Each year more than 3,000 people die from mesothelioma, a disease that is almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos - a material once widely used in a number of building, industrial, automotive and other products. Asbestos exposure may also cause asbestosis, an inflammation of the lungs, and lung cancer. While the dangers of asbestos have been known since at least the 1930s, many irresponsible companies continued to put individuals at risk.

Even those who were exposed for as little as one month, as well as their family members, may be affected. Yet the symptoms can take years to develop, or they are attributed to other illnesses. If you or a loved one suffers from asbestosis, mesothelioma or other complications of asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to compensation.