File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in California

Until bans took effect in the 1970s, asbestos was widely used as an additive in construction materials for buildings such as homes, schools, factories, offices, stores, government buildings, hospitals, and more throughout the state. Given the scope of its use, it’s no exaggeration to say that asbestos exposure could happen anywhere.

However, some areas have higher rates of asbestos-related deaths and illnesses. Cities with strong historical ties to asbestos companies or locations near asbestos-related Superfund cleanup sites tend have increased rates of problems. For example, Los Angeles County averages 282 asbestos-related deaths per year, as compared to Glenn County, which averages just one. 

California cities heavily impacted by asbestos:

• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• San Diego
• San Jose
• Oakland
• Sacramento
• Fresno
• Riverside
• El Segundo
• San Jose
• Long Beach

Asbestos industry workers did not know the dangers of asbestos, but the companies they worked for did. There was widespread industry knowledge about the dangers of asbestos as early as the 1930s. Yet, many asbestos companies continued using it until state and federal regulations in the 1970s forced them to phase it out.

These companies chose not to warn workers and consumers about the potential hazards of their products and work environments, denying people the opportunity to protect themselves from the risks of developing severe asbestos-related illnesses decades later.

High-risk occupations:

• Boiler makers/operators
• Construction workers
• Electricians
• Firefighters
• Heavy equipment operators
• Machinists and toolmakers
• Millwrights
• Oil refinery workers
• Power plant operators
• Roofers
• Shipyard laborers
• U.S. Military Veterans

During the 20th century, asbestos use touched almost every industry. Companies valued it for its nonconductivity, durability, and fireproofing abilities. Its low price point and abundant supply meant that many asbestos companies were not interested in investigating safer alternatives. 

These companies knew their products were dangerous, yet they continued to use and sell them, endangering millions of people. Although the federal government banned the final variety of asbestos in the U.S. in 2024, asbestos-related risks still exist, particularly for those who work in older buildings or with older vehicles, where legacy asbestos components may remain. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma but you’re not sure exactly which products you came into contact with, don’t lose hope. The lawyers at Meirowitz & Wasserberg are trained in specialized interview techniques and have access to tools such as databases and product binders to help you pinpoint the source of your asbestos exposure.

Common asbestos-containing products in Florida:

• Automobile/industrial brakes
• Boilers
• Engines (gaskets and seals)
• Ceiling panels
• Cement pipes and panels
• Insulation
• Fireproofing sprays
• Floor tiles
• Roofing shingles
• Textiles (fireproof clothing, blankets, pads, and mats)
• Textured wall coatings

Getting a mesothelioma diagnosis is a frightening and isolating experience. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed; however, you shouldn’t delay pursuing compensation for long. California has one of the shortest statutes of limitations in the country, limiting victims to just a single year to file for critical compensation.

We can help you hit the ground running with a free case evaluation to determine your eligibility and tailored assistance in identifying which forms of compensation you qualify for. We’ve helped mesothelioma patients and their families across the country secure over $1.5 billion in compensation to cover treatment costs, make up for lost income, and create financial stability for their loved ones. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late to get help. We can help you begin the filing process in California in just a few minutes. Reach out to us today to get started.