Ex-Shipyard Worker Develops Asbestos Cancer. His Wife Files a Lawsuit Against Exxon.

In recent news about the dangers of exposure to asbestos, a long-retired shipyard worker in Newport was diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer.

He worked for 33 years in the shipyard, mostly as an electrician, never knowing the asbestos exposure would eventually cause him to develop cancer.

Yet having breathed in millions of tiny asbestos fibers over the years, the former shipyard employee began feeling sick in late 2005. He had a lung removed and then died of mesothelioma cancer at age 72.

His family has now brought a case against oil giant Exxon, which owned some of the ships the man worked on at the yard.

They accuse Exxon of negligently causing his death.

The lawsuit, brought by his widow, contends the oil company knew of the risks of asbestos as early as 1937, and didn't take any steps to prevent harm.

Her husband had worked on many kinds of ships over the years, including new construction Navy aircraft carriers such as the USS America and USS Enterprise, cargo ships and other vessels. He was likely exposed to lots of asbestos along the way.

The lawsuit claims the ex-shipyard worker was exposed when other workers ripped asbestos insulation and other parts from piping in engine and boiler rooms.

It is also alleged that the company did not warn workers at shipyards or even on its own tanker crews of the dangers of asbestos--that it could cause cancer.

Many shipyard workers have come forward to say their job led to a diagnosis of mesothelioma, asbestosis or lung cancer from asbestos.

If this has been your experience, we may be able to help.

For over two decades, Weitz & Luxenberg P.C. has handled some of the most legally complicated and groundbreaking asbestos litigation in the country. Men and women diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure or secondary exposure may be entitled to compensation from the companies responsible for their disease.

If you would like a free consultation or more information about your legal options, please complete the form on this page, and a representative of our law firm will contact you as soon as possible.