I am a construction worker that has been exposed to asbestos and developed asbestosis. Do I qualify for workers comp?

Question: I have developed asbestosis as a result of exposure to asbestos I had at my old job (construction, we did a lot with asbestos insulation and tiling in the 1970’s). Its been a long time since I worked with that employer, but I know the asbestos exposure happened because of that job, since a bunch of my old coworkers got asbestosis or mesothelioma and stuff too. Can I get worker’s compensation to pay for my injuries and medical care?

Response: Although you have not worked for your employer for many years, in most jurisdictions worker’s compensation laws have a very long statute of limitations for asbestos related injuries that arose out of the course of employment. However, in order to recover you must be able to approve that the exposure to the asbestos arose out of and in the course of your employment. Evidence that your employer or work industry made asbestos exposure likely may be sufficient. You should speak with a worker’s compensation attorney to discuss your options, since asbestos cases can be difficult to prove due to the long lapse of time between the exposure and the development of the illness.

Answered by Christy Rakoczy

Additional Resources:

• Asbestos Lawyers
• Asbestos Lawsuits

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