Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos. Unfortunately, the symptoms of mesothelioma often do not appear until decades after exposure, which means that many people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have already retired or are close to retirement age. As a result, mesothelioma settlements can be quite substantial, as they may need to cover medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what damages are typically awarded in mesothelioma settlements, as the amount of compensation can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the severity of the illness, the age and health of the victim, and the circumstances surrounding the asbestos exposure. However, there are some general guidelines that can help give you an idea of what to expect.
One of the key factors that can affect the size of a mesothelioma settlement is the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Mesothelioma is typically divided into four stages, with stage one being the earliest and most treatable stage, and stage four being the most advanced and difficult to treat. If a victim is diagnosed with mesothelioma in the early stages of the disease, they may be able to undergo surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, which can help extend their life and improve their quality of life. In these cases, the settlement may be smaller, as the victim may have a better chance of surviving for longer and returning to work.
On the other hand, if a victim is diagnosed with mesothelioma in the later stages of the disease, they may not be able to undergo surgery or other treatments, and their life expectancy may be significantly reduced. In these cases, the settlement may be larger, as the victim may require long-term care and may not be able to work or support their family.
Another factor that can affect the size of a mesothelioma settlement is the age and health of the victim. Generally speaking, younger victims who are otherwise healthy may be able to recover more compensation than older victims or those with pre-existing health conditions. This is because younger victims may have a longer life expectancy and may have more earning potential than older victims, who may be closer to retirement age.
The circumstances surrounding the asbestos exposure can also play a role in determining the size of a mesothelioma settlement. For example, if the victim was exposed to asbestos while working for a company that knew about the dangers of asbestos but failed to warn their employees or provide protective equipment, the settlement may be larger than if the victim was exposed to asbestos in a less clear-cut situation. Similarly, if the victim was exposed to asbestos while serving in the military, they may be entitled to additional compensation from the government.
Overall, mesothelioma settlements can vary widely depending on a variety of factors. However, it is not uncommon for settlements to reach into the millions of dollars, particularly in cases where the victim has a short life expectancy or significant medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to speak to an experienced mesothelioma attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.
