Industrial & Military Exposure | Louisiana Venue | Confidential Resolution
Case Overview
This case involved a Louisiana man who worked his entire life working either in the military first and later in construction and heavy industry—before being diagnosed with pleural malignant mesothelioma over 4 decades later. His diagnosis came late in life, progressed quickly, and unfortunately died a few months later. He was survived by his wife of many years and their children. The case reflects the long-term consequences of repeated, unprotected asbestos exposure across multiple worksites and industries.
Occupational & Exposure History
Early Work & Military Service (1960s–Early 1970s)
The claimant began working while still in high school, performing general labor and cleanup tasks in a local automotive setting. In the mid-1960s, he entered active military service, later continuing in the reserves. During this time, he worked as a carpenter at multiple installations, including older facilities where asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in construction and maintenance.
His duties placed him in direct contact with building materials and work environments that were later known to pose serious asbestos exposure risks—without warnings or protective equipment.
Industrial & Construction Employment (1970s–2000s)
After completing his military service, he held various labor and construction roles, including manufacturing work, residential construction, and utility installation. In the mid-1970s, he began long-term employment at a petroleum refinery, where he worked for more than thirty years in multiple positions.
According to family accounts, asbestos was present throughout the facility for much of his employment. Cleanup and abatement efforts occurred only after years of routine exposure. At no point was he informed of the risks or provided with effective respiratory protection.
Secondary & Non-Occupational Exposure
Outside of work, he routinely performed his own vehicle maintenance, including brake repairs, and handled basic home improvement projects. These activities likely contributed to additional asbestos exposure over time.
Medical Diagnosis
In 2016, the claimant was diagnosed with pleural malignant mesothelioma. The diagnosis was confirmed through medical and pathological evaluation. Given the disease’s long latency period, his condition was medically consistent with asbestos exposure occurring decades earlier during his military and industrial employment. He passed away shortly after diagnosis, with mesothelioma identified as the cause of death.
Legal & Investigative Strategy
Following intake, a detailed investigation was conducted to reconstruct the claimant’s exposure history across multiple decades. This included:
- Developing a comprehensive occupational timeline
- Identifying asbestos-containing materials historically used at relevant worksites
- Correlating job duties with known exposure pathways
- Reviewing medical records and diagnostic findings
- Pursuing appropriate recovery options through established compensation channels
This methodical approach ensured that responsibility was evaluated based on documented historical use and exposure patterns.
Case Outcome & Financial Resolution
The case concluded with a confidential financial recovery of several million dollars, obtained through negotiated resolutions with responsible parties. The recovery helped provide financial stability for the surviving spouse and family, addressing medical costs and end-of-life expenses. The resolution was reached without any admission of liability.
Key Takeaway
This case illustrates how asbestos exposure often unfolds quietly over a lifetime, only to surface decades later with devastating results. While no recovery can replace a loved one, holding responsible parties accountable can offer families security, recognition, and a measure of justice.
Next Step
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you don’t have to navigate this alone. The attorneys at Danziger & De Llano Mesothelioma Law Firm have decades of experience representing families affected by asbestos exposure nationwide.
Time matters in these cases. Reach out today to discuss your situation, understand your legal options, and learn how accountability and financial recovery may be possible.
Call or contact Danziger & De Llano for a confidential consultation.