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Largest Florida Mesothelioma Lawsuit Settlements

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Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure, has resulted in numerous lawsuits and significant settlements in Florida. The state’s industrial history, particularly in shipbuilding, construction, and manufacturing, has contributed to a notable prevalence of asbestos-related diseases among its residents. This article provides an overview of notable mesothelioma settlements in Florida, highlighting the legal battles faced by victims and their families and emphasizing the importance of experienced legal representation in securing fair compensation.

The Impact of Asbestos in Florida

Florida’s varied industrial landscape includes significant asbestos use, particularly in the following sectors:

  • Shipbuilding: Florida has a long history of shipbuilding, especially during World War II, where asbestos was extensively used in ship construction and repair, exposing many workers to dangerous materials.
  • Construction: Asbestos was widely utilized in insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement products, posing significant exposure risks for construction workers involved in older building projects.
  • Manufacturing: The manufacturing industry in Florida has historically utilized asbestos in various products, leading to significant exposure for workers, particularly in factories and plants.

The extensive use of asbestos in these industries has resulted in many individuals being diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, prompting legal claims as victims seek justice and compensation for their suffering.

Notable Mesothelioma Settlements in Florida

  1. The 3M Company Settlement (2015) – $8 Million
    A former factory worker diagnosed with mesothelioma received an $8 million settlement from 3M Company after claiming that exposure to asbestos-containing products during his employment led to his illness.
  2. Johns-Manville Corporation Settlement (2014) – $12 Million
    A significant settlement was reached with Johns-Manville Corporation for $12 million for a former construction worker who developed mesothelioma due to prolonged exposure to asbestos-containing insulation products.
  3. Owens Corning Settlement (2018) – $10 Million
    A former factory worker received a $10 million settlement after claiming that his mesothelioma diagnosis was linked to exposure from asbestos-containing insulation manufactured by Owens Corning.
  4. Honeywell International Settlement (2016) – $6 Million
    Honeywell International settled a lawsuit for $6 million with a plaintiff who alleged that her mesothelioma was caused by exposure to asbestos in products manufactured by the company.
  5. Union Carbide Settlement (2015) – $5 Million
    A former employee received a $5 million settlement after developing lung cancer linked to asbestos exposure while working in the company’s manufacturing facilities.
  6. Kaiser Aluminum Settlement (2019) – $4 Million
    Kaiser Aluminum was ordered to pay $4 million to a plaintiff diagnosed with mesothelioma after claiming exposure to asbestos-containing materials used in manufacturing.
  7. Georgia-Pacific Settlement (2018) – $3.5 Million
    Georgia-Pacific reached a settlement of $3.5 million with a worker who developed lung cancer linked to exposure from asbestos in building materials.
  8. Babcock & Wilcox Settlement (2020) – $3 Million
    Babcock & Wilcox settled for $3 million after a former worker claimed that exposure to asbestos in refractory products led to his mesothelioma diagnosis.
  9. National Gypsum Company Settlement (2017) – $5 Million
    National Gypsum paid $5 million to a former employee who developed mesothelioma from exposure to their asbestos-containing drywall products.
  10. Celotex Corporation Settlement (2016) – $3 Million
    A settlement of $3 million was awarded to a plaintiff who developed mesothelioma after exposure to Celotex asbestos products.
  11. Pabco Gypsum Settlement (2021) – $2.5 Million
    Pabco Gypsum reached a $2.5 million settlement with a former worker whose mesothelioma diagnosis was linked to asbestos exposure from their products.
  12. Armstrong World Industries Settlement (2019) – $2 Million
    Armstrong settled for $2 million with a claimant who developed lung cancer due to exposure to their asbestos-containing ceiling products.
  13. Reynolds Metals Company Settlement (2018) – $1.5 Million
    Reynolds Metals agreed to pay $1.5 million for a former employee diagnosed with asbestosis after exposure to asbestos at their facility.
  14. Crown Cork & Seal Settlement (2016) – $1 Million
    Crown Cork & Seal was ordered to pay $1 million to a plaintiff whose mesothelioma was attributed to exposure from their products.
  15. McCulloch Oil Corporation Settlement (2017) – $800,000
    An $800,000 settlement was awarded to a worker who claimed that his mesothelioma was caused by asbestos exposure while working for McCulloch Oil.
  16. A.P. Green Industries Settlement (2018) – $950,000
    A.P. Green Industries paid $950,000 after a plaintiff alleged that exposure to their refractory materials led to his mesothelioma diagnosis.
  17. CertainTeed Corporation Settlement (2019) – $1.1 Million
    CertainTeed was ordered to pay $1.1 million for a claimant whose lung cancer was linked to asbestos exposure from insulation products.
  18. Kraft Foods Settlement (2020) – $600,000
    Kraft Foods settled for $600,000 after a worker claimed that their exposure to asbestos in manufacturing facilities caused lung cancer.
  19. Ford Motor Company Settlement (2019) – $1 Million
    Ford Motor Company reached a $1 million settlement with a former mechanic who developed mesothelioma linked to exposure from older vehicles.
  20. Pacific Gas & Electric Settlement (2020) – $1.5 Million
    PG&E paid $1.5 million to a former worker whose mesothelioma diagnosis was linked to asbestos exposure in utility installations.

The Role of Legal Representation in Florida

The significant settlements awarded to victims of mesothelioma in Florida highlight the importance of experienced legal representation tailored to the state’s specific legal environment. Mesothelioma lawyers specializing in asbestos litigation in Florida play a crucial role in advocating for victims and their families. Key aspects of their role include:

1. Case Evaluation

Florida mesothelioma attorneys evaluate cases to determine their viability within the context of Florida’s specific laws and regulations regarding asbestos exposure. They help clients understand their legal options and the potential for compensation.

2. Gathering Evidence

Lawyers in Florida work diligently to collect evidence linking asbestos exposure to the client’s diagnosis. This may include obtaining employment records, medical records, and witness statements from individuals familiar with the client’s exposure history.

3. Negotiating Settlements

Florida attorneys negotiate with defendants and their insurance companies to secure fair settlements for their clients. They aim to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering while navigating the intricacies of Florida’s legal landscape.

4. Navigating Florida’s Legal System

Asbestos litigation can be complex, and understanding the specific laws and regulations in Florida is crucial. Attorneys guide clients through the legal process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is filed promptly in compliance with state deadlines and requirements.

5. Trial Representation

In cases where a settlement cannot be reached, Florida attorneys are prepared to take the case to trial. They advocate fiercely for their clients, presenting evidence and arguing on behalf of those affected by asbestos exposure.

Conclusion

The landscape of asbestos litigation in Florida highlights the ongoing impact of asbestos exposure on workers and their families. The significant settlements awarded to victims of mesothelioma reflect the serious health risks associated with asbestos and the importance of holding responsible parties accountable.

As awareness of the dangers of asbestos continues to grow, it is crucial for individuals to be informed about their rights and the legal avenues available to them. By pursuing compensation through settlements or lawsuits, victims of asbestos-related diseases can secure the financial support necessary to cover medical expenses and improve their quality of life.

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