For decades, hard-working Omaha residents went to work each day, not knowing the silent danger that lurked in their workplaces. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction, manufacturing, and industrial applications, has left a devastating legacy of illness and loss in our community. At Throneberry Law Group, we have witnessed the heartbreaking impact of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases on Omaha families. Our Omaha Mesothelioma attorneys are committed to fighting for the rights of those harmed by asbestos exposure and holding the companies that used this deadly substance accountable. For those diagnosed with mesothelioma, we are here to help you understand your options and get the justice you deserve.
Omaha Workplaces With Known Asbestos Exposure
Many Omaha job sites used asbestos extensively before the dangers became fully known, putting workers at risk of exposure and later developing mesothelioma. Some of the companies and industries in Omaha that utilized asbestos include:
- Union Pacific Railroad: For many years, UP has used asbestos insulation in the construction of railcars and locomotives, as well as in its rail yards and repair facilities. This put machinists, carpenters, pipefitters, and other rail workers at high risk.
- Western Electric/AT&T: The Western Electric plant in Omaha, which later became AT&T, used asbestos in the manufacturing of telephones, wires, cables, and other electrical equipment. Factory workers faced regular asbestos exposure.
- Omaha Public Power District: OPPD’s Nebraska City and North Omaha power plants contained asbestos in their turbines, boilers, pipes, and machinery. Plant workers, electricians, and maintenance personnel were likely exposed.
- Asarco Lead Refinery: This lead refining facility uses asbestos in its furnaces and piping as an insulator and fire retardant. Metal workers and furnace operators are among those who may have been harmed by asbestos here.
- Construction and demolition sites: Many older homes, schools, and buildings throughout Omaha were constructed with asbestos-containing materials. Construction workers, roofers, drywallers, demolition crews, and others in the building trades faced exposure on the job for years.
What Omaha Mesothelioma Victims Need to Know
Mesothelioma and other asbestos illnesses often do not emerge until 20-50 years after a person’s initial exposure. This long latency period can make it difficult to pinpoint where and when the harmful asbestos contact occurred. However, that doesn’t mean you cannot seek justice and compensation for what you’ve endured.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these are the key things to keep in mind:
- You have a limited time to take legal action. Mesothelioma lawsuits have statutes of limitations, so act promptly.
- You will need to gather documentation of your diagnosis, work history, and asbestos exposure to the extent possible. An experienced Omaha Mesothelioma lawyer can help with this.
- You may be eligible to file a lawsuit against one or more of the asbestos companies responsible for your exposure and/or to submit a claim to an asbestos trust fund.
Most importantly, remember that you did nothing wrong and don’t have to get through this difficult time alone. Contact Throneberry Law Group today for a free consultation, and let our Omaha Mesothelioma attorneys use their knowledge, resources, and dedication to help you.
