting minerals like coal and limestone, where asbestos was naturally occurring or used in mining operations.
Unfortunately, the widespread use of asbestos in Indiana’s industries resulted in a significant health impact on workers. Many individuals who were exposed to asbestos on the job later developed asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The latency period for these illnesses can be decades, with symptoms often emerging long after exposure has ceased. Today, efforts are ongoing to address the legacy of asbestos exposure in Indiana, including legal recourse for affected individuals and initiatives to raise awareness and promote worker safety.
History of Asbestos Exposure in Indiana
Indiana has a deep-rooted history of asbestos usage across various industries, including steel manufacturing, automotive production, and construction, during the 20th century. Asbestos was prized for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, leading to its widespread incorporation into equipment, machinery, and infrastructure components in factories, refineries, shipyards, and power plants throughout the state. Additionally, older buildings, including schools, homes, and public facilities, contained asbestos in insulation, roofing materials, and flooring.
This extensive asbestos use has resulted in a significant impact on public health in Indiana, with numerous cases of asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis reported among workers and residents. The latency period for these diseases can range from 10 to 50 years, meaning individuals exposed to asbestos decades ago may only now be experiencing symptoms. Despite increased awareness and regulatory measures in recent years, the legacy of asbestos exposure continues to affect individuals and communities throughout Indiana, underscoring the ongoing need for proactive measures to address the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
FAQs about Indiana Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
What industries in Indiana are associated with asbestos exposure?
Indiana has a history of asbestos use in industries such as manufacturing, construction, automotive, and power generation. Workers in these industries, as well as residents living near industrial areas, may have been exposed to asbestos fibers.
What are the health risks associated with asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health conditions including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These diseases often develop years or even decades after the initial exposure to asbestos fibers.
How can individuals in Indiana who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma seek compensation?
Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma in Indiana may be eligible to seek compensation through asbestos trust funds, established by bankrupt asbestos companies to compensate victims and their families. Additionally, they can pursue legal action through mesothelioma lawsuits against responsible parties for their asbestos exposure.
What legal options are available for residents of Indiana diagnosed with mesothelioma?
Residents of Indiana diagnosed with mesothelioma have the option to pursue legal action through mesothelioma lawsuits against companies responsible for their asbestos exposure. Experienced mesothelioma lawyers can offer guidance and representation to help victims navigate the legal process and obtain rightful compensation for their injuries and medical expenses.
How can individuals in Indiana determine if they have been exposed to asbestos?
If individuals in Indiana have worked in industries known for asbestos use or lived in older buildings, they may have been exposed to asbestos. Seeking medical evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional is advisable for anyone concerned about asbestos exposure and potential health risks.
TO GET HELP – Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline Number is 888.640.0914
Indiana Asbestos Exposure Hot Spots
More than 1,100 tons of asbestos shipments were received in the state of Indiana. High asbestos exposure was in industrial plants, factories, power plants, steel mills, iron mills, oil refineries, and construction sites in Marion County, Lake County, Vanderburgh County, Allen County and Porter County.
Automotive Plants: Asbestos was used extensively in automotive manufacturing, particularly in brake pads, clutches, and gaskets, posing risks to workers in plants such as those in Anderson and Indianapolis.
Chemical Plants: Workers in chemical plants, including those in South Bend and Gary, faced asbestos exposure due to its use in insulation, pipes, and machinery components.
Foundries: Foundries in cities like Fort Wayne and Hammond utilized asbestos in insulation and refractory materials, endangering workers involved in metal casting and fabrication processes.
Power Plants: Asbestos was prevalent in the construction of power plants across Indiana, with facilities in Evansville and Terre Haute presenting risks to employees due to asbestos-containing insulation and machinery.
Refineries: Refineries in Whiting and Michigan City utilized asbestos in insulation, gaskets, and equipment, exposing workers to asbestos fibers during maintenance and operations.
Steel Mills: Asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in steel mills, including in furnaces, boilers, and pipes, leading to exposure risks for workers in facilities such as those in Gary and East Chicago.
Shipbuilding Yards: Shipyards along the Great Lakes, including those in Gary and Jeffersonville, used asbestos extensively in ship construction, endangering workers involved in shipbuilding and repair.
