An attorney can help you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
U.S. military veterans receiving compensation for Agent Orange exposure during their service may also be eligible for compensation due to asbestos-related lung cancer. The critical factor lies in understanding the eligibility criteria for both types of compensation and gathering the necessary documentation to substantiate claims.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has stated that veterans may pursue toxic exposure-related compensation as long as they are not "double dipping" on benefits - that is, receiving money from the government twice for the same disability.
For example, under ordinary circumstances, a veteran suffering from Agent Orange-related bladder cancer and asbestos lung cancer is eligible for VA benefits for both diseases. They may also be able to receive compensation from disease-related civil claims and lawsuits.
The process is complex, and veterans suffering from multiple toxic exposure disabilities are encouraged to consult attorneys with extensive experience helping military veterans obtain the compensation they deserve.
Asbestos compensation for veterans
While Navy veterans were at the highest risk, every branch of the armed services - including the Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard - used asbestos in vehicles and equipment. Like most old buildings, many military installations and facilities contained asbestos insulation and equipment. Asbestos was mixed into cement, caulking, flooring, and roofing materials. It was also used in gaskets, clutch plates, and brake pads.
For veterans meeting the criteria for both Agent Orange and asbestos compensation, the process of claiming both benefits can be undertaken without any conflict. This does not, however, mean the process will be simple. The goal is to access the intended support for health conditions and alleviate the challenges these conditions pose, without restrictions on claiming both simultaneously. Options for pursuing asbestos lung cancer compensation include:
- VA Disability Claims. Veterans who are not receiving 100% of their disability benefits for Agent Orange-related diseases may qualify to increase their disability rating to account for asbestos-related lung cancer. This process involves filing a VA claim and submitting medical records, service records, and evidence of asbestos exposure during military service.
- Bankruptcy Trust Funds. Many asbestos manufacturers and companies that used asbestos in their products have filed for bankruptcy due to the numerous lawsuits against them. As a result, they have established Asbestos Trust Funds, or ATFs, to compensate victims. There are dozens of ATFs in the U.S. with a combined total value of billions of dollars. Veterans who were exposed to asbestos-containing products may be eligible to file claims against these trust funds. Each claim has its own criteria and standards of evidence. An asbestos lung cancer attorney can help veterans ID the ATFs for which they qualify, collect evidence, and file effective claims.
- Filing Civil Lawsuits. In some cases, veterans may pursue compensation through civil lawsuits against companies or manufacturers responsible for their asbestos exposure. If veterans were exposed to asbestos products during their service and those products were provided by private companies, they may have legal recourse. An attorney can provide guidance on whether a lawsuit is a viable option.
- State Workers' Compensation. In certain cases, veterans who were exposed to asbestos while performing military duties may be eligible for state workers' compensation benefits. These benefits vary by state and may provide additional financial support.
Help for veterans with asbestos lung cancer
Claiming both Agent Orange and asbestos compensation extends beyond financial considerations; it's about accessing earned support. These benefits can help ease the financial strain of medical expenses, treatments, and daily living costs linked to health conditions.
If you are already receiving Agent Orange benefits from the VA but you're also suffering from asbestos lung cancer or mesothelioma, see what the Ferrell Law Group can do for you. Our law firm has more than 30 years of experience fighting for asbestos victims. We serve clients nationwide and offer free case consultations.
When you contact us, a member of our team can listen to the details of your case, answer your questions, and explain your potential options. There is no charge, just information you can trust. We are available to hear from you any time, day or night. Contact us today.