Asbestos Isn’t Banned in the U.S.: What This Means for Personal Injury Law

JACKSON, Mississippi. Despite the fact that asbestos is known to cause cancer, many might be shocked to learn that the substance has not been banned entirely in the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency has a list of uses of asbestos that still remain legal in the U.S. Asbestos is still permitted in cement, pipeline wrap, roofing, transmission components in cars, clutch facings, brake pads in cars, and even in certain types of clothing. Yet, this list of permitted uses may expand. According to QZ, the Environmental Protection Agency plans to evaluate the safety of new asbestos uses. The list of possible uses include construction materials, car parts, and insulation products. In addition to permitting asbestos for certain uses, the EPA has also chosen not to evaluate the risk of asbestos disposal to human health. This means that disposal sites could potentially have asbestos. It isn’t clear whether these sites pose a risk of water and soil contamination. While it isn’t entirely clear how many people are affected by asbestos exposure, the Environmental Working Group puts the number of people who die due to asbestos exposure at around 12,000 and 15,000. Asbestos has been linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, cancer of the ovaries, and cancer of the larynx. According to ABC News, advocates believe that given the known risks of asbestos, the substance should be banned entirely. What does all this mean for victims who develop lung cancer, mesothelioma, or other conditions because of believed asbestos exposure? As long as asbestos continues to be used and continues to be present in buildings, cars, and in our environment, it will continue to pose a risk to human health. Individuals who develop lung cancer, mesothelioma, or cancer of the ovaries or larynx are wise to evaluate their potential exposure to the material. Certain individuals are more at risk, such as people who work in construction, people who repair car transmissions, brakes, and clutches. Roofers who use materials with asbestos could also be at risk. Individuals who live in buildings where there is asbestos can also be exposed. If you or a loved one has developed lung cancer, mesothelioma, or another condition linked to asbestos exposure, consider your rights. Industries that continue to use this dangerous substance should be held accountable for their actions. When the use of asbestos hits industries in their pocket books, it may become more likely that the substance will be phased out over time. If you or a loved one has suffered an illness or personal injury due to another person or company’s actions, consider speaking to the Law Offices of Malouf & Malouf, personal injury attorneys in Jackson, Mississippi. We may be able to help you seek damages for your lost wages, pain and suffering, and other injuries. Visit us at https://malouflaw.com/ to learn more and to protect your rights.   Malouf & Malouf, PLLC 501 E Capitol St. Jackson, MS 39201 Phone Number: (601) 522-2222