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What If My Workplace Caused My Cancer?

On Behalf of | Jan 30, 2019 | Workplace Injury |

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“We’re sorry, but you have cancer.”

Nobody ever wants to hear those words. We know that the last thing you expect after working somewhere for a long period of time is to be diagnosed with cancer that was caused due to exposure in the workplace.

Unfortunately, thousands of people are diagnosed each year with cancer due to workplace causes. Today, we want to go over some of the causes of occupational cancers and whether or not you can receive workers’ compensation or some other form of help with your expenses.

At Hiden, Rott & Oertle, LLP, we want to help you through this process when you need a San Diego work injury attorney.

What Are The Numbers?

When it comes to work-related cancers, we know that regulations over the last few decades have certainly helped lower employees’ risks of exposure to dangerous chemicals, but there are still many dangers.

  • Around 4% of cancer patients in the US can trace the cause of cancer to work-related exposure.

It is estimated that occupational cancers are one of the leading causes of death when it comes to work-related fatalities.

There are certain jobs that put workers at higher risk of cancer. They include:

  • Rubber manufacturing
  • Agriculture jobs
  • Hairdressers and barbers
  • Mechanics
  • Construction workers
  • Manicurists and Pedicurists
  • Plastic workers
  • Mining
  • Metalworker

When we look at those jobs, we can see similarities. They are all often exposed to chemicals, airborne particles, and other carcinogens that can be cancer-causing.

Other Long-Term Illnesses

Exposure to the particles, carcinogens, and chemicals that cause cancer can also have other harmful long-term consequences. This can include:

  • COPD
  • Asthma
  • Complications during pregnancy
  • Birth defects
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney failure
  • Liver failure

These illnesses often do not have symptoms that show up for years or even decades. Sometimes, a person is not diagnosed with cancer until well after they have retired.

But does that mean they cannot be compensated?

Not necessarily. If it can be proven that your cancer or other long-term illness was caused as a direct result of exposure in the workplace, you could be eligible for workers compensation or funds through a civil lawsuit. There are usually time limits imposed on these types of claims. Typically, the statute of limitations is two years from the time of the injury or illness or from the time the injury or illness was discovered. That is why it is vital to act quickly upon learning of any illness.

Your Options Now

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with cancer or another long-term illness and you think it was caused by workplace exposure, see legal assistance now. At Hiden, Rott & Oertle, LLP, we will work to investigate your case so we can secure the compensation you deserve. This often includes:

  • Coverage or all medical expenses related to the illness
  • Lost wages and benefits if you missed work or are unable to work
  • Pain and suffering damages
  • Possible punitive damages

When you need a work injury attorney in San Diego, you can contact us for a free consultation by calling at at our office.

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