When a client initially approaches our team, one of the key facts we need to know is when they first realised they were suffering with an asbestos related disease. Many clients speak to us straight away and we can begin the necessary investigations into whether they have a claim. However, some people may put off getting in touch and sadly this can cause real difficulties in pursuing a claim.
Limitation Period
This is because there are time limits in all personal injury claims and Court proceedings must be issued within 3 years of a person becoming aware of a significant injury that they should have attributed to the negligence of a third party. Whilst the Court can exercise its discretion in extending this time period, for example if the delay has not caused any prejudice in the claim, this is not guaranteed and should not be relied upon.
Within that 3-year period, lots of work needs to be done to ensure that we are ready to issue Court proceedings at the appropriate time. This means that if a person leaves it too late to get in touch with us, there may be insufficient time to prepare the relevant documentation causing them to miss out on pursuing a claim worth thousands of pounds.
We, therefore, always recommend that people get in touch with us as soon as they have any indication that they are suffering with an asbestos related condition and might have a claim. If it happens that there is no compensatable condition to be claimed for at that time, we can still provide advice on what to look out for to ensure their legal position is protected if and when they need assistance in the future. As all our claims are run on a no win, no fee basis, there is nothing to lose by enquiring.
Greater Range of Treatment Options
Aside from the legal claim, an early diagnosis can make a tremendous difference to the medical treatment options that are available, particularly to someone suffering with mesothelioma. In recent years, treatment for the asbestos related cancer has developed significantly and the results are a notable increase in life expectancy. Patients who are eligible to undergo treatment options including chemotherapy and immunotherapy must be well enough to do so and, therefore, the earlier the condition is detected, the better the chance they have of not only extending their life but also improving their quality of life. We can include the costs of private treatment for mesothelioma as part of the settlement of a claim however, if a claimant is out of time for looking into a claim for any asbestos related condition (not just mesothelioma) they will miss out on this aspect of the claim as well.
Early Advice from an Asbestos Solicitor
Being told you or a loved one has developed an asbestos related disease such as pleural thickening, asbestosis (asbestos related fibrosis), asbestos related lung cancer or mesothelioma is something nobody wants to imagine but sadly, each day we talk to people who have received a devastating diagnosis such as this. Whilst it may not be something that you want to think about, it is always important to approach your doctor if you have any symptoms of these conditions, such as breathing difficulties or chest pain, to ensure that if it is due to an asbestos related condition, you can take the necessary steps forward as soon as possible.
If you require assistance in pursuing an asbestos disease claim, then please 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.