Textile Mills: Asbestos was used in textile manufacturing machinery and insulation in mills located in cities like Elkhart and Indianapolis, posing risks to workers involved in textile production processes.
Tile Manufacturing Plants: Tile manufacturing plants in Anderson and Muncie used asbestos in tile formulations and insulation, exposing workers to asbestos fibers during production and handling.
Insulation Contractors: Insulation contractors operating in cities like Indianapolis and Lafayette handled asbestos-containing materials during insulation installation and removal, leading to occupational exposure risks.
Automotive Repair Shops: Automotive repair shops throughout Indiana, including those in Bloomington and Kokomo, faced asbestos exposure due to the presence of asbestos-containing brake pads, clutches, and gaskets in older vehicles.
Construction Sites: Construction workers in urban centers like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne encountered asbestos exposure during renovations and demolitions of older buildings containing asbestos insulation, roofing materials, and flooring.
Indiana Mesothelioma Asbestos Deaths
- Indiana Asbestos-Related Deaths Since 1999: 5,790
- Indiana Asbestosis Cancer Deaths: 198
- Indiana Mesothelioma Cancer Deaths: 1,120
- Indiana Estimated-Asbestos Cancer Deaths: 4,480
Asbestos Cover up – Quotes from Asbestos Executives
Evidence in thousands of court documents have shown that asbestos companies hid and destroyed memos, documents and ignored doctor’s medical reports about the dangers of asbestos exposure. Despite all of the information about the deadly dangers of asbestos exposure available in the scientific and medical literature asbestos companies chose not take any action to protect workers.
They chose profit over the safety of their workers and then lied and covered it up. This is why U. S. Courts are making asbestos manufacturers and companies pay millions to asbestos victims for their asbestos cover up.
“…if you have enjoyed a good life while working with asbestos products, why not die from it.” 1966 memo from an executive of the Bendix Corporation (now part of Honeywell)
In early 1940s, the president of Johns-Manville called the managers of another company “a bunch of fools for notifying employees who had asbestosis.” When asked by another company executive, “Do you mean to tell me you would let them work until they drop dead?” he responded, “Yes. We save a lot of money that way.”
Mesothelioma has been medically linked to workplace asbestos exposure.
Indiana Veterans and Asbestos Exposure
- Military Veterans that have a 1 in 3 chance of developing an asbestos related disease in their lifetime. Veterans have the right to bring lawsuits against negligent asbestos companies for exposing them to toxic asbestos-containing products and materials.
- There are 21.5 million current living Veterans according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans who served between 1940 and 1970 have the greatest risk of developing Mesothelioma or an asbestos-related cancer. Navy Veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War have the highest incidence of Asbestos-related diseases.
- The U.S. Military used thousands of asbestos-containing products in their ships between the 1920-late 1970’s. 14 in every 1,000 WW II shipyard workers died of an asbestos-related disease compared to 18 in every 1,000 combat related deaths.
- Mesothelioma primarily occurs in Veterans between the ages of 55-75.
Asbestos was listed as the top contaminant at 32 U.S. Army base closures during the 1990s.
A recent study showed that as many as 30-40% of Mesothelioma victims is U. S. Veterans.
Asbestos Trust Funds Mesothelioma Claims in Indiana
U.S. Asbestos Bankruptcy Trust Funds have played a crucial role in compensating individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma in Indiana. With nearly $21 billion paid out to over 600,000 asbestos claimants nationwide, these trust funds have provided essential financial support to victims of asbestos exposure. In Indiana, where numerous industries historically utilized asbestos-containing materials, the impact of mesothelioma has been significant. Thankfully, approximately 60 active Asbestos Trust Funds exist, holding an estimated $32 billion in remaining assets. These funds aim to compensate workers and their families for the devastating effects of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
Established to manage settlements for asbestos exposure claims, Asbestos Settlement Trusts operate under the guidance of trustees who determine compensation amounts for mesothelioma claimants. This process is particularly crucial as it allows asbestos companies to fulfill their obligations while undergoing bankruptcy reorganization, enabling them to continue operations. Despite these settlements, it’s important to note that they typically do not constitute an admission of guilt by the asbestos companies involved. If you or a loved one has a history of asbestos exposure and has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, seeking regular medical check-ups is essential. With over 20 years of experience, our team is dedicated to assisting mesothelioma victims and their families in Indiana, providing guidance and support throughout the claims process.
