June 5, 2014 — The family of a man who died of mesothelioma after he was exposed to asbestos has been awarded $10.9 million by a jury in Fresno, California.
The lawsuit was filed on behalf of James “Jimmy” Phillips, a 59 year-old plumber who worked on cars, race cars, trucks, and heavy machinery since the 1960s. He was exposed to brake pads and linings containing asbestos that were manufactured by Bendix, a predecessor to Honeywell. Phillips was diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma in March 2012. Despite treatment, he died one year later. He left behind a wife of 41 years, five children, and 14 grandchildren.
The lawsuit was originally filed in May 2012 in Alameda County, but was transferred to Fresno at the defendants’ request. After a two-week trial, jurors deliberated for six days. They found Bendix/Honeywell liable for 30% of the claim, awarding $7.4 million in compensation and $3.5 million in punitive damages. This is the first time a jury in Fresno has awarded damages in a mesothelioma lawsuit.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber that is found in a variety of products to provide fire-resistance, insulation, and strength. Mesothelioma grows in the lungs, chest lining, and abdominal cavity.
The disease primarily affects people who inhaled large amounts of asbestos over a long period of time. Symptoms typically appear 20-30 years after exposure. Most people who are exposed to small amounts of asbestos are not at risk. However, secondhand exposure to asbestos (for example, on the work clothes of a loved one) has been linked to cases of mesothelioma.
Do I have a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting asbestos induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by mesothelioma, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Toxic Substance Exposure Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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