Asbestos Claims

Percy Hughes & Roberts' team of expert solicitors can help you to claim compensation if you, or a member of your family, have contracted an asbestos-related disease as a result of somebody else's negligence.

From our offices in Birkenhead, we have helped hundreds of individuals across the Wirral and beyond to get their lives back on track, following a serious illness or the death of a loved one. We cover cases across Liverpool, Merseyside, Cheshire and the North West.

We have first-hand experience of the devastating impact asbestos can have on the lives of our clients, which is why we are best placed to offer support and legal representation at this time.

Speak to an experienced asbestosis and mesothelioma solicitor about your circumstances by calling 0151 666 9090, or fill out an online application form and we will be in touch at a more convenient time for you.

Asbestos explained

Asbestos is a fire-resistant material that was once widely used in building and construction. It later became evident that microscopic particles found in the substance are extremely harmful, and it was banned from use. Health experts found that when the particles are inhaled, they attach to the lung lining and become lodged in the surrounding soft tissue.

As a result, those affected will suffer from breathing difficulties, which can cause serious respiratory health complications.

Related health issues

The expert solicitors at Percy Hughes & Roberts have handled claims for the following illnesses:

Asbestosis

This life-threatening condition is contracted through inhaling asbestos fibres in a contaminated workplace. The damaging effects of asbestos mean oxygen cannot get into the bloodstream, and carbon dioxide cannot get out, resulting in the following symptoms:

• Coughing
• Tightness in the chest
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

The severity of the disease depends on the length of exposure. Diagnosis is conducted following a physical elimination involving an X-ray and breathing test. This disease is incurable, but there are some treatments that can relieve the symptoms.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that develops when particles from asbestos embed into the lining of the lungs. These cells then divide and multiply, attacking and causing permanent damage to the surrounding tissue. These cancerous cells commonly spread to other parts of the body, including the lining of the abdominal cavity and the protective membrane around the heart.

The symptoms of mesothelioma are often mistaken for pneumonia. It is vital to see your GP if you are suffering from the following symptoms:

• Abnormal coughing
• Prolonged hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Shortness of breath
• Weight loss
• Chest or abdominal pain
• Perspiration

Due to the symptoms, the condition is usually diagnosed in its advanced stages. Unfortunately, this means that life expectancy is dramatically reduced, standing at around three years after initial discovery and diagnosis. Our team is experienced in handling mesothelioma claims effectively and sensitively.

Silicosis

Silicosis disease is caused by the inhalation of silica dust. The illness is characterised by interstitial fibrosis of the lung tissue, resulting in shortness of breath. It usually develops progressively, particularly where continued exposure has been reported, which can result in continued breathing difficulty.

Pleural disease and thickening

When asbestos fibres are inhaled, they can work their way into the pleura - the double-layered membrane that lines the inside of the rib cage - and may cause fibrosis or scarring. This causes localised thickening or calcification of the outer layer of the pleura, which can spread and restrict breathing.

Where is asbestos commonly found?

Although asbestos has been banned in UK construction for several years, it is not uncommon for people to come into contact with it. Employers and councils that manage buildings have a responsibility to ensure asbestos is removed quickly. However, some old buildings still contain the substance.

These can include:

• Factories
• Homes
• Schools
• Shopping centres
• Warehouses
• Social housing

Many materials can also contain asbestos, including:

• Cement products
• Textiles - such as fire blankets
• Composites - such as toilet cisterns, sinks and bath panels
• Lagging around boilers and pipes
• Insulation - ceiling panels and wall plasterboards
• Coatings found on ceilings, beams or columns