How Much Compensation Can You Expect to Receive from an Asbestos Claim? 

Asbestos exposure in the UK has been responsible for causing serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, and pleural thickening. These illnesses can have devastating effects on individuals and their families, often leading to long-term health complications, financial hardship, and, in many cases, premature death. If you or a loved one has been affected by an asbestos-related illness, pursuing a compensation claim can provide the financial support needed to manage these challenges. But how much compensation can you realistically expect from an asbestos claim? 

Factors Affecting the Amount of Asbestos Claim Compensation 

Several factors influence the amount of compensation you might receive for an asbestos-related illness: 

1. Severity of the Illness: The type and stage of the asbestos-related disease play a crucial part in what the value may be. Mesothelioma, a terminal asbestos-related cancer with no cure, typically results in higher compensation than conditions such as minor pleural thickening. 

2. Impact on Quality of Life: The extent to which the illness has affected your daily life is also considered. This includes the pain and symptoms, emotional stress and worry, and loss of ability to carry out daily living activities. 

3. Loss of Income: Compensation can be claimed for loss of earnings if the condition has caused absence from work. This includes both past loss of earnings and loss of potential future earnings, especially if the illness causes early retirement. 

4. Care and Assistance: Compensation can also be claimed for the care and assistance provided by private care providers, or family and friends who have provided such care in the alternative. In the case of debilitating conditions, this can be a significant amount.  

5. Dependents and Family Members: If the asbestos-related illness has led to death, the deceased’s dependents can also claim compensation. This includes loss of financial support, funeral expenses and, in some cases, a statutory bereavement award. 

Average Compensation Amounts in the UK 

Here are some average figures, although it should be noted that each case will be considered on its own individual facts: 

• Mesothelioma Claims: Mesothelioma, the most serious asbestos-related illness, often attracts compensation amounts ranging from approximately £100,000 to £250,000 or more. This includes general damages for pain and suffering, as well as special damages covering financial losses such as lost income, medical expenses, and care costs. However, claims can be worth significantly more as commonly private treatment costs are now recovered in these cases, with treatment bills in excess of £500,000 often being covered in successful mesotheioma claims. 

• Asbestosis and Pleural Thickening Claims: Compensation for asbestosis and pleural thickening varies depending on the severity of the condition and the extent to which the condition is impacting someone’s breathing. Mild to moderate cases might result in compensation between approximately £40,000 and £90,000, while more severe cases can attract compensation exceeding £100,000. 

• Lung Cancer Claims: For lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure, compensation typically ranges between approximately £85,000 and £150,000, depending on factors such as the stage of the disease and the individual’s age and overall health. The prognosis for lung cancer can vary and this will have a bearing.  

Legal Process and Compensation Sources 

In the UK, asbestos disease compensation can be obtained through several different avenues: 

1. Civil Claims: These are typically brought against employers or companies responsible for the asbestos exposure. If the responsible company no longer exists, it may still be possible to claim against their insurers. We have specialist tools we can access to try and trace insurance and this is very often successful allowing us to pursue a successful claim.  

2. Government Compensation Schemes: The UK government provides financial support through schemes such as the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS) for those unable to trace a former employer or their insurance. This scheme can provide lump sum payments that often far exceed £150,000, depending on the age of the Claimant. 

3. Government Benefits: Those affected by asbestos disease may be eligible for government benefits such as Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) or Attendance Allowance (AA). We often assist clients in applying for these benefits as additional support.  

Steps to Maximize Your Asbestos Claim Compensation 

1. Seek Legal Advice Early: Engaging a solicitor with expertise in asbestos claims is essential.  As specialists in asbestos disease we understand all the factors which can have a bearing on a claim and ensure that compensation is maximised.  

2. Gather Evidence in Support of your Losses: Keep records of the financial losses you have incurred as a result of your condition, including loss of earnings or overtime. Try keeping a diary of the way your symptoms have affected you and what care and assistance you have required from family and friends.  

3. Consider All Available Avenues: Don’t overlook potential compensation from multiple sources. This includes civil claims, government schemes, and benefits. Your solicitor can advise on how best to navigate these options. 

How can we Help?  

Compensation for asbestos-related illnesses in the UK can provide much-needed financial relief for victims and their families. While the amount of compensation varies depending on the severity of the illness and other factors, understanding the potential compensation and the avenues available can help you make informed decisions about pursuing a claim. 

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related condition, it is essential to seek expert legal advice as soon as possible. With the right support, you can maximize your compensation and secure the financial assistance necessary to cope with the challenges ahead. 

How can we help?  

 If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related condition, we can help. Contact us today on our freephone number 0800 038 6767. Alternatively, head over to the ‘Contact Us’ page, complete the form and we will be in touch.