Multiple companies are facing a new asbestos lung cancer lawsuit from a widow alleging her husband’s death was caused by occupational asbestos exposure.

Plaintiff Shirley A. alleges her her late husband Charles A. formerly served in the United States Navy as an aviation machinist, during which time he experienced regular occupational asbestos exposure. Shirley is filing this asbestos lung cancer lawsuit on behalf of Charles, who allegedly developed the disease as a direct consequence of occupational asbestos exposure.

Shirley alleges multiple negligence and failure to warn claims against a number of manufacturing companies that allegedly manufactured and distributed the asbestos products used in the Navy vessels on which Charles served.

According to the asbestos lung cancer lawsuit, Charles had worked at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard between Oct. 30, 1957 to Nov. 22, 1961. During this time, Charles had installed and repaid telephone lines and equipment on Navy vessels. Charles was also stationed at Naval Air Station Bermuda from July 7, 1958 to July 1, 1960, and the Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst from Aug. 1, 1960 to Nov. 1, 1961.

In each of these of work periods, Charles reportedly underwent regular occupational asbestos exposure that ultimately contributed to his asbestos lung cancer. Charles was diagnosed with the disease on Nov. 11, 2015 and died soon after on Aug. 30, 2016.

The companies named as defendants in the asbestos lung cancer lawsuit include A. W. Chesterston Company and CBS Corporation, with Shirley alleging the companies had supplied components used for different parts of the vessel. Asbestos products were reportedly installed in sheet packing, gaskets, braided packing, pipes, valves, pumps, and insulation.

Even though occupational asbestos exposure is a significant risk to Navy veterans, the companies allegedly failed to notify Shirley or Charles about the risk at an appropriate time.

Overview of Asbestos Exposure Problems

Asbestos is a fibrous material that was historically utilized for various manufacturing and construction purposes, especially in insulation and piping. Companies often opted for asbestos for its fire and chemical resistant qualities, as well as being cheap to use.

However, numerous people have reported developing lung cancer and other chronic health problems decades after exposure to asbestos. Occupational asbestos exposure is one of the most prevalent concerns for Navy veterans who served on ships built with asbestos-based components.

When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, the fibers become lodged in the lungs and stomach respectively. Eventually the fibers may trigger the development of cancer. When this happens, asbestos lung cancer can form and quickly overtake the organs.

This disease can take decades to show any symptoms, often resulting in late diagnosis and limited treatment options. Patients can have asbestos lung cancer developing for over 30 years without realizing it due to occupational asbestos exposure when they were younger.

Charles was no different, being exposed to asbestos for years without his knowledge. Shirley is filing this asbestos lung cancer lawsuit, claiming the companies either knew or should have known the dangers associated with their products. At all times relevant, the companies failed to provide safety equipment or warnings to Charles or the general public.

This Asbestos Lung Cancer Lawsuit is Case No. 3:17-cv-00062-JRH-BKE, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia, Dublin Division.