Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer Claims
If you or a loved one has developed lung cancer from asbestos exposure, you may have options for financial support. Compensation may include coverage for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. In wrongful death cases, surviving family members can pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of support and companionship, and other losses. Some patients may be eligible to pursue asbestos-related lung cancer lawsuits and file claims through the asbestos trust funds. Both paths can help provide stability and a measure of justice during this challenging time.
Last Updated:
- October 17, 2025
What Is the Average Settlement for Asbestos Lung Cancer?
Compensation for asbestos-related lung cancer claims varies widely depending on the circumstances of each case. On average, settlements may range from $100,000 to $2 million; however, every case is unique, and results are never guaranteed. Factors such as the extent of exposure, the strength of the evidence, the severity of the disease, the impacts on the patient’s life, and whether the case resolves through a settlement or trial all play a role in the outcome.
A Landmark Louisiana Verdict:
$2.75M for Lung Cancer
Our sponsor, Baron & Budd, secured a $2.75 million award for the family of a retired carpenter who passed away from lung cancer after being exposed to asbestos while working at Entergy Louisiana, Inc. (formerly Louisiana Power & Light Company). During his career, he was surrounded by insulators using asbestos-containing materials, which contributed to his lung cancer.
What Types of Asbestos Lung Cancer Claims Are Available?
Families affected by asbestos-related lung cancer often have two main paths to seek compensation. Asbestos lawsuits allow patients and their families to pursue justice and compensation from those responsible for the asbestos exposures causing the illness.
However, many asbestos product manufacturers and other companies responsible for asbestos exposure have filed for bankruptcy protection. Since those harmed by exposure can no longer sue those companies, courts have required them to set aside funds in asbestos trusts to compensate them.
The table below outlines some of the key differences between trust fund claims and lawsuits:
| Asbestos Trust Fund Claim | Asbestos Lawsuit | |
| Timeline | A few months | Typically, from nine months to two years |
| Compensation Amount | Often have reduced settlement amounts due to the trust fund’s payment percentage | Potentially higher settlement amounts |
| Process | No court involvement; avoids litigation | Requires legal representation and court proceedings |
| Deadline | Varies by trust and is often more flexible | Governed by prescription statutes, often called statutes of limitations |
* You may be eligible to file both an asbestos lawsuit and an asbestos trust claim.
Who Is Eligible for Asbestos Lung Cancer Compensation?
People diagnosed with lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure may be eligible to pursue compensation. This often includes individuals who worked with or around asbestos-containing products in shipyards, refineries, construction sites, or industrial plants in Louisiana. Trades at a high risk for exposure include insulators, pipefitters, millwrights, welders, boilermakers, machinists, steelworkers, electricians, plumbers, laborers, operators, and construction workers.
Family members may also have the right to seek damages if a loved one has died from asbestos-related lung cancer. Wrongful death claims can provide compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and loss of support and companionship. These cases not only bring financial relief but also hold companies accountable for failing to protect workers.
A Pipefitter’s Struggle
“That's where I got my main dose of asbestos.”
What Damages Are Available in an Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer Claim?
A lung cancer diagnosis linked to asbestos exposure can bring overwhelming financial and emotional strain. Through a claim, patients and their families may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages. The compensation aims to alleviate the burden of treatment costs and lost income, while also acknowledging the profound personal impacts of the disease.
Common economic damages include:
- Past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, treatments, and prescriptions
- Lost wages from time away from work
- Reduced earning capacity if you are unable to return to your job
- Funeral and burial expenses in wrongful death cases
Common non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering caused by the illness
- Emotional distress for patients and family members
- Loss of companionship or guidance for spouses and children
- Decreased quality of life due to the effects of lung cancer and treatment
A Firefighter’s Fight
“Just Want to Come Home and Sleep”
Start Your Asbestos Lung Cancer Claim Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer and you suspect asbestos exposure, it is important to act quickly. Asbestos-related cancers are aggressive, and legal deadlines can pass faster than expected. Beginning the process now can help secure financial support for medical care, lost income, and your family’s future.
Louisiana Mesothelioma Advocates can provide you with the information you need to receive the right care and make informed decisions.
Contact us online or at 504-504-MESO today.
Content Reviewed by
Todd Kale
Todd Kale meets with mesothelioma patients and their families across Louisiana to investigate their asbestos exposure, providing compassionate support and guidance during a difficult time.