For purposes of this article, the mesothelioma victim in this case will be referred to as N.B.
In a recent court decision, a Connecticut jury awarded $15 million to the family of a man, N.B., who died of malignant mesothelioma in 2023. The jury reached this decision quickly, indicating a clear and decisive outcome.
After N.B., a father of three, died in 2023 at the age of 81, his family filed a mesothelioma claim. N.B. had a degree in chemical engineering and a history of service in the U.S. Army. According to the lawsuit filed by N.B.’s family, his malignant mesothelioma developed due to prolonged asbestos exposure at the General Electric plastics plant where he worked. The family filed the claim against R. T. Vanderbilt Holding, Inc. This company had acquired International Talc, the supplier of the talc used at the plant where N.B. worked. R.T. Vanderbilt tried to have the case dismissed. The company argued they should not be held liable as the successor in interest. The court denied this argument because the company continued the product line after the acquisition. This action led to the company inheriting associated liabilities.
During the trial, the claimant’s side presented substantial evidence showing that the talc purchased by General Electric came from the Arnold Pit in NY. This site is known to have been contaminated with asbestos, which means that the talc sold to General Electric was asbestos-contaminated. This asbestos-contaminated talc led to N.B. being exposed to asbestos at his workplace, which in turn led to the development of his malignant mesothelioma.
Less than two hours after the decision was handed to the jury, jury members ordered the defendant to pay the family of N.B. $15 million in compensatory damages. The jury’s swift decision provided some measure of justice to N.B.’s family. On top of awarding compensatory damages, the jury indicated that punitive damages are appropriate in the case. However, the decision regarding these damages will be discussed at a later date. If punitive damages are awarded, the award will increase substantially since punitive damages are awarded on top of compensatory damages. Punitive damages, unlike compensatory damages, which are meant to compensate claimants for the harm or loss suffered, are intended to punish the defendant(s) and deter harmful behavior in the future.
Some Basic Information on Malignant Mesothelioma and Asbestos
Malignant mesothelioma is a form of cancer that develops in the tissue that lines most internal organs. Mesothelioma is quite aggressive, and unfortunately, a cure is yet to be found. However, the good news is that there are several mesothelioma treatment options. The only known cause of malignant mesothelioma is asbestos. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can get stuck in the body. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation and scarring.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.