TO GET HELP – Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline Number is 888.640.0914
Indiana Residents Were Exposed to Asbestos:
Indiana residents faced significant risks of asbestos exposure due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials in various settings across the state. Many buildings, including homes, schools, and commercial structures, were constructed or renovated using asbestos-based products like insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and roofing materials. As these buildings aged or underwent renovations, asbestos fibers could be released into the air, posing health hazards to occupants. Moreover, individuals may have encountered asbestos in everyday household items such as hair dryers, ironing board covers, and automotive components, all of which historically contained asbestos. The extensive utilization of asbestos in construction and consumer products contributed to the widespread exposure of Indiana residents to this hazardous mineral.
How Indiana Workers Were Exposed to Asbestos:
Workers across various industries in Indiana faced significant risks of asbestos exposure during their employment. In industrial environments, workers involved in shipbuilding, construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair were highly susceptible to asbestos exposure due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials. Insulation materials containing asbestos were prevalent in shipyards, industrial plants, and construction sites, presenting risks when disturbed during maintenance or repair tasks. Additionally, construction laborers, including carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, encountered asbestos-containing materials such as drywall, joint compound, and floor tiles in older structures. Automotive mechanics and workers in other trades also faced potential asbestos exposure through the use of products like brake linings, gaskets, and insulation during vehicle repairs.
Asbestos Exposure in Indiana Cities:
Indiana, like many states, has cities where asbestos exposure has been a concern due to industrial activities and aging infrastructure. Cities such as Indianapolis, Gary, and Fort Wayne have a history of asbestos use in industries like steel manufacturing, automotive production, and construction. Workers in these urban areas, along with residents, may have been exposed to asbestos fibers from old buildings, equipment, and materials. Asbestos-containing products in factories, refineries, and other industrial settings pose risks to workers’ health and safety.
| Indiana | Cities | Asbestos Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Anderson, IN | Jeffersonville, IN | Bloomington, IN |
| Kokomo, IN | Brownsburg, IN | La Porte, IN |
| Carmel, IN | Lafayette, IN | Clarksville, IN |
| Lawrence, IN | Columbus, IN | Lebanon, IN |
| Crawfordsville, IN | Logansport, IN | Crown Point, IN |
| Marion, IN | Dyer, IN | Merrillville, IN |
| East Chicago, IN | Michigan City, IN | Elkhart, IN |
| Mishawaka, IN | Evansville, IN | Muncie, IN |
| Fishers Town, IN | Munster Town, IN | Fort Wayne, IN |
| New Albany, IN | Frankfort, IN | New Castle, IN |
| Franklin, IN | Noblesville, IN | Gary, IN |
| Plainfield, IN | Goshen, IN | Portage, IN |
| Granger, IN | Richmond, IN | Greenfield, IN |
| Schererville, IN | Greenwood, IN | Seymour, IN |
| Griffith, IN | Shelbyville, IN | Hammond, IN |
| South Bend, IN | Highland, IN | Terre Haute, IN |
| Hobart, IN | Valparaiso, IN | Huntington, IN |
| Vincennes, IN | Indianapolis, IN | West Lafayette, IN |
| Jasper, IN | Westfield, IN |
Asbestos Exposure in Indiana Counties:
Asbestos exposure is not limited to Indiana’s cities; it extends to various counties within the state. Counties such as Lake, Marion, and Allen have reported cases of asbestos-related diseases linked to industrial activities and older building structures. Workers in industries like manufacturing, mining, and agriculture have faced heightened risks of asbestos exposure in several Indiana counties. Efforts to address asbestos hazards, including asbestos abatement and legal recourse, are crucial to protecting the health of residents and workers across the state’s counties.
