File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in New York

New York State is characterized by a unique combination of big city economic power and large stretches of rural and agricultural territory. As in the rest of the United States, asbestos was used to construct both public, commercial, and residential buildings throughout the state, but was especially prevalent in areas with heavy manufacturing, mining, and shipbuilding.

One prime example is New York’s so-called “Asbestos Alley,” which includes the Buffalo metropolitan area and portions of Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Erie counties. In Niagara County specifically, the annual asbestos mortality rate per 100,000 people is 14.5, compared to the U.S. average of 4.9. 

High-risk cities in New York

• Buffalo
• New York City
• Bronx
• Brooklyn
• Albany
• Saratoga Springs
• Schenectady
• Rochester
• Lockport
• Olean
• Niagara Falls
• Gouverneur

The use of asbestos was not concentrated in any one industry or profession. It has impacted individuals across hundreds of industries and thousands of jobs. Specifically, those who worked in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and the military are at high risk due to the heavy use of asbestos in these industries.

Asbestos manufacturers failed to protect consumers and employees from the dangers of their products for decades. Although New York now has many laws and regulations governing the use and remediation of asbestos, individuals in some jobs, such as demolition, maintenance, and HVAC workers, remain at high risk for exposure to legacy asbestos. 

High-risk occupations:

• Shipyard workers
• Firefighters
• Construction laborers
• Roofers
• Construction workers
• School maintenance and custodial staff
• Automotive mechanics
• Manufacturing plant employees
• Miners
• Electricians
• Insulation installers
• Power plant mechanics
• U.S. Navy Veterans

Asbestos was widely used as an industrial and manufacturing additive throughout the 20th century. Manufacturers valued its durability and heat, fire, and chemical resistance so much that they ignored its known dangers, exposing millions of workers and consumers to life-threatening asbestos-related illnesses. 

Although the U.S. Government banned the final variety of asbestos still in use in 2024, many legacy asbestos products remain installed in older buildings and vehicles in New York. 

Common asbestos-containing products in New York:

• 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

Facing a mesothelioma diagnosis can be an isolating and overwhelming experience. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, making it challenging to locate medical care, emotional support, educational resources, and financial assistance. Our expert patient advocates are available to help support you in the aftermath of a diagnosis.

Not only can we help you determine your eligibility for compensation for free, but we can also assist you with understanding the full scope of your claim’s value, the types of compensation you may be eligible for, and critical next steps in your compensation journey. 

Additionally, we can connect you with expert mesothelioma lawyers who have the experience and resources to help you pursue compensation from asbestos trust funds, mesothelioma lawsuits, and even apply for VA Benefits. Act quickly to get your free case assessment and take the first step toward justice and compensation.