Lung Cancer Lawsuit Linked to Asbestos Exposure

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News Summary

Collie Washington, Jr., a former civilian welder at Long Beach Naval Shipyard, has been diagnosed with lung cancer attributed to asbestos exposure. Washington is filing a lawsuit against multiple corporations for negligence and product liability, highlighting the dangers of asbestos use in the construction and shipbuilding industries. The case underscores the ongoing risks and health implications for workers who handled asbestos-containing materials.

Former Welder Files Lawsuit After Lung Cancer Diagnosis Tied to Asbestos Exposure

In a troubling case that underscores the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure, Collie Washington, Jr., a civilian welder with a storied career at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard, has been diagnosed with lung cancer as of September 2024. After years of working with asbestos-contaminated materials during his employment and through various home renovation jobs around Los Angeles, Washington’s diagnosis marks yet another heartbreaking instance of the deadly ramifications of prolonged asbestos exposure.

Asbestos Use: A Hidden Dangers across the Decades

Asbestos was extensively used in the construction and shipbuilding industries from the 1960s through the 1980s, primarily for its insulating properties and resistance to heat. However, this so-called “miracle mineral” has become infamous due to the myriad health problems it causes, particularly mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs.

Collie Washington’s work history places him in direct contact with a variety of asbestos-laden products. His responsibilities as a welder, coupled with numerous home maintenance tasks in LA, ultimately led to his diagnosis of asbestosis – a serious lung disease caused by asbestos fibers.

Filing for Justice: Washington Takes on Major Corporations

In light of his severe health challenges, Washington has turned to the legal system in pursuit of justice. He has filed a personal injury lawsuit against several well-known corporations that manufactured and distributed asbestos-containing products, citing principles of negligence and product liability. Among those named in the lawsuit are industry giants such as Air & Liquid Corporation, Armstrong International, Carrier Corporation, and General Electric.

Washington’s claim includes a comprehensive list of the harmful products associated with his work, ranging from steam traps and pumps to HVAC equipment and various joint compounds.

A Naval Officer’s Insights on Asbestos Risks

A fascinating development in the case is the declaration submitted from retired Rear Admiral David P. Sargent, Jr., who offers crucial insight into the Navy’s extensive use of asbestos in shipbuilding. This declaration shines a glaring light on the hazardous environment at shipyards during the time Washington was employed, underscoring the lack of necessary protections against asbestos exposure that many workers faced.

Retired Rear Admiral Sargent, who served from 1967 to 1999 in various technical management roles, emphasized the detrimental impact that asbestos regulations—or, rather, the absence of them—had on military personnel and civilian workers alike who staffed the ships. His insights could prove pivotal in a jury’s understanding of the case.

Upcoming Court Proceedings: A Battle for Accountability

Washington’s lawsuit is currently being processed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. While several defendants sought to have the case removed to federal court, it has recently been remanded back to state court. With the trial approaching, Washington’s fight against the companies responsible for his suffering is on the brink of public scrutiny.

What This Means for Victims and Their Families

The case highlights the ongoing issues related to asbestos exposure not only for workers in shipyards but also for individuals involved in home renovations and other construction jobs. For those diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases, seeking legal assistance can be a crucial step toward gaining compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering.

As Washington’s lawsuit heads to trial, the outcome could set a precedent for future cases involving asbestos exposure and provide hope to other victims suffering from these debilitating conditions.

If you or someone you know has faced a similar diagnosis, consider reaching out to specialized patient advocates. They can assist with navigating the complexities of legal options and medical resources available for those affected by asbestos-related diseases.