Workers who develop silicosis after exposure to respirable crystalline silica may be eligible to file a legal claim for compensation. This includes people who have worked with engineered stone and quartz countertops and developed a related illness. In certain circumstances, surviving family members may also have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in Chicago. However, eligibility depends on your medical condition and the circumstances of your exposure.
Not everyone who has been exposed to silica dust will qualify for a lawsuit. There are certain legal requirements that must be satisfied before compensation can be recovered. Read on to learn who may qualify for a silicosis claim and how our experienced Chicago product liability lawyers can help determine your options.
Workers Who May Qualify for a Silicosis Lawsuit
Silicosis is an incurable lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust. Workers who regularly handle silica-containing materials can face significant health risks.
Engineered stone countertop fabrication is one industry where serious silica exposure has been documented.
Workers who may qualify for a claim include:
- Countertop fabricators who cut engineered stone slabs
- Stone polishers exposed to silica dust
- Quartz countertop installers
- Fabrication shop employees who handle silica-containing products
- Workers who grind and drill engineered stone
However, working in one of these occupations does not automatically mean you have a valid lawsuit. You will generally need evidence connecting your illness to silica exposure and a legal basis for holding another party responsible.
Do I Need a Silicosis Diagnosis To File a Claim?
A confirmed medical diagnosis is generally important when pursuing compensation for silicosis, but may not be necessary in every case depending on the facts and circumstances of your situation.
Some workers experience breathing difficulties after years of exposure, while others develop serious health problems much sooner. If you believe your symptoms are connected to silica dust, seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider may use chest imaging and other diagnostic testing to determine whether you have developed silicosis.
Keep in mind that some workers develop other silica-related conditions, which may also support potential legal claims. A qualified attorney can review your medical records to help determine whether your condition may qualify.
Can Family Members File a Silicosis Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Yes, certain family members may have legal options if a loved one dies from silicosis caused by another party’s wrongful conduct.
A wrongful death lawsuit seeks compensation for losses resulting from the person’s death. Depending on state law, eligible claimants may include a surviving spouse or children. In some states, the deceased person’s estate must bring the action.
Compensation may be available for things like funeral expenses and lost financial support in these cases, as well as for more personal losses like the loss of the deceased’s care and presence.
How Does an Attorney Determine Silicosis Claim Eligibility?
Our attorneys can internally investigate whether your illness may be connected to a company’s negligence or a defective product, to name two potential causes of action.
This often involves reviewing your employment history and identifying the engineered stone products you handled. Your lawyer may also examine available evidence concerning the manufacturer’s warnings about silica exposure.
Workers’ compensation benefits may be available separately. However, restrictions on suing an employer do not necessarily prevent claims against responsible third parties, so it’s worth taking the time to look into all of your options.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer for More Information About Your Silicosis Lawsuit
If you developed silicosis after working with engineered stone countertops, you may be eligible to pursue compensation. Meyers & Flowers can help you determine your best course of action and demand maximum money damages from everyone who shares liability.
Give us a call today for a free consultation at (630) 576-9696. We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay attorney’s fees if we recover compensation for you.