Louisiana, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Louisiana has a significant history of asbestos exposure, particularly in industries such as oil refining, chemical manufacturing, shipbuilding, and construction. Workers in these sectors were frequently exposed to asbestos-containing materials, which were valued for their heat resistance and insulating properties. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health consequences, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
As a result of asbestos exposure, many individuals in Louisiana have developed mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. In response, numerous mesothelioma lawsuits have been filed in Louisiana courts seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These lawsuits aim to hold accountable the companies responsible for exposing workers to asbestos and failing to provide adequate safety measures.
History of Asbestos Exposure in Louisiana
The history of asbestos exposure in Louisiana dates back to the early to mid-20th century when asbestos use was widespread in various industries. Louisiana’s booming oil industry, in particular, relied heavily on asbestos-containing materials for insulation and fireproofing in refineries and chemical plants. Shipbuilding activities along the Mississippi River also contributed to asbestos exposure among workers.
Over time, the health risks associated with asbestos became more apparent, leading to increased regulation and awareness. However, many individuals had already been exposed to asbestos fibers, resulting in a significant number of asbestos-related disease cases in Louisiana. Efforts to address asbestos hazards, including asbestos abatement and legal recourse, are ongoing to protect the health and well-being of Louisiana residents.
Who Qualifies for Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, individuals seeking compensation for asbestos exposure must meet specific criteria:
Diagnosis: A formal diagnosis of mesothelioma or asbestos-related diseases by a licensed medical professional is required to pursue legal action.
Exposure History: Providing evidence of exposure to asbestos due to negligence from manufacturers, companies, or products is crucial. Detailed documentation of where and when the exposure occurred is essential.
Legal Assistance: Consulting with an experienced attorney specializing in asbestos-related cases is highly recommended. They can assist in gathering necessary documents, building a strong case, and representing individuals in court if needed.
Timely Filing: It’s essential to file asbestos trust fund claims or mesothelioma lawsuits within Louisiana’s statute of limitations to ensure eligibility for compensation.
Securing Compensation: Compensation is essential for covering medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress caused by asbestos-related illnesses. Seeking guidance from professionals familiar with Louisiana’s legal process ensures individuals receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.
TO GET HELP – Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline Number is 888.640.0914
Frequently Asked Questions about Louisiana Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
1What is asbestos, and how does exposure occur in Louisiana?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its heat resistance and durability. In Louisiana, exposure to asbestos can occur in various industries such as shipbuilding, oil refineries, construction, and manufacturing, where asbestos-containing materials were commonly used.
What health risks are associated with asbestos exposure?
Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Mesothelioma, in particular, is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
How do I know if I’ve been exposed to asbestos in Louisiana?
If you have worked in industries known for asbestos use or lived in older buildings where asbestos-containing materials were present, you may have been exposed. Additionally, if you experience symptoms like persistent coughing, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation.
What legal options are available for Louisiana residents diagnosed with mesothelioma?
Louisiana residents diagnosed with mesothelioma may be eligible to file lawsuits against responsible parties, such as asbestos manufacturers, distributors, or employers. These lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the illness.
How can I prove asbestos exposure in Louisiana?
Proving asbestos exposure often requires gathering evidence such as employment records, witness testimony, medical records documenting asbestos-related illnesses, and documentation of asbestos-containing products used in specific locations or industries.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, there is a specific time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney to understand and adhere to these legal deadlines.
Are there asbestos trust funds available for Louisiana mesothelioma victims?
Yes, many asbestos trust funds have been established by bankrupt asbestos companies to compensate mesothelioma victims. An experienced attorney can help determine eligibility and assist in filing claims with these trust funds.
How can I find a qualified attorney to handle my mesothelioma case in Louisiana?
It’s essential to choose an attorney with experience in handling asbestos and mesothelioma cases in Louisiana. You can research reputable law firms specializing in asbestos litigation and schedule consultations to find the right attorney to represent your case.
Louisiana Asbestos Exposure Hot Spots
More than 123,000 tons of asbestos shipments were received in the state of Louisiana. High asbestos exposure was in Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, East Baton Rouge Parish, Calcasieu Parish, and Caddo Parish.
Asbestos Exposure Hot Spots in Louisiana Industrial Workplace
Baton Rouge Industrial Plants: Workers in Baton Rouge’s industrial plants faced asbestos exposure during maintenance and repair tasks, where asbestos-containing insulation and gaskets were commonly used in machinery and equipment.
Lake Charles Refineries: Employees at Lake Charles refineries encountered asbestos exposure while working on piping systems and machinery insulated with asbestos-containing materials, contributing to harmful fiber inhalation.
