NEW YORK CITY ASBESTOS ATTORNEY
Helping People in New York City, Queens, Manhattan, The Bronx, Staten Island and Long Island
Forbes asks, in a recent article, “Asbestos Still Causes Cancer. Why Is It Still Used?” Sadly, the answer is because it is inexpensive and legal in most parts of the World. Shocking right? I bet you thought it was banned, at least here in the United States or in regulation conscious New York. Well, it’s not. Let’s explore the history and uses or asbestos and it’s regulation.
WHAT IS ASBESTOS?
A group of naturally occurring silicate minerals that are long and fibrous. These minerals are plentiful and easy to mine, making them very attractive to manufacturers and builders who use them for soundproofing, insulation, fireproofing and related uses. Due to health hazards, it is now unlawful to use asbestos in most of the World. Even though the damaging health effects of asbestos were coming to light by the early 20th Century, asbestos remained in wide usage until Federal, State, City and Local laws began to be passed in the 1970’s. Exposure to asbestos can lead to very aggressive forms of cancer such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. Symptoms can take decades to arise decades later, but an experienced asbestos injury attorney can trace it back to its source and collect damages from the offenders. New York City asbestos injury attorney Wittenstein & Wittenstein we can help you fight this difficult battle. Call New York City asbestos attorney Wittenstein & Wittenstein at 718-261-8114 for a Free Consultation.
HISTORIC TIMELINE – ASBESTOS IN THE UNITED STATES
- 1920’S: Most companies were aware of serious health hazards associated with asbestos
- 1940’S-1960’S: Despite awareness of the hazards, use of asbestos GREW, especially in the automotive, shipping, oil, gas and construction industries.
- 1970’S-1980’S: Use of asbestos begins to be restricted
- 1989: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues a ban and phase out of asbestos
- 1991: The asbestos ban is OVERTURNED, with business interests claiming that it was too “cumbersome” to remove asbestos from ALL building and products that make use of it.
- Today: The use of asbestos with legal with some specific products being banned.
WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE?
The National Cancer Institute states that asbestos remains a leading cause of cancer, and has information about how to workers can reduce their exposure. Asbestos, when its fibers are inhaled over time, can accumulate in the lungs and contribute to mutations of cells that lead to two particular cancers, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Unfortunately, most asbestos exposure victims are not diagnosed until the advanced stages of the disease. A New York City asbestos attorney can help you investigate and determine if your illness was caused by exposure to asbestos.
HOW ARE PEOPLE EXPOSED TO ASBESTOS?
Occupational exposure is most common, but the contamination can also come from other sources. Many people have developed lung cancer or mesothelioma from exposure in their homes or from debris left behind from natural disasters such as floods and hurricanes. Asbestos fibers cling to clothing and can be transferred to family members.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT COMPENSATION FOR ASBESTOS EXPOSURE
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer or mesothelioma, and you suspect it might be related to asbestos exposure, please contact New York City asbestos attorney Wittenstein & Wittenstein for a free consultation. We have handling asbestos cases for over 60 years and can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the issues. Please call 718-261-8114 to make an appointment.
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