Mesothelioma Settlement

Mesothelioma Settlement

A mesothelioma settlement is a financial agreement between a mesothelioma victim (or their family) and the companies responsible for asbestos exposure. Instead of going to trial, most mesothelioma lawsuits are resolved through settlements because they are faster, less risky, and still offer meaningful compensation. On average, mesothelioma settlements range from $1 million to $2 million, helping families manage expenses related to treatment, lost wages, and other costs caused by this aggressive cancer.

According to Mealey’s Litigation Report, while the average trial verdict in a mesothelioma case is $20.7 million, these outcomes involve lengthy court proceedings and carry the risk of appeal. This is why many victims and their legal teams prefer settlements; they provide quicker access to funds without the uncertainty of a courtroom battle.

Each case is unique, and several factors can influence the value of a settlement, including the victim’s medical history, work history, level of asbestos exposure, and the defendant’s litigation background. A qualified mesothelioma lawyer can investigate these details to build a strong case and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

Whether you are filing a personal injury claim or a wrongful death lawsuit, understanding how mesothelioma settlements work is essential to securing justice. Legal experts agree that your occupational history and product exposure details determine the value of your claim. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, speaking with an experienced asbestos attorney can help you pursue the compensation you deserve, without the stress of a lengthy trial

What Are The Average Mesothelioma Settlement and Verdict Amounts

The average mesothelioma settlement ranges from $1 million to $2 million, while the average trial verdict reaches approximately $20.7 million, based on data from Mealey’s Litigation Report. Settlement amounts vary widely depending on the unique details of each case. Many mesothelioma patients and their families have received settlements or jury awards totaling millions of dollars.

“Settlements often provide compensation more quickly than going through a full lawsuit,” explains Joe Lahav, an attorney and legal advisor at Asbestos.com. “Although verdicts usually result in higher overall compensation, most mesothelioma cases are resolved through settlements before trial.”

In addition to settlements and verdicts, there are other financial support options available for mesothelioma survivors. These include payouts from asbestos trust funds set up by bankrupt companies and benefits for veterans through VA claims. Consulting with an experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you explore all available resources and determine the best path for you and your family.

Factors That Influence Mesothelioma Settlement Amounts

Several factors can influence the amount of compensation a mesothelioma patient may receive in a settlement or verdict. Each case is unique, and the final payout depends on many variables, including the following:

Case Strength:

• Strong, well-documented evidence showing that asbestos exposure caused your illness can lead to a higher settlement.

Company Liability and Negligence:

• If the companies involved are found to be negligent or liable, they may be required to pay additional compensation.

Compensatory and Punitive Damages:

• Jurors often award compensatory damages for medical costs, lost income, and suffering.
• In some cases, punitive damages are added to punish a company for extreme negligence.

Jurisdiction:

• The location where the lawsuit is filed can affect the outcome.
• Some states have a history of awarding larger settlements or verdicts in mesothelioma cases.

Medical Costs, Lost Wages, and Illness Severity:

• The more serious the diagnosis, the greater the financial and emotional impact, which often results in higher compensation.

Number of Defendants:

• Cases involving multiple companies that exposed the victim to asbestos may lead to larger total settlements, as each party may be held partly responsible.

Asbestos Trust Fund Payouts:

• If the patient has already received money from asbestos trust funds, that amount may be factored into the overall compensation received through the lawsuit.

What to Expect During the Asbestos Settlement Process

The asbestos settlement process can be complex, but an experienced mesothelioma lawyer will help guide you through each step. Understanding what to expect can ease stress and prepare you for what lies ahead.

The process begins when you contact a skilled mesothelioma attorney. Your lawyer will review your case, gather medical records, and identify companies responsible for your asbestos exposure. They will then file a legal claim on your behalf.

After the lawsuit is filed, the defendants have 30 days to respond. Some companies may offer an early settlement, but most initially deny liability and choose to defend themselves.

