Personal injury advice from
Thompsons Solicitors
Northern Ireland Pleural Plaques Victims Now Have Right to Compensation
14th December 2011
From today, 14th December 2011, pleural plaques sufferers in Northern Ireland will be able to seek compensation from those who negligently exposed them to asbestos.
Pleural Plaques
Pleural plaques is a condition caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibres. People with the condition have areas of scarring on the lining of their lungs, which indicate that they have been permanently damaged.
Although sufferers rarely experience symptoms, the condition can cause them a great deal of anxiety as they are at an increased risk of developing serious asbestos-related illnesses, such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Asbestos Compensation
Until 2007 people with pleural plaques were entitled to make a compensation claim if they had been exposed to asbestos through the negligence of someone else, usually an employer. A decision made by the House of Lords ended this right however, an unjust decision which was very distressing to those affected.
The right to compensation has already been restored in Scotland by the Scottish Parliament and now pleural plaques sufferers whose exposure to asbestos occurred in Northern Ireland will also have this right. Unfortunately, victims in England and Wales are still denied compensation at present.
Industrial Disease Advice
If you have been diagnosed with pleural plaques, or any other industrial disease, it is important to seek the advice of a specialist lawyer at the earliest opportunity.
At The Legal Line, our lawyers are experts in all areas of personal injury, including work related illness claims, and we can provide you with the best possible advice on a cost-free, confidential basis. Contact us on 0800 0328511, or by completing a claim enquiry form online.
Contact us
Testimonials
"It wasn't realistic for me to work any more and the loss of my income placed an additional strain on us."
Jane Evans
Mother of Rebecca
Personal Injury News