| Indiana | Counties | Asbestos Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Adams County, MS | Hancock County, MS | Lincoln County, MS |
| Alcorn County, MS | Harrison County, MS | Lowndes County, MS |
| Amite County, MS | Hinds County, MS | Madison County, MS |
| Attala County, MS | Holmes County, MS | Smith County, MS |
| Benton County, MS | Bolivar, MS | Humphreys County, MS |
| Marshall County, MS | Sunflower County, MS | Calhoun County, MS |
| Carroll, MS | Issaquena County, MS | Monroe County, MS |
| Tallahatchie County, MS | Chickasaw County, MS | Itawamba County, MS |
| Montgomery County, MS | Tate County, MS | Choctaw County, MS |
| Jackson County, MS | Neshoba County, MS | Tippah County, MS |
| Claiborne County, MS | Jasper County, MS | Newton County, MS |
| Clarke County, MS | Jefferson County, MS | Noxubee County, MS |
| Tunica County, MS | Clay County, MS | Jefferson Davis County, MS |
| Oktibbeha County, MS | Union County, MS | Coahoma County, MS |
| Jones County, MS | Panola County, MS | Walthall County, MS |
| Copiah County, MS | Kemper County, MS | Pearl River County, MS |
| Warren County, MS | Covington County, MS | Lafayette County, MS |
| Washington County, MS | Perry County, MS | DeSoto County, MS |
| Lamar County, MS | Pike County, MS | Forrest County, MS |
| Pontotoc County, MS | Webster County, MS | Franklin County, MS |
| Lawrence County, MS | Prentiss County, MS | Wilkinson County, MS |
| George County, MS | Leake County, MS | Quitman County, MS |
| Winston County, MS | Greene County, MS | Lee County, MS |
| Yalobusha County, MS | Grenada County, MS | Leflore County, MS |
| Scott County, MS | Yazoo County, MS |
There is More Than 30 Billion Dollars Set Aside for Mesothelioma and Asbestos Victims in Asbestos Bankruptcy Trusts
What is Mesothelioma Cancer?
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other major organs in the body. It is characterized by the presence of malignant cancer cells in the sac lining the chest (pleura) or the abdomen (peritoneum). In the United States, approximately 3,000 new cases of malignant mesothelioma are diagnosed each year. If you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to contact a doctor immediately for evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
If you or a family member has received a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, you probably have numerous questions about managing the illness and pursuing legal recourse against asbestos manufacturers and companies accountable for your asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is an extremely lethal disease, with an average survival time of 4-18 months, as per the American Cancer Society. Reach out to our toll-free number now to connect with a live mesothelioma counselor who can address many of your inquiries and offer you the reassurance you seek.
Family Member Died from Mesothelioma?
If you have a family member who has died from Mesothelioma cancer, you should immediately consult with an experienced Mesothelioma diagnosis lawyer about what compensation may be available to you from asbestos trust funds that total more than $30 billion.
We have seen many families lose their right to file a lawsuit because their Statute of Limitations had expired while they were grieving. We know it is a tough time to grieve the loss of a loved one, but please do not let your Statute of Limitations expire for filing your Mesothelioma lawsuit. In most states, the Statute of Limitations is 1-3 years.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that you file your Mesothelioma claim within your state’s Statute of Limitations.
Taking Legal Action
When confronted with the devastating impact of a mesothelioma diagnosis resulting from asbestos exposure, pursuing legal action becomes a crucial step towards securing the compensation you rightly deserve. Our team is here to assist you in initiating a mesothelioma lawsuit with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, ensuring the protection of your rights and the delivery of justice. Discover today which Asbestos Trust Funds you may be eligible for to receive compensation.
Schedule a FREE Case Consultation
Scheduling a free case consultation is your first step toward seeking justice in mesothelioma cancer lawsuits. We are ready to assess your unique situation and provide the guidance you will need during this challenging time. Take this essential step toward pursuing fair compensation for your mesothelioma-related injuries.
Get Help from an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
When dealing with the complexities of mesothelioma cancer lawsuits, getting help from an experienced injury attorney is crucial. For more than 24 years, we have assisted workers, veterans, and families in obtaining the compensation they deserved from negligent asbestos companies. Contact us at 888.640.0914 to secure the support you will need throughout your pursuit of fair and just compensation.
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Indiana Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits