Asbestos lawyers and compensation claims
Asbestos lawyers and compensation claims
If you have been exposed to asbestos and have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease such as asbestosis or mesothelioma, you may be eligible to claim compensation.
Jump to...
Shine Lawyers has asbestos lawyers who can sit down with you and determine whether you have a case for an asbestos compensation claim.
Due to restrictions in Queensland (QLD) and Western Australia (WA) we are prohibited from showing people in those states certain information regarding our legal services. If you are located in QLD or WA please click here for information on asbestos compensation.
Asbestos exposure and asbestos diseases
There is a common misconception that some forms of asbestos, such as white asbestos, are harmless. This is not true for all types of asbestos. All asbestos is dangerous and inhalation of asbestos dust and fibre may result in severe asbestos-related diseases.
Asbestos-related diseases refer to any illness caused by exposure to asbestos. When inhaled, asbestos fibres accumulate within the lungs and cause scarring and inflammation. Repeated exposure to asbestos increases one's risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. There are many types of asbestos-related diseases, the most common of which are outlined below.
Pleural plaques
Pleural plaques are areas of fibrous thickening on the lining of the lungs and typically arise 20 to 30 years after asbestos exposure. The plaques can calcify over time but generally do not cause long-term health problems
Asbestosis
Asbestosis specifically refers to fibrosis (scarring) within the lung tissue caused by asbestos. Shortness of breath is the main symptom of asbestosis.
Asbestosis is associated with occupational exposure of high intensity and over prolonged periods of time. It is a progressive disease that worsens with time – although it is non-cancerous.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that mostly develops in the lining of the lungs. Mesothelioma is associated with modest levels of asbestos exposure and has no known cure.
Lung cancer
Asbestos induced lung cancer is generally associated with occupational exposure of high intensity and for prolonged periods of time. In many cases it carries a very poor prognosis.
Smokers who have been exposed to asbestos are at far greater risk of developing lung cancer than those who do not smoke.
Asbestos Compensation Claims
Shine Lawyers has dedicated lawyers practising exclusively in asbestos and dust disease compensation who can provide obligation free advice about any potential claim.
Shine Lawyers pursues claims Australia wide and has a proven track record as far as the High Court of Australia. Claims are run on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning you only pay our legal fees if you are successful.
There are numerous compensation schemes available and the circumstances of your asbestos exposure will determine where and what type of claim to lodge. It is important that you contact Shine Lawyers for advice regarding a potential claim as strict time limits can apply.
Australian Asbestos Register
Shine Lawyers' Asbestos Law Division has developed a national Asbestos Register to document and track asbestos exposure around Australia. If you have been exposed, regardless of how recently, record your details here. Registration is free and will assist in any future compensation claims that may arise.
If you or a loved one has an asbestos disease, contact the team today to find out if you have a claim.
