For decades, asbestos was widely used across Montana in industries like mining, construction, and manufacturing, often without workers being fully aware of the dangers. Today, many Montana residents face devastating health consequences due to mesothelioma asbestos exposure. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, understanding your rights and legal options is critical.
At Conner, Marr & Pinski, our attorneys are committed to helping victims of asbestos exposure seek justice and financial support for the harm they have endured. It wasn’t your fault you were exposed to these harmful materials, and you deserve the compensation you need.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals known for their heat resistance and durability. For much of the 20th century, asbestos was used in insulation, cement, roofing materials, and other industrial products.
Unfortunately, asbestos fibers are microscopic and can become airborne when disturbed. Once inhaled or ingested, these fibers can lodge in the lungs or abdomen, leading to severe health conditions including mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
What Is Mesothelioma and How Does Asbestos Exposure Cause It?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testes. The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos fibers. When these fibers enter the body, they cause inflammation and scarring that, over time, can lead to cellular damage and cancer development.
Common Symptoms and Stages of Mesothelioma
Symptoms of mesothelioma often take decades to appear, sometimes 20 to 50 years after the initial asbestos exposure. Common signs include:
- Persistent cough or chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal swelling or pain
Mesothelioma progresses through several stages, with early detection often proving difficult. Because symptoms mimic those of other illnesses, diagnosis frequently occurs once the disease has advanced.
Common Sources of Asbestos Exposure in Montana
Montana has a long and complex asbestos history. Workers and residents across the state, particularly in areas with industrial or mining activity, remain at risk.
High-Risk Industries and Occupations
- Mining and milling: Especially in Libby, Montana, where the W.R. Grace & Co. vermiculite mine released large amounts of asbestos fibers into the environment.
- Construction and demolition: Many older Montana buildings still contain asbestos in insulation, tiles, and roofing materials.
- Manufacturing and industrial plants: Asbestos was used in machinery, gaskets, and protective materials for decades.
Asbestos in Homes, Schools, and Public Buildings
Even after asbestos use declined, many Montana homes, schools, and government buildings retained asbestos-containing materials. Without proper removal or maintenance, renovation and repair work can release dangerous fibers into the air.
Environmental Exposure from Old Industrial or Natural Asbestos Sites
In certain regions, especially near former industrial or natural asbestos deposits, residents may have been exposed simply by living nearby. Contaminated soil, dust, or water can continue to pose health risks long after industrial operations have ceased.
The Impact of Montana’s Asbestos Legacy
Montana’s asbestos crisis, particularly in Libby, is one of the most significant environmental health disasters in U.S. history. Thousands of residents and workers have developed asbestos-related diseases, and cleanup efforts continue today.
The long latency period of mesothelioma means new cases continue to emerge decades after exposure. This ongoing impact highlights the importance of legal accountability and medical support for affected families.
The impact of asbestos is so severe that since 1999, Montana has had a death rate of 8% of people per 100,000 residents that have passed away due to an asbestos related illness. The national average is about 5%. This gap highlights the unique industrial and mining makeup of Montana that had led to an increased risk of asbestos-exposure related illnesses in the area.
Legal Options for Mesothelioma and Asbestos Victims
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lost a loved one due to asbestos exposure, you have the right to pursue legal action. Our attorneys at Conner, Marr & Pinski can help you understand your options and guide you through every step of the process.
Filing a Personal Injury or Wrongful Death Claim
Victims may be eligible to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases involving a loved one’s passing, families can pursue wrongful death claims to hold negligent parties accountable.
Families who have lost loved ones to mesothelioma may file wrongful death claims against companies responsible for the exposure. These claims are designed to seek compensation for losses including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, and emotional suffering.
Time Limits for Filing Mesothelioma Asbestos Exposure Cases in Montana
Montana law sets a strict statute of limitations of three years for filing mesothelioma and asbestos-related claims. For personal injury lawsuits, this three-year period begins from the date of diagnosis.
In wrongful death cases, families have three years from the date of the victim’s passing to file a claim. Due to the long latency period of mesothelioma, this allows victims and families some time after diagnosis or death to seek compensation.
Potential Compensation Available for Victims and Families
Depending on your case, you may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Medical expenses and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Funeral and burial costs in wrongful death cases
How Conner, Marr & Pinski Can Help
At Conner, Marr & Pinski, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of mesothelioma. Our team offers compassionate legal representation backed by decades of experience handling complex environmental and injury claims.
We investigate every aspect of your exposure history, identify responsible parties, and fight for full and fair compensation. Our mission is to provide the justice and security you and your family deserve.
While it is the responsibility of any company to properly compensate current and former workers appropriately for asbestos exposure, that doesn’t always happen. Insurance companies will do everything they can to limit payout amounts, and may go so far as to reject a fair negotiated amount and force the claim to go through the courts. If that happens, we’re prepared to step before a judge and fight for the financial restitution you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, there are several important steps you can take to protect your health and your rights.
- Seek specialized medical care. Early and coordinated treatment from doctors who understand mesothelioma can improve quality of life and extend survival time.
- Document your exposure history. Note where you lived and worked, and identify any contact with asbestos-containing materials. This information can be crucial when building your legal case.
- Keep track of medical records and expenses. Detailed documentation can strengthen your claim and help ensure that all costs are accounted for.
- Consult an experienced attorney. Legal guidance can help you secure the compensation necessary for treatment, recovery, and long-term stability.
Get Legal Support for Montana Mesothelioma Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure is a preventable tragedy that has affected far too many Montana families. You do not have to face it alone. The dedicated legal team at Conner, Marr & Pinski is here to help you pursue justice and financial relief.
Contact us today at (406) 727-3550 for a free, confidential consultation. Our experienced attorneys will go over the details of your claim and take the first steps in securing the compensation you are owed for your exposure.