New Orleans Shipyards: Shipyard workers in New Orleans faced asbestos exposure during the construction and repair of vessels, where asbestos insulation and fireproofing materials were extensively utilized, posing significant health risks.
Plaquemine Chemical Plants: Workers at Plaquemine chemical plants were exposed to asbestos while handling equipment and pipes insulated with asbestos-containing materials, leading to potential fiber inhalation and related health hazards.
Houma Oil Rigs: Oil rig workers in Houma faced asbestos exposure during drilling and maintenance operations, where asbestos-containing materials were used in insulation, gaskets, and machinery components.
Lafayette Construction Sites: Construction workers in Lafayette encountered asbestos exposure during renovations or demolitions of older buildings containing asbestos-containing materials like insulation, roofing, and floor tiles.
Shreveport Manufacturing Facilities: Employees in Shreveport’s manufacturing facilities faced asbestos exposure while handling machinery and equipment insulated with asbestos-containing materials, increasing the risk of fiber inhalation during production processes.
Port Allen Power Plants: Workers at Port Allen power plants were exposed to asbestos during maintenance activities on boilers, turbines, and generators, where asbestos insulation and gaskets were commonly used, posing health risks.
Monroe Paper Mills: Employees at Monroe paper mills encountered asbestos exposure while working with machinery and equipment insulated with asbestos-containing materials, contributing to potential fiber inhalation during paper production.
Alexandria Chemical Refineries: Workers at Alexandria chemical refineries faced asbestos exposure during maintenance tasks on processing units and piping systems insulated with asbestos-containing materials, risking harmful fiber inhalation.
Sulphur Petrochemical Plants: Petrochemical plant workers in Sulphur were exposed to asbestos during repairs and maintenance on equipment and piping systems insulated with asbestos-containing materials, posing health risks in industrial environments.
Westwego Shipbuilding Yards: Shipbuilding yard workers in Westwego faced asbestos exposure during ship construction and repair activities, where asbestos insulation and fireproofing materials were utilized, increasing the risk of fiber inhalation.
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 to 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.”
Louisiana Mesothelioma Statistics (Asbestos-Related Deaths)
- Louisiana ranks 20th in the U. S. for deaths from malignant Mesothelioma.
- The mortality rate from Mesothelioma in Louisiana is 13.8 per million.
- 540 Louisiana residents died from malignant Mesothelioma.
- 880 asbestos-related deaths were reported in Louisiana since 1979.
- Jefferson Parish, LA has more than 189 asbestos-related deaths and more than 113 Mesothelioma Deaths.
Louisiana Mesothelioma Asbestos Deaths
- Louisiana Asbestos-Related Deaths Since 1999: 5,092
- Louisiana Asbestosis Cancer Deaths: 491
- Louisiana Mesothelioma Cancer Deaths: 927
- Louisiana Estimated-Asbestos Cancer Deaths: 3,708
*Statistics on Mesothelioma and asbestos related deaths were compiled from CDC (Center for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics), and NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) and other cancer reporting sources.
Mesothelioma Facts and Statistics
- More than 20 million American workers have been exposed to asbestos.
- Mesothelioma cases are found in 9 out of every 1 million people.
- 3,000 new cases of Mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the U. S.
- Each year in U. S 10,000 Americans will die from an asbestos related disease.
- 30% of U. S. Veterans will develop an asbestos-related disease in their life time.
- 1 in 125 U. S. males who live over the age of 50 will die from an asbestos-related disease.
- Experts believe 60,000 Malignant Mesothelioma deaths will occur between 2010 and 2030.
Louisiana 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.
FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY TODAY! – Call Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline – 888.640.0914
How Louisiana Residents Were Exposed to Asbestos:
Louisiana residents encountered significant risks of asbestos exposure due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials in various settings throughout the state. Many structures, including homes, schools, and public buildings, utilized asbestos-based products such as insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and roofing materials. As these structures aged or underwent renovations or demolitions, asbestos fibers could become airborne, posing health risks to occupants. Additionally, individuals might have encountered asbestos in household items like hair dryers, ironing board covers, and automotive components, all historically containing asbestos.
How Louisiana Workers Were Exposed to Asbestos:
Workers across diverse industries in Louisiana faced significant risks of asbestos exposure. Particularly in industrial environments, workers handling insulation materials, commonly used in shipbuilding, construction, and manufacturing processes, were highly susceptible to asbestos exposure. Asbestos-containing insulation was prevalent in shipyards, industrial plants, and construction sites, presenting risks when disturbed during maintenance or repair tasks. Construction laborers, including carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, also faced exposure to asbestos-containing materials such as drywall, joint compound, and floor tiles in older structures. During the execution of renovation or demolition projects, these materials could release asbestos fibers into the atmosphere, thereby endangering workers. Additionally, automotive mechanics and professionals in other trades faced potential asbestos exposure through the utilization of products like brake linings, gaskets, and insulation during vehicle repairs.
