Could Asbestos Exposure at Work Lead to a Lawsuit?

For decades, asbestos was widely used in construction, manufacturing, and industrial workplaces. Even though its dangers are now well-known, countless workers were exposed to asbestos without adequate warning or protection. If you were exposed to asbestos at your job, or a loved one developed an asbestos-related illness, you may be entitled to file an asbestos lawsuit to pursue financial compensation.

At Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C., we help individuals and families in Nebraska understand their rights after work-related asbestos exposure. This guide explains when asbestos exposure at work may justify legal action and how a lawyer can help you file an asbestos claim or pursue an asbestos trust fund claim.

Understanding Asbestos Exposure and Its Health Risks

Asbestos exposure occurs when microscopic asbestos fibers are released into the air and inhaled. This typically happens when asbestos-containing products are disturbed during construction, demolition, or repair work. Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive repair, and manufacturing have historically faced the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.

Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to serious illnesses, including:

• Lung cancer
• Pleural mesothelioma and other forms of malignant mesothelioma
• Chronic lung disease caused by asbestos dust
• Asbestosis and other asbestos-related diseases

Because these illnesses often take years or even decades to develop, many asbestos victims do not experience symptoms until long after their initial exposure.

Work-Related Asbestos Exposure and Liability

Work-related asbestos exposure is one of the leading causes of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related conditions. Employers and asbestos manufacturers had a duty to protect workers from known health risks. In many cases, they failed to provide proper safety measures, training, or personal protective equipment.

As a result, individuals who developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness due to occupational exposure may have grounds to file a lawsuit against responsible employers, property owners, or manufacturers of asbestos-containing materials.

Liability may extend to multiple parties, including:

• Employers who failed to follow occupational safety standards
• Asbestos companies that continued to sell asbestos-containing products
• Manufacturers who did not warn about the risk of asbestos exposure
• Property owners who neglected to disclose asbestos hazards

Can Family Members Sue for Secondary Asbestos Exposure?

Yes. In many households, workers unknowingly brought home asbestos dust on their clothing, tools, or equipment, which led to secondary asbestos exposure. Spouses, children, and other family members who inhaled asbestos fibers from contaminated laundry or household surfaces have developed mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.

Victims of secondhand asbestos exposure may also qualify for legal action, particularly if they can prove their illness was caused by close contact with someone who worked with asbestos-containing materials.

When to File an Asbestos Lawsuit

You may want to file an asbestos lawsuit if:

• You or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or another asbestos-related illness
• You worked in a job where you were exposed to asbestos-containing products
• You have evidence of secondhand or household exposure to asbestos dust
• You believe a company or employer failed to warn or protect you from asbestos risks

An experienced asbestos lawyer can review your medical history, employment background, and other evidence to determine whether you have a viable asbestos claim. You may be eligible to seek financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.

Types of Asbestos Exposure Lawsuits

There are several legal avenues for asbestos victims:

• Personal injury lawsuits for those diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease
• Wrongful death lawsuits for surviving family members of someone who died from an asbestos illness
• Claims against bankrupt asbestos companies through asbestos trust funds
• Mesothelioma lawsuits and mesothelioma compensation claims filed with the help of a mesothelioma lawyer or asbestos attorney

Each case is different, and eligibility for specific types of claims depends on individual circumstances and the timing of your diagnosis.

Why Legal Help Matters in Asbestos Cases

Because asbestos exposure lawsuits involve complex medical records, multiple parties, and decades-old evidence, it’s crucial to work with a legal team that understands asbestos litigation. Our firm has experience handling asbestos-related cases and understands how to pursue compensation through both litigation and asbestos trust fund claims.

An attorney can help:

• Identify all liable parties, including asbestos manufacturers
• File timely asbestos claims
• Access medical experts and testimony
• Document your occupational exposure or secondary asbestos exposure
• Seek financial compensation for your ongoing medical treatment, future asbestos claims, and long-term care

What You May Be Entitled to Recover

If you file an asbestos lawsuit, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses and ongoing treatment costs
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering related to your illness
• Wrongful death damages for family members who have lost a loved one
• Expenses for in-home care, hospice, or disability support

We are committed to helping asbestos victims and their families secure compensation for the devastating impact of asbestos-related injuries.

Start with a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos—on the job or through secondhand exposure—Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C. is here to help. We offer clear answers, trusted advocacy, and legal strategies tailored to your situation.

Learn more about your legal options after asbestos exposure. Call Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C. at (402) 462-5187 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.

FAQs: Asbestos Exposure Lawsuits

Can I sue my employer for asbestos exposure?

Yes, in certain situations. While workers’ compensation may apply, you may also have a separate claim against manufacturers or third parties responsible for asbestos-containing materials.

What is secondary asbestos exposure?

This occurs when someone is exposed to asbestos dust or fibers brought home on clothing or tools. Family members can become ill even if they never worked directly with asbestos.

How long do I have to file a claim after being diagnosed?

Nebraska law imposes time limits, so it’s important to consult an asbestos lawyer as soon as possible after diagnosis.

What types of compensation are available?

You may recover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages related to asbestos-related diseases.

Can I file a claim if the responsible company is bankrupt?

Yes. Many asbestos claims are paid through asbestos trust funds established by bankrupt asbestos companies.