Next comes the discovery phase, where both sides collect and exchange evidence. This may include medical records, work history, witness statements, and corporate documents. The goal is to build a strong case that proves your illness was caused by asbestos exposure.

Litigation can take various months or even years, depending on the complexity of the case. During this time, your attorney may negotiate settlement offers while continuing to prepare for trial. Many mesothelioma cases settle before reaching court.

Before accepting a settlement, your lawyer will review the offer and explain your legal and financial options. They will ensure the amount reflects your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any future care needs.

By working with an experienced asbestos attorney, you can pursue the compensation you deserve while focusing on your health and family.

Is Accepting an Asbestos Settlement the Right Choice?

Deciding whether to accept an asbestos settlement is a deeply personal choice. It is a decision that should be made with the support of your family and the guidance of an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Your lawyer will help evaluate the fairness of the offer and explain how it aligns with your long-term needs.

Every case is different. Some people prefer the certainty and speed of a settlement, while others may choose to go to trial in hopes of a larger verdict. A skilled asbestos attorney will review the strengths of your case, the evidence, and any previous settlement amounts to help you make the best decision.

Pleural mesothelioma survivor Kim Madril shared how difficult it was to make this decision. She credits her lawyer’s honesty and constant support for helping her feel confident. “Throughout the whole process, it was always like, ‘Kim, is this okay with you?’ Which I appreciated,” Kim explained. “He’d say, ‘This is what I’m recommending, but ultimately it is up to you.’”

For Kim, accepting a mesothelioma settlement brought peace of mind and financial security for her husband and children. “The benefits were beyond anything I’d ever hoped before,” she said. “I stood for something I thought was right, and I ended up with some money. I ended up with a bit of security.”

Ultimately, a settlement may offer the stability and support your family needs. With the right legal guidance, you can make a choice that is right for your situation and your future.

Notable Mesothelioma Lawsuit Settlements And Verdicts

While most mesothelioma settlement amounts remain confidential due to legal agreements, a few high-profile cases have become public. These examples show how significantly compensation can vary depending on the details of the case, exposure history, and liable companies.

$250 Million Verdict – Metal Worker:

• In one of the largest asbestos verdicts in history, U.S. Steel was ordered to pay $250 million in 2003 to the wife of a steelworker who died from mesothelioma.
• Though the final settlement amount was kept private, it was reportedly much lower than the original verdict.

$117 Million Verdict – Talcum Powder Consumer:

• Stephen Lanzo III and his wife were awarded $117 million in 2018 after a jury found Johnson & Johnson and Imerys Talc America liable for his mesothelioma.
• Lanzo had used asbestos-contaminated talcum powder products from 1979 to 2003.

$70.8 Million Verdict – Navy Veteran:

• In 2014, a California jury awarded $70.8 million to Robert Whalen, a Navy machinist. Whalen developed mesothelioma after working with John Crane’s asbestos products during his 26 years of military service.

$13.4 Million Verdict + $75K Settlement – Drywall Worker:

• Drywaller Raymond Budd received $13.4 million in a 2020 Washington verdict, plus $75,000 in additional settlements.
• Budd was exposed to multiple asbestos-containing products, including Kaiser Gypsum’s joint compound.

$630,000 Settlement – Mechanic:

• In 2018, the family of a California mechanic received a $630,000 settlement following his death from asbestos-related lung cancer.
• He was exposed to asbestos in brakes, clutches, and gaskets throughout his career.

How are mesothelioma settlements paid out?

• Mesothelioma settlements are paid out once the asbestos company has made an offer and you have accepted it.

The average mesothelioma settlement ranges between $1 million and $2 million, while trial verdicts can exceed $20 million, depending on the case. While verdicts often result in higher compensation, they also involve more time and risk. For many victims and families, a settlement offers a faster, less stressful way to secure financial relief for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.  Visit the Official Website of Mesothelima For More.