Our client worked from the late 1950s through to the early 1980s as a pipefitter and welder for in excess of 30 employers.
During the course of his employment our client worked on contracts at a variety of power stations and was exposed to significant levels of asbestos dust and fibres. Medical evidence was obtained from a respiratory physician and it was identified that our client was suffering from an asbestos induced illness in the form of asbestosis and asbestos related pleural thickening. There was a 5% risk of our client developing mesothelioma and a 7% risk of developing lung cancer.
It was a considerable challenge to trace all the potential defendants and their employer liability insurers. It was possible to identify the majority of insurers on risk for the duration of our client’s employment history. Despite attempting to negotiate settlement only two former employers adopted a sensible approach and made acceptable pre-issue offers. Having eliminated a number of former employers where no exposure occurred or there was de minimis employment it was still necessary to issue proceedings against eleven separate defendants.
Settlement was eventually agreed between the parties, with our client preferring to settle his claim on a once and for all basis, as opposed to on a provisional damages basis.
Our Partner, Kathryn Hart, specialises in asbestos related illness compensation claims. If you wish to discuss an asbestos related illness such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis or pleural thickening please call us on Freephone 0808 164 0808. Alternatively, you can complete the request a call back form and we will call you.
