Asbestos claims

Your exposure to asbestos may have occurred many years ago. However, it can be several years before symptoms become evident and you might have only recently developed symptoms or been diagnosed.

Asbestos related disease is still a major industrial health issue and coping with asbestos related diseases can be a difficult and worrying time for you and your family. We have specialist lawyers who will make sure your case for compensation is dealt with sensitively and effectively.

Asbestos: Just an industrial menace?

Asbestos related disease is most commonly associated with workers in the industrial and construction sectors. It's here that many people suffering from asbestos related diseases will have been exposed to the toxic substance in the normal course of their employment. Asbestos was used extensively in many industrial environments, including power stations, shipping or dockyards and railway works. It was also widely used as pipe and boiler insulation, fireproofing material, brake linings and in building materials. When asbestos is disturbed or damaged, dust and fibres are released. If inhaled, they can lead to asbestos related diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer and diffuse pleural thickening. However, you need not have worked in heavy industry, engineering or construction to contract an asbestos related disease. You may have been indirectly exposed to asbestos in some other way - washing overalls which had asbestos dust on them or coming into contact with asbestos in a school or hospital.

Important first steps

If you are concerned in any way, are suffering with breathing difficulties or think you have been exposed to asbestos, seek medical advice immediately. Ask your GP for a referral to a chest consultant for an X-Ray or CT scan to be undertaken. Contact your local Job Centre Plus and Department for Work and Pensions as there may be benefits available to you if you are suffering with an asbestos related illness. If you feel that you have a asbestos compensation claim, contact a specialist lawyer like Access Legal from Shoosmiths as soon as you can. There are time limits involved in bringing an asbestos claim but there are also fast track procedures that can be followed to ensure you get the compensation you need as soon as practicable. A specialist lawyer will be able to advise you about this and talk you through every step involved with making an asbestos claim

Experienced and dedicated asbestos solicitors

Our specialists have a proven track record of successfully dealing with the serious issues surrounding asbestos claims. Sara Hunt is our partner who leads the personal injury team in Birmingham and has specialised in asbestos related diseases claims for the last six years. Sara has advised on a number of high value settlements, including two she successfully concluded for more than £500,000 and a further case which was won at the Court of Appeal.

We understand the importance of ensuring your claim is dealt with quickly and sympathetically. We work tirelessly to obtain asbestos compensation that will cover both you and your family's future financial security and any care or treatment you may require as a result of your illness. We also support local asbestos groups by campaigning with them and by taking part in regular charitable events. Our team regularly focuses on asbestos issues and you can get the latest asbestos claim information from their asbestos blog while we have also produced a comprehensive guide to Asbestosis, click on the link to view.

Why use Access Legal from Shoosmiths?

We have approachable and experienced lawyers who are dedicated to helping those affected by asbestos related diseases. We provide free initial advice and can pursue asbestos claims on a no-win-no-fee basis. Please contact us to discuss your needs in complete confidence. Home visits can be arranged or you can call us on our helpline - 03700 868 686 - available seven days a week. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8 am to 8 pm, Saturday 9 am to 6 pm and Sunday 10 am to 4 pm.