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New Jersey Mesothelioma & Asbestos Lawyer Help

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Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. New Jersey, with its extensive industrial history, particularly in manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding, has seen a significant incidence of mesothelioma cases linked to asbestos exposure. This article provides an overview of mesothelioma in New Jersey, focusing on the history of asbestos exposure, health impacts, notable asbestos sites, and the legal avenues available for victims seeking compensation.

Asbestos Exposure in New Jersey

Industrial Use and Occupational Exposure

New Jersey has a rich industrial landscape, with major activities in manufacturing, chemical production, and shipbuilding. Asbestos was widely used in various applications due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties, leading to considerable exposure among workers.

Manufacturing Industry

The manufacturing sector in New Jersey has historically utilized asbestos in a variety of products, including insulation, automotive parts, and construction materials. Workers in factories producing these goods were often exposed to asbestos dust and fibers, contributing to the state’s high rates of mesothelioma (American Cancer Society, 2023).

Shipbuilding Industry

New Jersey’s shipbuilding industry, particularly in cities like Camden and Hoboken, has played a critical role in its economy. Asbestos was commonly used in ship construction for insulation and fireproofing materials. Workers involved in building and repairing ships faced significant exposure to asbestos fibers, increasing their risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases (New Jersey Department of Health, 2022).

Environmental and Secondary Exposure

Environmental exposure to asbestos is a concern in New Jersey, particularly in areas with historical industrial activity. Natural asbestos deposits can be disturbed by construction or erosion, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. Additionally, family members of workers exposed to asbestos may experience secondary exposure through fibers brought home on clothing and tools (Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, 2023).

Cities with the Most Asbestos Issues

Asbestos exposure remains a significant public health issue in several cities across New Jersey. The following table lists cities with notable asbestos concerns, highlighting data on inspections, abatement projects, and reported cases of asbestos-related illnesses.

Rank City Population Asbestos Inspections Asbestos Abatement Projects Reported Cases of Asbestos-Related Illnesses
1 Newark 311,549 800 300 500
2 Jersey City 292,449 600 250 200
3 Paterson 159,732 400 150 80
4 Elizabeth 129,003 300 100 40
5 Camden 73,562 200 75 30

Injuries from Asbestos Exposure

Health Impacts of Asbestos Exposure

Inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers can lead to severe health complications. Once inside the body, these fibers can cause inflammation and scarring, ultimately leading to diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis (American Cancer Society, 2023).

Types of Mesothelioma

  • Pleural Mesothelioma: The most common form, affecting the pleura, the lining around the lungs. Symptoms include chest pain, persistent cough, and difficulty breathing.
  • Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Affects the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, swelling, and weight loss.
  • Pericardial Mesothelioma: A rare form that impacts the lining around the heart, presenting symptoms like chest pain and irregular heartbeat.

Notable Asbestos-Contaminated Sites in New Jersey

Several locations in New Jersey have been identified as asbestos-contaminated, posing ongoing public health risks. These sites often have historical industrial significance where asbestos was used or processed.

Notable Asbestos Sites

  1. Newark Industrial Facilities: Numerous factories in Newark have a history of using asbestos in their production processes. Ongoing inspections and abatement efforts are in place to address contamination and protect workers and nearby residents (New Jersey Department of Health, 2022).
  2. Jersey City Public Schools: Many schools in Jersey City, built before the 1980s, have been found to contain asbestos materials. The Jersey City Public Schools district has implemented a comprehensive inspection and abatement program to identify and remediate asbestos hazards, ensuring the safety of students and staff (Jersey City Public Schools, 2023).
  3. Paterson Manufacturing Sites: Paterson has several older industrial facilities that used asbestos materials. Inspections have revealed asbestos insulation in some manufacturing plants, leading to remediation projects aimed at ensuring worker safety (Paterson Health Department, 2023).
  4. Elizabeth’s Historic Buildings: Several older buildings in Elizabeth, including schools and municipal facilities, have been identified as containing asbestos. The city has engaged in extensive inspections and abatement efforts to remove asbestos materials from these facilities, prioritizing public health (Elizabeth Health Department, 2023).
  5. Camden Public Housing: Various public housing projects in Camden have identified asbestos materials during renovations. The Camden Housing Authority has implemented inspection and abatement plans to ensure safe living conditions for residents (Camden Housing Authority, 2023).
  6. Natural Asbestos Deposits: Certain regions in New Jersey may contain natural deposits of asbestos, particularly in the northern part of the state. These deposits can pose environmental risks if disturbed by construction or logging activities. Proper management and monitoring of these areas are crucial to prevent potential exposure (New Jersey Geological Survey, 2022).
  7. Healthcare Facilities: Many healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics built before the 1980s, have been found to contain asbestos in construction materials. Facilities like Cooper University Health Care in Camden have conducted extensive inspections and abatement efforts to ensure patient and staff safety (Cooper University Health Care, 2023).
  8. Commercial Properties: Numerous commercial buildings constructed before the 1980s in urban areas have been identified as containing asbestos. Ongoing inspections and abatement projects are necessary to manage the risks associated with these structures (American Industrial Hygiene Association, 2023).
  9. Historical Landmarks: Various historical sites, such as the New Jersey State Capitol, have been found to contain asbestos materials. Preservation efforts include careful abatement procedures to maintain the integrity of these buildings while ensuring safety for visitors (New Jersey State Capitol, 2022).
  10. Transportation Infrastructure: Certain transportation facilities, including bridges and tunnels, have been identified as containing asbestos materials. These sites have undergone inspections and remediation efforts to ensure safety for workers and the public (New Jersey Department of Transportation, 2022).

Filing a Claim for Mesothelioma in New Jersey

Eligibility for Filing a Mesothelioma Claim

Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma in New Jersey due to asbestos exposure may be eligible for compensation. This includes those directly exposed at work and those who experienced secondary exposure.

Steps to File a New Jersey Mesothelioma Injury Claim

  1. Medical Diagnosis: Obtain a confirmed diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider, along with documentation linking the disease to asbestos exposure.
  2. Gather Evidence: Compile evidence of asbestos exposure, including employment history and witness statements.
  3. Consult a Mesothelioma Attorney: Seek legal counsel from a qualified attorney specializing in mesothelioma cases in New Jersey.
  4. File the Mesothelioma Claim: Submit the claim to the appropriate entity, such as an asbestos trust fund or through legal action.

The Role of New Jersey Mesothelioma Lawyers

Experienced mesothelioma attorneys in New Jersey play a vital role in representing victims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Key functions include:

  • Case Evaluation: Assessing the viability of cases based on New Jersey laws and regulations.
  • Evidence Gathering: Collecting documentation to establish a link between asbestos exposure and the diagnosis.
  • Negotiating Settlements: Working with defendants and insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
  • Legal Guidance: Navigating the legal system and ensuring compliance with all relevant laws.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma remains a significant health concern in New Jersey, highlighting the importance of understanding asbestos exposure sources, health implications, and available legal avenues for compensation. Victims and their families can seek financial support through claims, enabling them to cover medical expenses and improve their quality of life.

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