Mesothelioma in Aircraft Mechanics
Legally Reviewed By: Sam E. Taylor
Managing Attorney | Mesothelioma & Asbestos in Houston
- Page Last Updated:
- October 24, 2024
Legally Reviewed By: Sam E. Taylor
Managing Attorney | Mesothelioma & Asbestos in Houston
- Page Last Updated:
- October 24, 2024
Aircraft mechanics often worked with components that contained significant amounts of asbestos, putting them at high risk of exposure to the dangerous mineral. Throughout much of the 20th century, Various parts of airplanes commonly contained asbestos, including brake pads, insulation, and engine gaskets.
Widespread asbestos exposure may cause aircraft mechanics to develop mesothelioma or other asbestos-related conditions. Symptoms of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, can take decades after a worker’s initial exposure to asbestos to appear.
The experienced mesothelioma attorneys at The Lanier Law Firm have a long track record of handling and winning asbestos exposure cases, including those involving aircraft mechanics. We’re well-equipped to handle your case’s unique circumstances and help you win the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after working as an aircraft mechanic or aeronautical engineer, contact us online today for a free case evaluation.
Asbestos Use in the Aviation Industry
Because asbestos was cheap, heat-resistant, and durable, it was used in a wide variety of products in many different industries. Aviation was no exception, with virtually all types of aircraft—everything from military jets to commercial airliners—containing some type of asbestos.
The use of asbestos-containing materials in aircraft peaked during the 1960s and 1970s. While newer planes do not contain asbestos, older planes may still have asbestos-containing materials and components, putting the aircraft mechanics working on them at risk for exposure.
Sources of Asbestos Exposure for Aircraft Mechanics
Asbestos becomes dangerous when the materials containing it are damaged or otherwise disturbed. Tasks performed by aircraft mechanics that can expose them to asbestos include the following:
- Handling insulation materials – Asbestos was a staple in many different types of insulation. Aircraft mechanicals working on engines, ducts, or other insulated components can potentially inhale asbestos fibers released from the material.
- Maintenance of older aircraft – Vintage planes likely have a wide variety of asbestos-containing parts and materials on board. Aircraft mechanics should take care to mitigate the risk of exposure when working with older components.
- Sanding or grinding parts – Tasks that disturb or damage the surface of asbestos-containing materials can release asbestos fibers into the air, making it easier for workers to inhale them.
- Repairing or replacing aircraft housings and panels – These aviation components commonly contained asbestos to improve fire resistance. Working with them can potentially dislodge asbestos and expose aircraft mechanics.
Asbestos-Containing Products in the Aviation Industry
Brake pads and linings commonly contained asbestos due to the mineral’s durability and heat resistance. Those used in aircraft sometimes had particularly high levels of asbestos, potentially increasing the risk of mesothelioma in aircraft mechanics who worked with them.
Other aviation components that have historically had asbestos include the following:
- Engine and exhaust system components – Gaskets and seals used to combat leaks often contained asbestos, as did heat shields installed to protect sensitive parts.
- Insulation materials – Thermal insulation around engines, electrical components, and other sensitive areas often contained asbestos. Soundproofing insulation containing asbestos was also installed around cabins to reduce noise.
- Adhesives and sealants – Bonding substances used asbestos to improve their effectiveness and durability. Adhesives and sealants used to assemble various aircraft components can be exposure risks for mechanics.
- Electrical system components – Asbestos was often added to wire insulation and cable coatings to stem overheating and protect vital components.
- Fireproofing materials – Blankets and curtains used in the plane’s interior to mitigate fires often included asbestos. Many instruments also used asbestos-containing panels and shields to protect from heat.
Legal Options for Aircraft Mechanics With Mesothelioma
Many companies responsible for exposing workers to asbestos knew of its dangers but continued using it anyway. Aircraft mechanics diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses have multiple legal avenues to pursue compensation from these companies for their negligence.
Personal Injury Lawsuits
Mesothelioma victims can file asbestos personal injury lawsuits against those responsible for exposing them, including former employers or manufacturers of asbestos-containing materials.
If you can prove you have been exposed to asbestos and developed mesothelioma, a lawsuit can help you recover compensation for damages like medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Depending on state laws, you generally must file suit within one to six years of receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis. Time is of the essence, so consulting a knowledgeable and experienced mesothelioma attorney as soon as possible is critical.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Even with treatment, mesothelioma patients often do not live longer than a few years after their diagnosis. Family members of aircraft mechanics who have died from mesothelioma or other illnesses related to asbestos exposure may be entitled to compensation through wrongful death lawsuits. If your loved one has died from mesothelioma, you may be able to recover funeral and burial costs, lost income, emotional distress, and other damages, depending on state law.
Asbestos Trust Funds
Many asbestos manufacturers have filed for bankruptcy protection. The courts ordered them to establish asbestos trust funds to compensate asbestos-exposure victims. Pursuing a claim through an asbestos trust fund is simpler and less complicated than pursuing a personal injury suit.
Aircraft mechanics can file claims with any funds they can tie to their asbestos exposure through documentation. Each fund operates under different rules, but most require you to file a claim within two to three years of a diagnosis.
Veterans' Benefits
Aircraft mechanics exposed to asbestos during military service may also be eligible for veteran benefits, including health care and disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Those with limited resources may also be eligible for pensions, and families of deceased service members may be entitled to receive survivor benefits.
Vets with an other-than-dishonorable discharge can file a mesothelioma claim with the VA. Service and medical records and a doctor’s written report can help establish that your asbestos-related illness is directly related to your service.
Why Choose The Lanier Law Firm?
Our nationally recognized mesothelioma attorneys have a reputation for success and compassionate service. We pride ourselves on fighting and winning for our clients. We get to understand their unique challenges and handle each case with personalized attention and care.
Experience & Track Record of Success
The Lanier Law Firm has recovered nearly $20 billion in mesothelioma-related settlements and verdicts, including cases on behalf of mechanics. You don’t luck into a number like that—we have deep knowledge of asbestos laws and understand the complexities presented by each unique case.
Legal Resources
Our network of investigators, medical professionals, and expert witnesses helps us build strong cases by fully investigating sources of asbestos exposure. These resources allow us to hold asbestos companies responsible for the harm they’ve done to aircraft mechanics and their families.
No Upfront Fees
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you’re already dealing with so much. On top of everything else, you shouldn’t need to worry about affording the legal representation you need. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay us anything unless and until we win. We will fight tirelessly to recover as much compensation for you as possible.
Contact Us
Were you or a loved one exposed to asbestos as an aircraft mechanic or aeronautical engineer? Don’t fight alone or suffer in silence. Contact us online today for a free case evaluation. Our experienced mesothelioma attorneys will take on the companies responsible for your condition and make sure they pay you every cent you deserve.
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