18 April 2012
The family of a maintenance worker who died from
mesothelioma (a terminal cancer of the lining of the lungs) recently succeeded in their claim against his former employer following his extensive
asbestos exposure in the workplace.
His asbestos exposure occurred in the mid-70’s when extensive information was widely available on the dangers of asbestos. In fact, about a decade earlier, published scientific evidence confirmed there was a link between just a small amount of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.
Workplace exposure to asbestos
Nevertheless, he was subjected to truly awful working conditions when working at the Chase Manhattan Bank (now a part of the J P Morgan Group) in Moorgate. He was required to saw asbestos boards which released extensive quantities of dust which he inhaled. No protection was offered, and one of his work colleagues even resorted to using a handkerchief around his face which offered no protection against the harmful asbestos fibres.
Following the shock of his terminal diagnosis, he instructed specialist
mesothelioma claims lawyers Leigh Day & Co to bring an urgent claim against J P Morgan. JPMorgan Chase & Co has assets of $2.3 trillion. Unfortunately, our client’s condition rapidly deteriorated despite him being generally fit and healthy and having regularly looked after his sister and brother who were both seriously ill.
Shortly after instructing Leigh Day, he sadly passed away and his family continued the claim. In his last days, he was treated at St Joseph’s Hospice.
Faced with the evidence against them, J P Morgan admitted liability and Leigh Day was able to negotiate a significant settlement on behalf of all the beneficiaries. Our client’s family were incredibly appreciative of the care provided by St Joseph’s Hospice and we were able to negotiate a settlement which included payment of the Hospice’s fees.
Following negotiation, the claim settled for £75,000.
Industrial disease claims lawyer
Vijay Ganapathy who who represented this client said:
“It is surprising that even in the mid-70’s and up to the early 80’s many employers continued to disregard crucial advice and published information about the serious dangers of asbestos. The vast numbers of deaths and injury which have resulted could have been avoided or at least the risk minimised by taking a few steps. As a consequence, many individuals have endured truly arduous suffering from a disease that causes incredibly painful symptoms. Not only does this affect the sufferer, but also the family.”
Leigh Day: asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers
Leigh Day has a team of specialist
mesothelioma claims lawyers who have successfully obtained millions of pounds in compensation for people who have contracted mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos in the workplace. We only represent claimants and do not act for insurance companies.
Daniel Easton, partner and head of the
industrial diseases team, has been recognised as a leader in the areas of asbestos compensation claims by both major legal directories. Chambers guide to the legal profession recently described him as being considered ‘outstandingly knowledgeable’ by the Bar, and ‘compassionate’ and ‘responsive’ by clients.
If you would like to talk to one of our lawyers about a possible claim for compensation relating to asbestos, asbestosis, pleural plaques or mesothelioma please contact us on
020 7650 1200 for a free initial consultation.
Information was correct at time of publishing. See terms and conditions for further details.