Asbestos Lawyer

Unfortunate Development - "Cottage" Industry Develops due to Asbestos Issue

When a new epidemic hits the news wires, it causes concern in several locations and within several entities. Perhaps no epidemic has received more notice in the past 20 years than those conditions associated with asbestos exposure, as this substance has been linked to several debilitating and life-threatening conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. Unfortunately, this epidemic has not only led to thousands of deaths and an estimated $70 billion in total legal liability paid by those found responsible for different instances of asbestos exposure, but it's also led to the development of shady business practices.

Below is a look at how one of these unfortunate 'industries' has developed, but if you have been exposed to asbestos, contact a mesothelioma attorney at Williams Kherkher today to schedule a free initial consultation.

"Expert" Witnesses for Sale?

A recent feature that appeared in the New York Times shed light on a development that not only reeks of fraud and unethical medical conduct, but it could also serve as a barrier to those who have legitimately suffered as a result of being exposed to asbestos. This development has led to calls for a much higher degree of scrutiny for those who claim that plaintiffs in lawsuits suffer from asbestos-related diseases.

The feature described a typical scene of remote clinics being placed in parking lots of major shopping centers and department stores, and these 'clinics' offer passers-by the opportunity to be screened for such health conditions as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Both of these conditions are directly linked to asbestos exposure, but medical facts state that it's nearly impossible for a person to be diagnosed with both conditions simultaneously.

However, if a person is shown to have both conditions, the amount of damages he or she stands to gain rises significantly. The feature piece detailed the fact that thousands of people were diagnosed with both conditions at these remote clinics, and that doctors who make these diagnoses will serve as the expert witness during the legal process.

In short, this process will generate millions of dollars not only for the alleged victims, but most importantly for the doctors who agree to aid in the case as it moves forward. Many times, and most unfortunately, these plaintiffs are unaware of the fact that having both of these conditions at once is exceedingly rare, as we are all taught that what a doctor tells us is fact.

Your Next Step

If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, do not rely on the diagnosis of an unfamiliar doctor at a remote clinic. Seek the medical attention of your regular doctor, and if he or she notices a problem, you will be referred to a specialist. If you are diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, contact an asbestos lawyer at Williams Kherkher immediately to schedule a free initial consultation.