From 1930 to 1993, CertainTeed Corporation was one of the leading manufacturers of asbestos-containing materials. Eventually, the pressure and financial strain from growing asbestos litigation forced CertainTeed’s subsidiary, DBMP, to file for bankruptcy in 2020. Even though details about the company’s reorganization are still pending, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or a similar illness due to exposure to asbestos-containing products manufactured by CertainTeed, it still might be possible to pursue compensation.
CertainTeed and Its History of Asbestos Usage
Until the early 1990s, CertainTeed manufactured various products that contained asbestos including cement pipes and roof coating. Before its dangers were well-documented, companies like CertainTeed valued asbestos as a highly durable and heat resistant substance. Products manufactured by CertainTeed were used in various industries including construction and industrial. Subsequently, workers in a variety of positions were exposed to CertainTeed’s asbestos products.
The CertainTeed Asbestos Exposure Trust Fund
CertainTeed ended up facing substantial liabilities due to a large number of asbestos exposure claims. As a result, in 2019, CertainTeed attempted restructuring and established two separate business entities: CertainTeed LLC and DBMP LLC. As a result of this restructuring, all of CertainTeed’s asbestos-related liabilities were consumed by DBMP. After DBMP filed for bankruptcy at the beginning of 2020, CertainTeed was allowed to continue its operations without being involved in bankruptcy proceedings. Pending bankruptcy documents will make an assessment about how much money should pass into an asbestos exposure trust fund that can be used to compensate both current and future asbestos claims.
Asbestos Litigation Involving CertainTeed
Data shows that in 2017, approximately 3,100 asbestos claims were initiated against CertainTeed. Some of the most well known asbestos exposure lawsuits in which CertainTeed has been involved include:
- In 2018, an Arizona state jury found that CertainTeed Corporation was not responsible for the death of a pipefitter whose family argued that the worker had developed cancer after years of inhaling dust created from asbestos cement pipes. The jury returned the verdict following three hours of deliberation. The jury also rejected the argument from the man’s widow and three children that CertainTeed knew their cement pipes presented a health risk but failed to adequately warn workers.
- In 2020, a lawsuit was filed by Michael and Cindy Burch of California against Certain Teed. Burch had spent years working as a pipe installer. After he was diagnosed with mesothelioma, Burch initiated a lawsuit against CertainTeed arguing that the company knowingly exposed him to asbestos. The jury found that each of the elements of fraudulent concealment were present and subsequently awarded Mr. Burch $9.25 million in non-economic damages and approximately $800,000 in economic damages.
Let an Asbestos Exposure Attorney Fight for You
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another similar illness due to asbestos exposure, there are several things you can do to take control of your situation including obtaining the assistance of an experienced attorney. Contact the Throneberry Law Group today for assistance. You can reach us by calling (888) 506-1131 or schedule an appointment with us using our online form.
