North Carolina Asbestos Lung Cancer Lawyers

Discovering you have asbestos-related lung cancer turns your world upside-down. During this challenging time, Ward Black Law’s asbestos lung cancer lawyers stand ready to fight relentlessly for your rights. We have more than 30 years of experience handling asbestos claims in North Carolina, from our home in Greensboro to all corners of the state.

Our mission is to provide you with comprehensive legal support and be your champion in your fight for maximum compensation – just like we have for more than 1,000 other people in North Carolina who have suffered negative consequences from asbestos exposure. Our experience with asbestos claims means we understand your struggle, and we will make the legal process as painless for you as possible.

Whether you’re in North Carolina or elsewhere beyond the state, and you’ve been affected by asbestos exposure, call us or complete our online form for a free and confidential case review. We’re here to offer our expertise and support, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

How Asbestos Causes Lung Cancer

The term “asbestos” refers to a group of minerals with heat-resistant and insulating properties. Even after the dangerous effects of asbestos exposure were known, many industries continued to use it in products because of these properties.

Unfortunately, when materials containing asbestos degrade or are disturbed, they release tiny fibers people can inhale. Once these fibers lodge in the lung tissue, they cause scarring and inflammation, known as asbestosis. Eventually, these fibers can damage cells’ DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth – a hallmark of cancer.

This process, from asbestos exposure to lung cancer development, can span decades, making it difficult to diagnose the illness. Another challenge is that asbestos-related lung cancer symptoms often mimic other respiratory diseases. It’s crucial to inform your doctor about past asbestos exposure if you have symptoms like persistent coughing, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss.

Types of Lung Cancer Asbestos Causes

There are two main types of lung cancer, and research has consistently demonstrated a link between asbestos exposure and an increased risk of developing lung cancer. The two main types of lung cancer are:

• Small-Cell Lung Cancer – This type of lung cancer accounts for about 10 to 15 percent of all lung cancer cases. It’s aggressive and spreads quickly to other parts of the body.
• Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer – This type of lung cancer is the most common, making up about 85 to 90 percent of lung cancer cases. Non-small-cell lung cancer includes subtypes such as adenocarcinoma (cancer of the glands lining the lungs), squamous cell carcinoma (a type of cancer that forms in scar tissue), and large cell carcinoma (a particularly aggressive type of lung cancer).

Seeking Compensation for Your Asbestos Lung Cancer in North Carolina

Patients diagnosed with asbestos-related lung cancer in North Carolina often have many opportunities for pursuing compensation, including:

• Asbestos Trust Claims – Because many companies that made or used asbestos products knew they were dangerous long before the general public was made aware, the courts have ordered them to compensate people who have developed asbestos-related cancers. These trusts continue to operate even if the company no longer exists. If you meet the eligibility criteria, our asbestos lawyers at Ward Black Law can assist you in filing claims with the appropriate trusts.
• Personal Injury Lawsuits – If you were exposed to asbestos at your home, workplace, or job site, you might have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. If you file a personal injury lawsuit, you must prove that someone other than your employer knew about the risk of asbestos exposure and failed to take appropriate safety measures. Our skilled team can help build a strong case for you.
• Workers’ Compensation Claims – If your asbestos exposure occurred at your job, you may have the right to workers’ compensation benefits to cover your treatment expenses and replace part of your lost wages. Even though workers’ compensation is a no-fault benefit in North Carolina, employers often contest these claims to avoid costs. You can present a compelling case with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney from Ward Black Law.
• Wrongful Death Claims – If a close relative died from an asbestos-related illness, you may be eligible to file trust claims, a wrongful death lawsuit, and asbestos trust claims. These cases can be intricate and challenging, so you need our experienced asbestos lawyers to guide you every step of the way.

Jobs with Increased Risk of Asbestos Exposure and Lung Cancer

Workers in several industries have historically had a high risk of asbestos exposure due to the material’s widespread use in past decades. These industries include:

• Construction
• Shipbuilding
• Mining
• Power Plants
• Automotive 
• Manufacturing
• Railroads
• Oil Refineries
• Steel Mills
• U.S. Military (particularly the Navy)

How to File an Asbestos Lung Cancer Lawsuit

Filing an asbestos lawsuit involves several key steps. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

• Case Review – The first step is to contact our office. You’ll discuss your asbestos exposure history and any related medical diagnoses during this free meeting which can take place in person or by phone.
• Investigation – The asbestos lawyers and staff can then investigate your claim. This step often involves gathering medical records, your employment history, and other evidence of asbestos exposure.
• Filing a Complaint and Submitting Claims to Asbestos Trusts – If the investigation supports your claim, your attorney can file a complaint for you. The complaint outlines your case against the defendants, typically companies that exposed you to asbestos.
• Discovery – During the discovery phase, both sides exchange information. It may involve answering written questions, producing documents, and giving oral testimony in a deposition.
• Negotiation and Settlement – The overwhelming percentage of asbestos lawsuits settle out of court before a trial is necessary. Your attorney can negotiate with the defendants or their insurers to reach a fair settlement.
• Trial – If the defendants won’t agree to a reasonable settlement, the case can go to trial but the choice to proceed further is yours. Your attorney can present evidence and argue your case before a judge or jury.
• Verdict or Appeal – The judge or jury will decide on your case. If you’re unsatisfied with the verdict, you may be able to appeal.

When to File Asbestos Claims

North Carolina’s statute of limitations in many instances gives you three years from your diagnosis date to file a lawsuit. Time limits for workers’ comp trust claims and lawsuits depend on the circumstances of your exposure and the date of your diagnosis. However, there may be other limitations on your case, so it’s best to speak to our attorneys as soon as possible. Waiting too long to retain a lawyer could cost you dearly.

Asbestos Lung Cancer Settlements

While every asbestos lung cancer case is different, successful settlements in these cases typically include compensation for many kinds of losses. With the right legal team supporting you, you could recover compensation for the following:

• Medical bills, including the cost of future treatments
• Lost wages
• Reduced future earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Diminished quality of life