Mesothelioma Compensation Options in Michigan
There are several options available for mesothelioma compensation in Michigan, including lawsuits, settlements, and trust funds. In this article, we will discuss these options in detail. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Michigan has a long history of asbestos exposure, with many residents and workers exposed to the substance in a variety of industries, including shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and construction.
Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Michigan
One of the most common ways to seek compensation for mesothelioma in Michigan is through a lawsuit. In a mesothelioma lawsuit, the plaintiff (the person with the cancer) sues the defendant (usually the company that manufactured or used the asbestos) for damages related to their illness. Mesothelioma lawsuits in Michigan typically fall into one of two categories: personal injury lawsuits or wrongful death lawsuits.
Personal injury lawsuits are filed by people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure. These lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the illness. In Michigan, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is three years from the date of diagnosis.
Wrongful death lawsuits are filed by the family members of people who have died as a result of mesothelioma. These lawsuits seek compensation for the loss of the loved one’s financial support, as well as for their pain and suffering. In Michigan, the statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits is also three years from the date of death.
Mesothelioma Settlements in Michigan
In addition to lawsuits, mesothelioma victims in Michigan may also be able to obtain compensation through a settlement. A settlement is an agreement between the plaintiff and the defendant in which the defendant agrees to pay a certain amount of money to the plaintiff in exchange for dropping the lawsuit. Settlements can be reached at any point during the litigation process, including before or after a trial.
One advantage of a settlement is that it can be faster and less expensive than a lawsuit. Settlements also allow the plaintiff to avoid the uncertainty and stress of a trial. However, settlements are not always the best option for every mesothelioma victim, as they may not provide as much compensation as a successful lawsuit.
Mesothelioma Trust Funds in Michigan
Mesothelioma trust funds are another option for compensation in Michigan. These funds were established by companies that used asbestos and filed for bankruptcy as a way to compensate victims of asbestos exposure. When a company files for bankruptcy, they are required to set aside a portion of their assets into a trust fund to compensate current and future mesothelioma victims.
Michigan has several mesothelioma trust funds available, including the Detroit Diesel Settlement Trust, the Owens Corning/Fibreboard Trust, and the W.R. Grace & Co. Asbestos Personal Injury Trust. To be eligible for compensation from a trust fund, the victim must meet certain criteria, such as having worked for a company that used asbestos or having been exposed to asbestos in a certain location.
Average Mesothelioma Compensation Amounts in Michigan
Mesothelioma compensation amounts in Michigan can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the severity of the illness, the length of exposure to asbestos, and the specific circumstances of the case. However, it is important to note that compensation for mesothelioma can be significant, as this is a highly aggressive and deadly cancer that is directly linked to exposure to asbestos.
To get an idea of the potential compensation for mesothelioma in Michigan, it is useful to look at some recent settlements and verdicts in the state. However, it is important to keep in mind that these amounts may not be typical or indicative of what a specific individual may receive, as each case is unique and compensation amounts are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Recent Mesothelioma Settlements and Verdicts in Michigan
- In 2019, a Michigan jury awarded $8.4 million to a man who developed mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos in brake linings while working as a mechanic. The defendant in the case, a brake lining manufacturer, was found to be negligent in failing to warn the plaintiff about the dangers of asbestos exposure.
- In 2018, a Michigan jury awarded $6.5 million to the family of a man who died from mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos in insulation and other building materials while working as a plumber. The defendant in the case, a company that manufactured asbestos-containing insulation products, was found to be responsible for the plaintiff’s exposure to asbestos.
- In 2017, a Michigan jury awarded $3.5 million to the family of a man who died from mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos while working as a drywaller. The defendant in the case, a manufacturer of joint compound and other construction materials that contained asbestos, was found to be negligent in failing to warn the plaintiff about the dangers of asbestos exposure.
It is important to note that these settlements and verdicts are just a few examples of mesothelioma compensation amounts in Michigan and may not reflect the outcomes of other cases. The compensation amount in each mesothelioma case is unique and depends on various factors, such as the extent of the illness, the degree of negligence by the responsible party, and the damages suffered by the victim and their family.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Michigan, there are several options available for compensation. Mesothelioma lawsuits, settlements, and trust funds can all provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the illness. It is important to consult with an experienced Michigan Mesothelioma lawyer to determine which option is best for your specific case.
