Occupational Diseases and Your Right to Workers’ Compensation in Alabama



In Alabama, thousands of workers put their health at risk on the job daily. They may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, harmful dust, asbestos, or excessive sunlight. Such exposures can lead to severe occupational diseases, including Asbestosis, Mesothelioma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and various skin diseases. According to the Alabama Workers' Compensation Act, workers suffering from such conditions are eligible for compensation. As an experienced Alabama personal injury attorney, Stephen Thompson is well versed in handling such delicate and complex workers' compensation cases.

Occupational diseases, unlike workplace injuries, develop over an extended period due to repeated exposure to harmful substances or hazardous work environments. Let's delve into some of these occupational diseases:

Asbestosis and Mesothelioma

Asbestosis and Mesothelioma are deadly diseases that primarily affect individuals exposed to asbestos, commonly found in industrial settings, insulation materials, automotive parts, and older buildings. Asbestosis occurs when inhaled asbestos fibers scar lung tissue, causing severe breathing problems and, in some situations, cardiac failure. Mesothelioma, on the other hand, is a rare and aggressive form of cancer mainly affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen and is directly linked to asbestos exposure. The prognosis for this rare cancer is often poor, and medical treatment can be expensive. Therefore, achieving a successful workers' compensation claim can help victims meet their financial needs during this challenging time.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Long-term exposure to particulates, vapors, chemicals, or harmful dust in the workplace can lead to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a progressive lung disorder that includes ailments like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It can make it difficult for the affected person to breathe and perform regular daily activities. If your work exposure has caused or exacerbated COPD, you may have a valid workers' compensation claim.

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Skin Diseases

Given that the skin is our body's largest organ, it's not surprising that it can be affected by occupational hazards. Regular exposure to harsh chemicals or excessive sunlight can cause various skin diseases, ranging from contact dermatitis and chemical burns to skin cancer. Whether you work outdoors under the blazing Alabama sun or inside with exposure to harmful chemical substances, if you've developed a job-related skin disease, you're likely entitled to workers' compensation.

Claiming Compensation

Despite the presence of tangible evidence, filing for compensation for an occupational disease under the Alabama Workers' Compensation Act can be challenging. For this reason, it's critical to enlist the services of an experienced personal injury lawyer like Stephen Thompson.

Stephen employs his comprehensive knowledge of Alabama's Workers’ Compensation laws to help workers understand their rights and navigate the complexity of occupational disease claims. He's committed to ensuring that workers get the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost income, and permanent impairment.

Potential clients should realize that making a successful workers' compensation claim for occupational diseases often requires a strategic approach. Proving the direct link between the workplace environment and the disease is crucial. Along with medical evidence and records, your attorney might also require occupational histories, exposure records, and expert medical opinions to build a robust case. 

If you're an Alabama worker who believes that your disease was caused by the conditions of your employment, you deserve to be compensated. Opting for seasoned legal expertise can increase the chances of you securing the full benefits you are owed. Stephen Thompson, an experienced Alabama workers' compensation attorney, is here to help. Don't go through this process alone; contact us today to begin your journey of claiming what is rightfully yours.

Additional Reading

Recent Alabama Decisions Related to this Subject

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