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Things That May Hurt Pursuing Recovery in a Mesothelioma Case

Posted on behalf of Peter T. Nicholl in Mesothelioma & Asbestos Published on February 12, 2020 and updated on March 7, 2022.

construction worker coughingThe legal options available to mesothelioma victims and their families depends on the source of asbestos exposure and how the condition has progressed since being diagnosed. In most cases, you may be eligible to seek financial recovery for expenses related to ongoing care and treatment. However, it is important to avoid making certain mistakes that may hurt your chances at obtaining compensation.

Our Maryland mesothelioma attorneys are ready to help guide you through the legal process. We know what it takes to build a strong case and look forward to discussing your rights in a free consultation.

Lack of Evidence Proving Asbestos Exposure

The key to a successful mesothelioma case is proving your past exposure to asbestos. This could include a previous job where you could have come into contact with asbestos-related materials or having lived in a home with someone who worked with asbestos, among other locations.

Since a mesothelioma diagnosis may come decades after exposure, tracing back your exposure to a specific location can become quite difficult for many victims. It is important to also consider any products you may have used over your lifetime that possibly contained asbestos.

Not Following Treatment Options

Mesothelioma treatment options depend on the stage of your cancer, its possible spread and your overall health. It is important that you follow your doctor’s recommended course of treatment, both for your health and your ability to recover compensation.

If you fail to follow your doctor’s treatment plan, this can be used against you as you pursue a mesothelioma claim. The other side may say your actions caused your condition to worsen, and that you would not have such an advanced illness if you had followed the treatment plan laid out by your doctor.

Waiting Too Long to Take Legal Action

You only have a certain amount of time to file a mesothelioma claim. Once you become aware of your mesothelioma diagnosis or should have known your condition was caused by asbestos exposure, you generally have three years to take legal action in the state of Maryland.

If you wait beyond this three-year window, you are likely to lose your ability to pursue compensation.

Not Consulting a Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you need to consult a lawyer who is experienced in handling these types of cases. He or she will know what evidence is needed to prove asbestos exposure and link it to your illness.

He or she could also inform you of the types of compensation you may be able to recover, such as medical expenses, lost wages, future earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

A mesothelioma lawyer is even a great asset to you during the negotiations and settlement process. He or she will make sure all settlement offers are favorable before accepting, in order to ensure you receive fair compensation for the harm you have suffered.

Contact Us to Review Your Situation

Our attorneys at Peter T. Nicholl Law Offices are prepared to review your situation to determine if you have a viable case for compensation during a free, no-obligation legal consultation.

There are no upfront fees and payment is only due if we recover compensation for you.

Call 410-244-7005 or complete our Free Case Review form.