Mesothelioma Claims
If you are suffering with mesothelioma you can claim compensation in the form of:
- state benefits (Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit "IIDB"), and
- a one-off lump sum payment under the Pneumoconiosis etc (Workers Compensation) Act 1979 – sometimes referred to as the Dust Fund
- you can also make a civil claim for compensation against those responsible for exposing you to asbestos dust
Make a claim for mesothelioma compensation
Contact our specialist solicitors now on freephone: 0800 011 1166 or use our free, no obligation, online enquiry form and we will get in touch with you.
How much compensation will I get?
The amount you recover under the Dust Fund will depend on your age at the time of diagnosis with mesothelioma. You should make a claim as soon as you are diagnosed and within 12 months of the date you were awarded Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
The amount you recover in a civil claim varies from a minimum of around £45,000 to in excess of £500,000.
Who can claim?
- If you are suffering with mesothelioma then you can claim.
- If a close relative has died of mesothelioma in the past 3 years (eg a spouse or parent) then you can claim as a dependent.
- If you are claiming as a dependent you can also make a claim under the Dust Fund, but must do so within a year of the date of your relative’s death. You will recover a lower amount under the Fund than a living mesothelioma sufferer would receive.
How much will it cost me?
You will not be charged. Our solicitors will deal with you mesothelioma compensation case for you on "no win no fee" basis and if you win we guarantee that you will keep 100% of your compensation.
How long will it take to make a mesothelioma compensation claim?
Claims for mesothelioma victims are usually fast tracked through the Court system. The vast majority of mesothelioma compensation claims are settled by negotiation without the need to attend Court. In most cases an upfront payment of around £45,000 is made within 6 months of the letter of claim.
The Claimant worked as an apprentice plumber with Trollope and Colls Limited from 1948 until 1953. During the course of his work he was exposed to asbestos as the pipe work he often worked on was lagged with asbestos and he was required to remove the asbestos lagging by tearing it and breaking it off. He often undertook work in the boiler rooms where there were large quantities of asbestos lagging and no preventative measures were taken to reduce exposure or warnings given.
In February 2007 the Claimant underwent medical investigation as he was suffering from chest pain, and an X-ray showed a large right side pleural fusion and he underwent a pleurectomy following which a diagnosis of mesothelioma was made. The Claimant was given a reduced life expectancy and contacted our solicitors with a view to pursuing a claim. The Claimant, following his retirement, moved to South Africa and was a resident in South Africa. Our solicitors were able to deal with the preparation of his evidence including expert medical evidence and evidence relating to future treatment and care speedily. In addition we were able to trace the former employers which are still trading to-date and in order to protect his position proceedings were issued in the fast track case in London and the matter has recently been concluded.
The Claimant has received over £100,000 damages to conclude in settlement of his mesothelioma compensation claim.
What if I have served in the Armed Forces and wish to make a mesothelioma compensation claim?
If your only exposure to asbestos was during active service in the armed forces before 1987 then The Crown Proceedings Act prevents you from making a claim. However you may be entitled to a War Pension.
If you were exposed to asbestos after 1987 you can make a civil claim against the armed forces.
If you were exposed to asbestos either before or after your active service you can claim against the civilian employer. We are often contacted by former servicemen and women who were heavily exposed to asbestos while on active service, usually on board ships and who think they are not able to claim for the later, often lighter asbestos exposure that occurred during their civilian work. We have succeeded in recovering compensation in the majority of such claims.
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme replaced the War Pensions Scheme in 2005. You may be eligible for a mesothelioma compensation payment under the old scheme if you were injured as a result of asbestos exposure in the armed forces before 6th April 2005. If your injury occurred after this date you may be eligible to claim under the new scheme.
Useful reading:
How do I make a claim for mesothelioma compensation?
For free legal advice on making a claim for state benefits, war pension or a civil claim through the Courts please contact our solicitors.
- One of our specialist solicitors will give you clear practical advice.
- We aim to see people in their own homes.
- We are a national law firm with expert mesothelioma solicitors covering all regions of the country.
Make an enquiry
Call our dedicated mesothelioma compensation solicitors today on 0800 011 1166 or use our free, no obligation,
online enquiry form and we will get in touch with you.
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