If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may have been exposed to asbestos. It’s likely the exposure happened decades ago and through the course of employment. If you believe your cancer diagnosis is related to a work environment, you may be able to take legal action to seek compensation. The claims process can be complicated, but a dedicated and knowledgeable Port Allen mesothelioma lawyer will guide you through the process.
Asbestos Exposure and Sugar Companies in Port Allen
Asbestos exposure is most likely to happen in shipping, agriculture, military shipyards, and power plants. Asbestos was heavily used in those industries in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. The material is useful for insulation and it’s fire-resistant. Those properties made it appealing to use.
In Port Allen, worksites where asbestos exposure could have happened include Mcbryde Sugar Company and Olokele Sugar Company—both of which are in the agriculture industry. Let’s take a look at those companies and why agriculture has the potential to be so dangerous when asbestos is involved.
Mcbryde Sugar Company
Thousands of individuals were employed at the Mcbryde Sugar Company. While many of the laborers were from Japan and the Philippines, a number of Hawaiians worked on the plantation as well. It’s possible asbestos exposure could have happened when operating, repairing, or maintaining agricultural machinery like brakes, brake pads, insultation, gaskets, seals, clutches, and engine parts. Asbestos-containing materials were used for the machinery because it could face high heat and friction without issue.
Olokele Sugar Company
The Olokele Sugar Company operated for 120 years, prior to shutting its doors in 2009. While the company went through ownership and name changes over the years, many employees worked there for decades. Long-term exposure to asbestos has the potential to result in mesothelioma because the fibers, when inhaled or ingested, can stick to organs and cause tumors to grow. In addition to asbestos exposure from farming equipment, it’s possible workers could have been exposed through contaminated soil.
Maximize Your Recovery With Frost Law Firm, PC
A mesothelioma diagnosis means medical bills, lost wages, and other significant expenses. Depending on your prognosis, you may need to undergo costly treatments or receive in-home care. Tackling a personal injury claim while trying to maintain your health is challenging. Fortunately, the Hawaii mesothelioma lawyers from Frost Law Firm, PC are prepared to represent you and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you have questions about your legal options or are ready to file a claim, schedule a free case evaluation with us today.
