Mesothelioma Litigation

A U.S. Navy veteran who developed malignant mesothelioma has received a $32 million settlement after working for companies aboard several ships that failed to warn him about the asbestos exposure he was facing.

According to WSAZ, the trial lasted for nine weeks and Ronald Dummitt received $16 million for past pain and suffering and $16 million for future pain and suffering.

"While no amount of money can restore Mr. Dummitt's health, this verdict is just, and it represents all that we can do to set things right," said the victim's mesothelioma lawyer in a statement released earlier this week.

The Navy veteran worked around boilers on seven different vessels during his years of service from 1960 to 1977. According to the statement, it was revealed that he had developed mesothelioma after removing and replacing valves that contained asbestos-lagging pads.

Dummitt was also later exposed when removing similar pads along with manhole gaskets when he was working on a deaerating feed tank. The jury ruled that in both incidents the companies acted with reckless danger in regards to the plaintiff's safety.

In addition to malignant mesothelioma, asbestos exposure can cause asbestosis and lung cancer.