Asbestos Related Pleural Thickening: A Widow’s Fight for Justice
Following years of exposure to asbestos when working as a labourer at Devonport Dockyard in Plymouth, our client, Mr W, was diagnosed with Asbestos Related Pleural Thickening after suffering from various related symptoms.
Unfortunately, due to the impact of his exposure, Mr W passed away during his asbestos compensation claim, but his wife, Mrs W, continued his claim as the widow and administrator of the estate.
What is Asbestos Related Pleural Thickening?
Asbestos related pleural thickening is where scar tissue has built up around the lining of the lungs. It is not cancer, but it can be an early sign of mesothelioma. It is unfortunately incurable, but treatment can lessen the symptoms suffered.
There are two main types of pleural thickening – diffuse pleural thickening and focal pleural thickening. These terms describe how much of the lining is affected.
You can read more about the types of pleural thickening and the various treatments here.
Where and how was Mr W exposed to asbestos?
Between 1962 and 2006, Mr W was exposed to asbestos during his work as a labourer and a fitter’s mate at HM Devonport Dockyard in Plymouth. It was this exposure which led to his diagnosis of Asbestos-Related Pleural Thickening.
Mr W’s role included working afloat on ships, including HMS Ark Royal, HMS Eagle, HMS Hermes, HMS Salisbury and HMS Leander, which were being refitted, cleaning and sweeping ship decks. Mr W was working alongside tradesmen, laggers and shipwrights who were all using asbestos materials. After some research, GA Solicitors was able to determine that the worst exposure was from the old asbestos pipe lagging.
Mr W was not given any form of protective equipment whilst working in the extremely dirty and dusty conditions. There were no adequate washing facilities or ventilation provided by the Dockyard for its employees. Mr W described the conditions as working in a snowstorm of dust.
How did GA Solicitors help?
Due to the unfortunate passing of Mr W, the case was stayed until the coroner detailed that the cause of death was Asbestos Related Pleural Thickening. Mr W died intestate, and Mrs W applied for Letters of Administration with the assistance of Catherine Bailey in the wills, trusts and probate department at GA Solicitors in Plymouth.
Our APIL-accredited asbestos specialist and partner, James Walsh, led the asbestos compensation claim and successfully negotiated a comprehensive settlement of £175,000. This settlement included compensation for dependency, care and assistance, bereavement damages, and funeral expenses, ensuring Mrs W received the financial support her husband had hoped for when he first instructed the firm.
This case highlights GA Solicitors’ commitment to securing justice for families affected by industrial disease even after a loved one has passed, and our ability to deliver results with compassion and expertise.
If you or a loved one has suffered Asbestos Related Pleural Thickening, mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease, then call GA Solicitors’ experienced team today on 01752 203500. You can also email enquiries@GAsolicitors.com.
The team is ranked in The Legal 500 and Chambers UK, as well as being accredited by APIL, the leading organisation in the field of personal injury law. You can be assured you are in the best possible hands.
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