San Mateo Asbestos Lawyer

Asbestos is composed of six naturally occurring minerals that form flexible, soft fibers. For years, asbestos was used in the commercial and industrial sectors,, and people were unknowingly exposed to its many dangers. Today, asbestos use is less common. Even when it is, manufacturers are required to give consumers plenty of warning about its dangers. For example, asbestos is known to cause many different illnesses, including the very rare but aggressive mesothelioma. The many illnesses caused by asbestos exposure are largely preventable. People can become sick due to negligent manufacturers, property owners, and others that handle and distribute asbestos. If you or someone you love has been exposed to the toxic material and has suffered harm because of it, you may have a legal right to claim financial compensation known as damages. Our San Mateo asbestos lawyer can help you obtain the maximum damages you are entitled to.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance, but this does not mean it does not pose any danger to people. Sadly, thousands of people lose their lives each year due to exposure to asbestos. Even so, asbestos is used in many different applications today because it is heat resistant, electricity resistant, and the fibers are easy to weave like fabric.

While asbestos has many uses, it is harmful for anyone who inhales or ingests it. Once this happens, the fibers become permanently trapped inside the body. The fibers can lodge themselves in the membrane of the lungs and other organs, eventually causing scarring and inflammation. Many studies have concluded that approximately two to ten of all individuals exposed to asbestos will contract mesothelioma.

People can also suffer from asbestos exposure when someone they live with is exposed to asbestos. For example, when someone works with asbestos, the fibers can become trapped in their clothing. When another person in their residence does the laundry, they can also become exposed and suffer harm.

Determining who is liable for asbestos exposure is not always easy, but an Asbestos attorney in San Mateo can help. You must first determine the act of negligence that resulted in the exposure. The most common liable parties for asbestos exposure are as follows:

• Property owners: Property owners, such as landlords, must ensure their premises are safe for anyone who enters. When they fail in this regard, they can be held liable.
• Manufacturers: Asbestos use is banned in California, but it was not until 1977 that the ban took effect. Older homes and products may still contain asbestos, putting anyone who resides in it or visits at risk.
• Mining companies: All 42 asbestos sites in California have been closed for some time. However, the serious illnesses caused by exposure, such as mesothelioma, take a long time to develop and so, case numbers continue to increase.

Our San Mateo asbestos attorney at Brod Law Firm has seen the devastating effects of exposure and can determine who is liable so you obtain the full and fair damages you deserve. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to get more information.