Asbestos Exposure in Louisiana Cities:
Louisiana has several cities where asbestos exposure has been a concern due to the prevalence of industries and older buildings. Cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport have a history of asbestos use in industries such as oil refining, chemical manufacturing, shipbuilding, and construction. This has put workers and residents at risk of exposure to asbestos fibers over the years. Asbestos-containing materials in aging infrastructure and the renovation or demolition of older buildings pose ongoing hazards. Awareness and safety measures are crucial to mitigate asbestos-related health risks in these urban areas.
| Louisiana | Cities | Asbestos Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Abbeville, LA | Alexandria, LA | Baker, LA |
| Baton Rouge, LA | Bayou Blue, LA | Bayou Cane, LA |
| Belle Chasse, LA | Bogalusa, LA | Bossier City, LA |
| Broussard, LA | Carencro, LA | Central, LA |
| Chalmette, LA | Claiborne, LA | Covington, LA |
| Crowley, LA | DeRidder, LA | Destrehan, LA |
| Estelle, LA | Gardere, LA | Gonzales, LA |
| Gretna, LA | Hammond, LA | Harvey, LA |
| Houma, LA | Jefferson, LA | Jennings, LA |
| Kenner, LA | Lafayette, LA | Lake Charles, LA |
| Laplace, LA | Luling, LA | Mandeville, LA |
| Marrero, LA | Metairie, LA | Minden, LA |
| Monroe, LA | Morgan City, LA | Moss Bluff, LA |
| Natchitoches, LA | New Iberia, LA | Opelousas, LA |
| Pineville, LA | Prairieville, LA | Raceland, LA |
| River Ridge, LA | Ruston, LA | Shenandoah, LA |
| Shreveport, LA | Slidell, LA | Sulphur, LA |
| Terrytown, LA | Thibodaux, LA | Timberlane, LA |
| Waggaman, LA | West Monroe, LA | Woodmere, LA |
| Youngsville, LA | Zachary, LA |
Asbestos Exposure in Louisiana Parishes:
Asbestos exposure is not limited to Louisiana’s cities; it extends to various parishes within the state. Parishes such as Orleans, East Baton Rouge, and Caddo have reported cases of asbestos-related diseases due to industrial activities and older building structures. Workers in industries like oil refining, chemical manufacturing, and shipbuilding have faced heightened risks of asbestos exposure in several Louisiana parishes. Efforts to address asbestos hazards, including asbestos abatement and legal recourse, are essential to safeguard the health of residents and workers across the state’s parishes.
| Louisiana | Parishes | Asbestos Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Acadia Parish, LA | Allen Parish, LA | Ascension Parish, LA |
| Assumption Parish, LA | Avoyelles Parish, LA | Beauregard Parish, LA |
| Bienville Parish, LA | Bossier Parish, LA | Caddo Parish, LA |
| Calcasieu Parish, LA | Caldwell Parish, LA | Cameron Parish, LA |
| Catahoula Parish, LA | Claiborne Parish, LA | Concordia Parish, LA |
| De Soto Parish, LA | East Baton Rouge Parish, LA | East Carroll Parish, LA |
| East Feliciana Parish, LA | Evangeline Parish, LA | Franklin Parish, LA |
| Grant Parish, LA | Iberia Parish, LA | Iberville Parish, LA |
| Jackson Parish, LA | Jefferson Parish, LA | Jefferson Davis Parish, LA |
| Lafayette Parish, LA | Lafourche Parish, LA | La Salle Parish, LA |
| Lincoln Parish, LA | Livingston Parish, LA | Madison Parish, LA |
| Morehouse Parish, LA | Natchitoches Parish, LA | Orleans Parish, LA |
| Ouachita Parish, LA | Plaquemines Parish, LA | Pointe Coupee Parish, LA |
| Rapides Parish, LA | Red River Parish, LA | Richland Parish, LA |
| Sabine Parish, LA | St. Bernard Parish, LA | St. Charles Parish, LA |
| St. Helena Parish, LA | St. James Parish, LA | St. John the Baptist Parish, LA |
| St. Landry Parish, LA | St. Martin Parish, LA | St. Mary Parish, LA |
| St. Tammany Parish, LA | Tangipahoa Parish, LA | Tensas Parish, LA |
| Terrebonne Parish, LA | Union Parish, LA | Vermilion Parish, LA |
| Vernon Parish, LA | Washington Parish, LA | Webster Parish, LA |
| West Baton Rouge Parish, LA | West Carroll Parish, LA | West Feliciana Parish, LA |
| Winn Parish, LA |
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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Louisiana, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits