In Knoxville and across East Tennessee, hardworking men and women are being diagnosed with devastating illnesses due to asbestos exposure on the job. Mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other life-threatening diseases are impacting families right here in our community all because of negligent companies that failed to protect their employees from toxic asbestos. If you have been a victim of occupational asbestos exposure, you have the right to demand justice and compensation. The asbestos attorneys at Throneberry Law Group are here to fight tirelessly for you.
Companies and Job Sites With Asbestos Risks in Knoxville
Many industrial, construction, and manufacturing workplaces in the Knoxville area used asbestos extensively prior to the 1980s, putting workers and their families at risk of exposure. Some of the companies and worksites known to have contained asbestos include:
- Alcoa Inc. (Aluminum Company of America): This massive aluminum production facility on the outskirts of Knoxville used asbestos insulation and fireproofing materials throughout its plant and equipment. Thousands of workers, from smelters to maintenance crews, were likely exposed.
- Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) power plants: Coal-fired and hydroelectric power plants owned by the TVA, such as the nearby Bull Run and Kingston plants, used asbestos in their construction and operation. Boiler workers, pipefitters, electricians, and other TVA employees may have been exposed on the job.
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory: This sprawling government research facility has been a major employer in Knoxville since the 1940s. Many of its older buildings contained asbestos, putting scientists, technicians, and support staff at risk.
- Knoxville construction and demolition sites: Any commercial or residential building constructed before the 1980s likely harbored asbestos. Construction workers, roofers, drywallers, demolition crews, and others in the construction industry in Knoxville may have been exposed while on the job.
Your Risk of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning it can take 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure before the disease develops and causes symptoms. As a result, Knoxville workers exposed decades ago are just now being diagnosed.
It is important to know that you can still file a mesothelioma claim even if your exposure happened many years ago and the companies responsible have gone out of business. You may be entitled to compensation through asbestos trust funds and other sources. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can explain your rights and options.
Mesothelioma is not the only danger posed by asbestos. This deadly mineral can also cause lung cancer, asbestosis, and other disabling respiratory conditions. If you are experiencing any symptoms like persistent cough, breathing difficulties, or chest pain, see your doctor right away, especially if you have a history of occupational asbestos exposure.
Get Justice for Your Asbestos Exposure in Knoxville
Being diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos disease is devastating. But you do not have to face it alone. The compassionate attorneys at Throneberry Law Group are here to help you get through the legal process and secure the financial compensation you and your family deserve. Contact Throneberry Law Group today for a free consultation.
