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Asbestos exposure remains a serious cause of illnesses and even deaths across industries, from construction to manufacturing. Many of these workers are members of labor unions, which historically represented entire sectors where asbestos use was widespread.

If you’re a union worker who’s been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness like mesothelioma and asbestosis, you may be entitled to financial compensation. But understanding your rights and how to claim compensation requires knowing what steps to take.

Here’s how asbestos claims work.

Why Union Workers Are at Risk

For much of the 20th century, asbestos was considered a “miracle material.” It was cheap, fire-resistant, and used in everything from insulation to boilers and cement.

Unfortunately, unionized laborers in industries such as construction, carpentry, power plants, steel and chemical plants, and automotive maintenance were frequently exposed to asbestos fibers on the job – that too, without proper protective gear or warnings from employers.

Even short-term exposure could cause long-term harm, as asbestos-related diseases can take years to develop.

How Asbestos Claims Work

An asbestos claim is a legal process that allows victims or their families to seek compensation from the at-fault party. Similarly, union worker asbestos claims let union members hold their employers accountable legally.

These claims are not made against the union, but they use the workers’ union records and work history to establish proof of exposure. An attorney can help identify responsible parties and determine the best course of action.

Depending on your situation, you may be eligible to file personal injury claims, wrongful death claims, and asbestos trust fund claims.

How to Start the Process

The first step in pursuing compensation is contacting an experienced asbestos lawyer or firm, such as ELSM Law, that specializes in union worker cases. Once an attorney is assigned to you, they will review your work history to track where and when you might have been exposed.

You’ll also need medical documentation that confirms an asbestos-related diagnosis. This includes imaging scans, pathology reports, and doctor statements linking your illness to exposure. The lawyer, then, investigates which companies supplied or used asbestos products at your job sites.

Once your case is built, your attorney files the appropriate claims or lawsuits. In many cases, workers never have to go to court as compensation often comes from settlements or trust fund distributions.

Kinds of Compensation

Even if the responsible company for your asbestos exposure is not in operation anymore, many of them have turned to asbestos trust fund establishments. So, you will still get your fair compensation as long as you follow the right steps.

The amount of compensation varies based on the extent of your illness, your exposure history, and the number of liable parties involved. Union workers can recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses.

Why You Need Legal Help

Even though unions have fought hard to protect workers’ rights, asbestos litigation is complex. There are multiple potential defendants, varying state laws, and deadlines that can expire quickly. A lawyer ensures you stay on top of everything and receive fair payment.

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