Posted November 12, 2009
The Clarion Post
A Warren County jury has awarded $7.6 million to a former sandblaster who developed severe silicosis.
The verdict is the first silicosis case to go to a jury in Mississippi.
Robert Eastman sandblasted for about 25 years at Marathon Letourneau in Vicksburg and used Mississippi Valley Silica Co. Inc.’s sand from 1963 until 1978, according to his lawsuit.
“Mr. Eastman suffers from progressive pulmonary massive fibrosis as a result of severe silicosis,” said Tim Porter, one of Eastman’s attorneys. “There was substantial proof put before the jury that Mississippi Valley Silica Co. Inc. knew that using sand while while abrasive blasting caused the incurable, deadly progressive disease silicosis.”
Mississippi Valley Silica is expected to appeal.
Silicosis is an incurable, sometimes fatal lung disease caused by inhalation of silica, the primary ingredient in sand and most rocks.
Do you work in the farming industry or in mining, construction or wrecking and demolition? Do you have a chronic dry cough, shortness of breath, fever, weight loss, chest pain or nails with a bluish tint? If so, you could have Silicosis.
Silicosis is a serious disease involving the lungs. The main risk factor is exposure to crystalline dust. This can be inhaled either by working at one of the jobs I mentioned or as a bystander working next to someone.
If you fall into one of these categories, you need the advice of someone who can assist you in receiving the best medical care to diagnose and treat this ailment as well as compensation for time lost from work. You need an attorney who specializes in toxic chemicals and workplace injuries. If you think that your company’s insurance carrier will surely do the right thing and take care of you, you are probably way off base. You need to talk to someone who has your best interests at heart and will fight for you. Visit our website at www.dreamlegalteam.com. You can fill out an online consultation form or engage in a webchat. Don’t wait. Get the help you need now. Visit my website at www.dreamlegalteam.com. You’ll be glad you did.
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