Personal Injury Attorney for Asbestos Injuries

August 14, 2017

Colorado Springs

(719) 309-3000

Grand Junction

(970) 287-1173

Learn More About Asbestos

There are commercials aired on television concerning about contacting a personal injury attorney if you are injured by asbestos. This is because the injuries can be quite severe for some people and many people could have legal recourse when they have an experienced attorney to help them. The first step is learning more about asbestos and the injuries it might cause.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a term used to describe certain fibrous minerals that are naturally occurring. There are six that fall under the asbestos umbrella:

  • Chrysotile
  • Amosite
  • Tremolite
  • Crocidolite
  • Anthophyllite
  • Actinolite

The fibrous minerals are very resistant and durable, however, they are microscopic. Potential problems with health might result when a person breathes in asbestos fibers. In some cases, skin contact can also result in irritation.

Asbestos was used for years in residential spaces, but it has since been deemed dangerous and most places have removed it due to this. However, those living in very old homes or apartments might find certain asbestos products still around, such as floor tiles, roofing shingles and ceiling materials. If these products are present, or any others that contain asbestos, you are at risk for exposure.

Possible Asbestos Injuries

The most common injury is varying degrees of damage to the lungs due to breathing in the fibers. It is possible for people to experience inflammation, scarring and breathing issues as a result. A condition called asbestosis may develop over time. This can cause coughing, shortness of breath, fluid in the lungs, pleural thickening and permanent lung damage.

Certain cancers, including mesothelioma and lung cancer, might also occur with asbestos exposure due to research. Some research suggests that exposure might also increase the risk of the following cancers:

  • Colorectal cancer
  • Gastrointestinal cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Gallbladder cancer
  • Throat cancer
  • Esophageal cancer

Should I Call a Personal Injury Attorney for an Asbestos Injury?

Asbestos injuries can be quite complex for some people. If you want to explore legal recourse, contacting a personal injury lawyer is the first step. Of course, you should also see your healthcare provider and make sure to completely document the injuries you sustained due to asbestos.