Not many things are as devastating as learning that you have been exposed to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals that causes mesothelioma. Unfortunately, certain groups of workers are at a greater risk of asbestos exposure while in the course of the work.
If you are exposed to asbestos while advancing your employer’s interests, you may be able to sue for benefits through an asbestos lawsuit. This is especially true if your employer knowingly exposed you to this substance or had reason to suspect that you were likely to be exposed to the substance but failed to take precautions to minimise the risk of exposure.
Here are two instances when you can sue your employer for asbestos exposure:
When your employer is negligent
Your employer is responsible for your safety at work. Thus, if they fail to take reasonable measures or do not invest in reasonable resources to protect employees, then you may hold them accountable should you sustain an injury or develop an illness.
If you were exposed to asbestos while at work and later developed mesothelioma as a result, you may sue your employer for benefits through a mesothelioma claim.
Where there is a misrepresentation
You may hold your employer accountable if you have evidence that they made a false representation. For instance, if your employer knew about the risk of asbestos exposure but failed to inform you about the risk, you may hold them to account through negligent misrepresentation. This kind of claim falls under product liability, which addresses injuries or illnesses caused by defective products.
Safeguarding your rights
By law, every employer is required to ensure that the workplace is devoid of risks and health hazards. This includes the risk of exposure to asbestos. Learning more about mesothelioma claims can help you safeguard your rights and interests while pursuing an asbestos lawsuit against your employer.