Asbestos Litigation & Legal Aid: A Case Study on Taylorville Kroger Incident

July 8, 2023

Asbestos Litigation & Legal Aid: A Case Study on Taylorville Kroger Incident

Asbestos Attorneys: The Critical Role They Play and How Tomczak Law Group Can Assist in Illinois

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was widely used in numerous industries throughout the 20th century due to its heat and fire-resistant properties. Its pervasive use, however, has led to serious health implications, including life-threatening diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Today, many victims of asbestos exposure, particularly in industrialized states like Illinois, seek justice for their asbestos-related illnesses.

Understanding the Role of Asbestos Attorneys

Asbestos attorneys are legal professionals specializing in asbestos-related claims. They help victims of asbestos exposure file lawsuits against negligent manufacturers and employers, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by their asbestos-related diseases.

Knowledge and Expertise Required

To effectively represent their clients, asbestos attorneys must possess an intricate knowledge of complex laws surrounding asbestos use and exposure. They also need a comprehensive understanding of the medical aspects of asbestos-related diseases. Demonstrating a direct link between a victim's exposure to asbestos and their illness is a key factor in these cases.

Filing a Mesothelioma Claim in Illinois: Why it Matters

Illinois' history of industrialization and widespread asbestos use has sadly led to a high incidence of asbestos-related diseases. The state ranks No. 7 in the nation for asbestos-related deaths. In response to the high volume of asbestos litigation, Madison County, Illinois, known as a prominent jurisdiction for such cases, has implemented a fast-track filing process to efficiently manage these lawsuits.

Asbestos-Related Deaths in Illinois." Asbestos Nation, Environmental Working Group

The data gathered by the Environmental Working Group indicated that from 1999 to 2017, the asbestos-related death rate in Illinois was 5.0 per 100,000 population, slightly higher than the nationwide average of 4.9 in the same timeframe. However, according to recent data from Asbestos.com, the asbestos-related death rate in Illinois has increased to 7 per 100,000 population.

This alarming increase in the rate of asbestos-related deaths stresses the severity of asbestos exposure in Illinois, the urgency of addressing potential asbestos incidents like the Taylorville Kroger store mishandling case, and the role of law firms like Tomczak Law Group in seeking justice for the victims.

Note: The information is subject to change as the latest data available at the time of writing was up to 2017. Please refer to the most recent data for updated information from KCIC.

Importance of Timely Action

However, the statutes of limitations in Illinois limit the time frame for filing a claim to two years from the date of mesothelioma diagnosis or death. It is therefore essential for patients and family members to promptly consult an experienced asbestos attorney in Illinois to ensure their case is filed within the appropriate timeline.

Case Study: Asbestos Mishandling at Taylorville Kroger

Understanding the severity of asbestos exposure and the legal implications requires examining real-life cases. In August 2022, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul sued The Kroger Co. and SSI Services for their alleged failure to safely remove all asbestos-containing materials from a Kroger grocery store in Taylorville, Illinois.

- To read the text version of the report click here: Asbestos mishandled at Taylorville Kroger, AG claims

The Charges and Implications

The lawsuit alleged that asbestos-containing materials were left in publicly accessible areas during store hours, posing a significant threat to public health. Kroger and SSI Services were also accused of failing to ensure that asbestos materials remained wet until safely contained and disposed of. The Taylorville Kroger case illustrates the potential hazards of asbestos exposure in public spaces and the vital role of legal intervention in protecting public safety and holding those responsible accountable.

The Tomczak Law Group: Your Dedicated Asbestos Attorneys in Illinois

At the Tomczak Law Group, our team of skilled asbestos attorneys is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation to victims of asbestos exposure. We're committed to securing the justice and compensation our clients deserve.

Our Approach to Asbestos Cases

1. Comprehensive Investigation: Our attorneys conduct exhaustive investigations to identify the source of your asbestos exposure and the parties responsible for your illness.

2. Rigorous Evidence Collection: We gather crucial medical records, employment history, and other relevant evidence to establish a strong case on your behalf.

3. Expert Consultation: Our team collaborates with medical experts to understand the full extent of your illness and its direct connection to asbestos exposure.

4. Skilled Negotiation and Litigation: Our attorneys negotiate tirelessly with the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure. If necessary, we're prepared to take your case to court to secure the maximum compensation you're entitled to.

5. Compassionate Representation: We understand the emotional and physical toll asbestos-related diseases can have on victims and their families. We provide empathetic, personalized legal representation, keeping your needs and best interests at the forefront.

Need Assistance? Contact the Tomczak Law Group Today

If you or a loved one is suffering from an asbestos-related disease, don't hesitate to reach out to us at the Tomczak Law Group.

We're ready to provide the legal support you need during this challenging time. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Let us guide you on your journey to justice. You can send us a message or give us a call at 815-723-4400. We're here to assist you!


Special thanks to the valuable information provided by
Joe Lahav, Esquire, Walter Pacheco, and Daniel Wasserberg from Asbestos.com

Footnotes

  1. Lahav, J., Pacheco, W., & Wasserberg, D. (n.d.). Illinois Mesothelioma Lawyers. Asbestos.com.
  2. WICS/WRSP Staff. (2022, August 15). Asbestos mishandled at Taylorville Kroger, AG claims. News Channel 20.
  3. Asbestos-Related Deaths in Illinois." Asbestos Nation, Environmental Working Group, Accessed on July 7, 2023.
  4. Asbestos-Related Death Rates in Illinois." Asbestos Nation, Environmental Working Group,  Accessed on July 7, 2023.
  5. Asbestos Litigation: 2021 Year in Review." KCIC, 2021

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Legal Insights: Top 3 FAQs Explained

We understand that legal concerns can be complex and overwhelming. To help you navigate through these challenges, we've compiled an extensive list of Frequently Asked Questions addressing a range of legal issues. In this blog post, we're shining a spotlight on three crucial questions, carefully selected from our FAQ list, that often arise in the realm of law.

Remember, we also offer a complimentary consultation for you to voice any additional questions or concerns you may have. You're not alone in this journey - our expertise is at your disposal. Together, we can navigate the path to understanding and justice.

Why is asbestos bad?

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Asbestos is harmful because when its fibers are inhaled, they can embed in the lungs and potentially lead to serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Can asbestos harm you?

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Yes, prolonged and heavy exposure to asbestos can cause a range of health problems, from non-malignant conditions like asbestosis to cancers

How does Tomczak Law Group handle asbestos cases in Illinois?

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Tomczak Law Group thoroughly investigates each case, identifies the source of asbestos exposure, builds a strong case, represents clients in court, and fights for the maximum compensation possible

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