A diagnosis of mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease is devastating. According to Asbestos.com, nearly 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with this rare but aggressive cancer each year, often decades after they were exposed on a job site. This invisible injury leaves you worried about your health and your family’s future.
Many Minnesota workers in this situation fear too much time has passed to seek help. However, state workers compensation law has specific rules for these situations that can provide a path to the benefits you need.
It is often not too late to seek help
Is it too late to file a claim for exposure that happened decades ago? For most occupational diseases, the answer is no. The statute of limitations usually does not begin on the date you were exposed.
Instead, Minnesota’s “discovery rule” means the timeline begins when you are diagnosed and know, or should have known, that your illness was work-related. This allows many to pursue claims long after retiring.
Connecting your diagnosis to past exposure
The primary challenge is proving your illness resulted from exposure at a specific job. Building a strong case requires a thorough investigation to gather evidence, such as:
- A detailed work history identifying past employers, job sites and duties.
- Medical records from a specialist that clearly link your diagnosis to asbestos.
- Testimony from former co-workers who can establish that asbestos was present in the workplace.
Each of these pieces is a vital part of a successful claim.
Exposed to asbestos at work? Midwest Disability LLC’s top-rated Minnesota workers’ compensation team has helped 10,000+ injured workers recover benefits. We handle claims, denials, hearings, and settlements statewide, often by phone or Zoom, so you can focus on healing. Free consultation. No fees unless we recover benefits. 888-387-4135.
What a successful claim can provide
Filing a workers compensation claim for an asbestos-related disease can provide critical financial support. A successful claim can provide benefits for your ongoing medical care, including cancer treatments and hospital stays.
It can also provide wage loss payments to replace your income. Additionally, if the worker has passed away, their dependents may be eligible for benefits.
Navigating a complex diagnosis and claim
Receiving a diagnosis for an asbestos-related illness is life-changing, and the thought of a complex legal process can be difficult to face. You do not have to handle this burden by yourself.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an illness due to workplace asbestos exposure, consider speaking with a compassionate and experienced attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and explore your available options.
