A mesothelioma diagnosis can be devastating. This is true not just medically, but emotionally and financially. There are several steps you should take after a mesothelioma diagnosis. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Arkansas, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
At Edward O. Moody, P.A., our Arkansas personal injury attorneys are highly experienced in asbestos-related claims and are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
Step 1: Prioritize Medical Care and Specialist Support
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Your first priority should be securing care from a qualified oncologist or mesothelioma specialist. Arkansas residents often seek treatment at facilities like the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) or travel to national cancer centers for advanced therapies.
Early intervention can improve quality of life and extend survival. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery to remove tumors
- Chemotherapy or radiation
- Immunotherapy or clinical trials
Keep detailed records of all medical visits, diagnoses, treatments, and expenses. This evidence will be critical to a potential legal claim.
Step 2: Identify How You Were Exposed to Asbestos
Mesothelioma typically develops decades after exposure to asbestos. Common sources in Arkansas include:
- Industrial worksites (paper mills, chemical plants, steel factories)
- Construction and demolition jobs
- Shipyards and railroad facilities
- Military service, especially Navy veterans
Our legal team will help you trace the origin of your exposure, whether it occurred on the job, in the military, or through secondary contact.
Step 3: Contact an Arkansas Mesothelioma Attorney
Time is critical. Arkansas law imposes strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, on filing personal injury or wrongful death claims. In most cases, you have three years from the date of diagnosis to file a lawsuit. Deadlines may be longer or shorter depending on your unique situation, so it is vital you speak with an attorney right away.
Our experienced mesothelioma attorneys offer:
- Free consultations to evaluate your case
- Thorough investigation of asbestos exposure history
- Filing claims against manufacturers, employers, or trust funds
- Negotiating settlements or pursuing trial verdicts
Step 4: Explore Your Potential Compensation
Mesothelioma victims may be eligible for substantial financial recovery, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Travel costs for treatment
- Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members)
In many cases, compensation comes from asbestos trust funds established by bankrupt companies. Our attorneys know how to navigate these complex systems and maximize your recovery.
Step 5: Preserve Evidence and Documentation Relevant to Your Claim
Strong legal claims require strong evidence. Begin collecting:
- Employment records and union affiliations
- Military service documents (DD-214), if applicable
- Medical records and pathology reports
- Witness statements from coworkers or family
- Product packaging or materials linked to asbestos
We can help you organize and preserve this evidence to build a strong case.
Step 6: Protect Your Family’s Future
Mesothelioma does not just affect the patient, it impacts your entire family. Legal compensation can help cover caregiving costs, secure financial stability, and ensure justice is served.
If your loved one has passed away from mesothelioma, you may still have legal rights. Arkansas allows surviving spouses, children, and other dependents to file wrongful death claims.
Get Help After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis in Arkansas
You do not have to do this alone. We understand the impact your diagnosis has on your life, your finances, and your overall well-being. Pursue the compensation you deserve after your mesothelioma diagnosis.
Let the skilled personal injury attorneys at Edward O. Moody, P.A. review your case. Contact us today for a consultation.