Asbestos Law Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Asbestos Law, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Asbestos Law?

“Litigation of class actions involving people who have been exposed to asbestos and are at higher risk for lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

History and Meaning of Asbestos Law

Asbestos law refers to the legal proceedings regarding individuals who have been exposed to asbestos and have subsequently developed asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. The use of asbestos in construction and manufacturing has been a long-standing practice dating back to ancient times. However, it was during the industrial period of the 20th century that the widespread use of asbestos became more prevalent. Unfortunately, the risks of exposure to asbestos fibers were not fully understood at that time, which led to numerous cases of workers developing occupational asbestos-related diseases, as well as the development of asbestos law.

Asbestos law is a highly specialized field of product liability law that involves the litigation of class actions on behalf of people who have been injured by asbestos exposure. The goal of asbestos law is to provide compensation for these individuals and their families for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Asbestos law has evolved over time, with many jurisdictions now enacting specific laws and regulations designed to address the unique legal and medical issues that arise in asbestos cases.

Examples of Asbestos Law

  1. A class-action lawsuit was filed against a construction company after several of their workers became ill due to asbestos exposure.

  2. A widow sued a manufacturing company after her husband's death from mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos during his employment.

  3. An asbestos victim was awarded a settlement for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering in a personal injury lawsuit against a negligent asbestos manufacturer.

Legal Terms Similar to Asbestos Law

  1. Product Liability Law: a legal area that allows individuals who have been harmed by a defective product to seek compensation from the manufacturer or retailer responsible for the product.

  2. Mesothelioma Law: a specialized area of personal injury law that deals with cases of mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure.

  3. Toxic Tort Law: a legal area that deals with harm caused by exposure to a toxic substance, such as asbestos.