Planning > Filing for Compensation Early

Taking care of your medical needs is always the most important matter to consider when you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, but sometimes financial pressures can make treatment decisions more difficult. Compensation from the asbestos manufacturers is one way to help ease financial concerns over the cost of treatment as well as seeing that your family’s future is made more secure.

It is generally a good idea to look at compensation in the same way that you approach your medical decisions – as an option you have to maintain control over your life. Filing your claim early on is important for several reasons:

• Freedom of Choice for Treatment
  Mesothelioma is still considered a relatively rare cancer, and therefore, it is sometimes important to seek a second opinion or surgical option from a mesothelioma specialist. Unfortunately, these doctors may be located some distance from where you live, and there may be costs for transportation and lodging as well as for medical services. You may also wish to participate in a clinical trial which are normally offered only at a limited number of cancer facilities. In short, not every medical option may be available locally, and having the financial freedom to consider every option soon after diagnosis is important.
• Statute of Limitations
  Every state has a Statute of Limitations, or a time period in which you may file a claim. Once the Statute of Limitations has expired, you forfeit the right to compensation. The rules governing when statues go into effect may vary from state to state.
• Information Necessary for the Claims Process
  There is information relative to your work history and asbestos exposure that you can supply better than anyone else. If you become too ill or pass away before filing a claim, it will be that much more difficult to establish how, when, where and to what products you may have been exposed.

For more information on state statutes of limitations or information related to the claims process, contact a mesothelioma attorney.