Laryngeal Cancer Personal Injury Lawsuit
Not all injuries and illnesses have the potential to turn into a lawsuit, but when you do get sick or injured as the result of an accident or toxic exposure that was not your fault and could have been prevented, you may have grounds to sue the at-fault party. One such case where litigation may be an option is if you’ve developed throat cancer or laryngeal cancer.
If you feel you have the basis for a throat cancer lawsuit or laryngeal cancer lawsuit and you’d like to meet with an attorney to discuss your options, contact David C. Thompson, P.C., serving those in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and throughout the state, including Minot, Bismarck, and Fargo. Dave C. Thompson has been practicing law for over 40 years and will bring his wealth of experience to help you get the compensation you deserve. Call now to schedule a consultation.
Laryngeal Cancer: Common Causes and Risk Factors
There are two main types of throat cancer: laryngeal and esophageal. The former affects your larynx (also called your “voice box”) which is the hollow tube that connects your mouth to your lungs and respiratory system. The latter affects your esophagus, which is the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. Here, we will focus on laryngeal cancer although lawsuits are possible for both.
There are many different causes and risk factors associated with laryngeal cancer, but not all of them can constitute a lawsuit. For example, if your cancer is brought about by smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, or a family history of the disease, you will likely not have the grounds to bring forward a case. That said, there are other causes that can be the basis for a civil claim:
Exposure to chemicals: There are many occupations where workers are exposed to various chemicals, and if they’re not provided with sufficient personal protective gear, this could result in illnesses like laryngeal cancer. This could include paint fumes, wood dust, petroleum, and chemicals commonly used in metalworking. One notorious example of this was at Camp Lejeune, a military base where industrial solvents and per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS) were found in the water supply for over 30 years.
Exposure to asbestos: As we’ve known for some years now, asbestos and throat cancer are clearly linked (as well as other respiratory diseases like mesothelioma), but many workers in the past were exposed to this material on an everyday basis at their jobs well into the 1980s. Industries such as mining, construction, smelting, and textile manufacturing have all been linked to dangerous levels of asbestos exposure. Those who have served in the military may also have been at risk for asbestos exposure.
Second-hand exposure: Lastly, it’s not only the workers directly exposed to these chemicals who can get laryngeal cancer, but their family members, too. If you aren’t properly protected from harmful chemical and material exposure, these substances can stay on your hair, skin, and clothing and can be passed on to family members you live with.
Grounds for a Laryngeal Cancer Personal Injury Lawsuit
When can you sue? These cases can be extremely difficult to mount, which is why most victims choose to work with a toxic exposure attorney. A solid case relies on sufficient evidence that clearly links the cancer to the toxic substance, but even this isn’t enough on its own. You will also need to prove three things:
That the guilty party had a duty of care to the victim (for example, an employer who is expected to provide a safe workplace).
They then neglected that duty of care which resulted in a potentially harmful environment.
And, this neglect caused damages (i.e., you developed cancer due to your exposure).
Identifying Responsible Parties
Toxic exposure cases like this can be extremely difficult to pin down and identify the responsible parties. In many cases, you’ll be going up against a large corporation with a team of lawyers working for them and a lot of money to defend themselves. Working with an experienced and reputable asbestos attorney can greatly increase your chances of getting compensation.
Compensation and Damages Available
The type and amount of compensation you may receive will depend on the nature of the exposure and the extent of your cancer. Some damages you may see include:
Reimbursement for current and future medical expenses
Lost wages
Other household expenses related to your illness
Pain and suffering
Loss of consortium
Emotional distress
Toxic Exposure Attorney in Grand Forks, North Dakota
If you’re in the Grand Forks, North Dakota, area and have suffered from laryngeal cancer due to toxic or chemical exposure, reach out to David C. Thompson, P.C. to speak with a skilled and dedicated attorney. He can provide you with the trusted legal guidance and support you need so you can focus on your health and peace of mind.