• Experience bringing cases against employers like Harland & Wolff, DuPont, Courtaulds & more.
• Thorough medical assessments to maximise your compensation.
• Clear updates at each stage of your pleural thickening claim.
• Efficient claims process to secure compensation quickly.
• Free initial consultation to assess your case.

Pleural thickening, also known as Diffuse Pleural Thickening (DPT), occurs when the pleura—the protective membrane that wraps around the lungs—gets thicker. This condition can affect just one lung or both. When this thickening happens, it can lead to discomfort in the chest and make breathing difficult, as the lungs struggle to expand properly.

The seriousness of pleural thickening lies in its potential to severely impair lung function, leading to decreased oxygen intake and overall respiratory health.

Not only does it affect quality of life, it also indicates exposure to harmful substances like asbestos.

Pleural thickening is a progressive disease that often starts without symptoms, making it hard to detect early on. It can take between 20-30 years for symptoms to appear after the initial exposure to asbestos.

As time goes on, breathing can become increasingly difficult as the pleura thickens and the following symptoms can occur:

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Persistent cough
• Chest pain or tightness
• Reduced ability to exercise
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Discomfort when breathing deeply
• Shoulder pain

Asbestos exposure is a primary cause of pleural thickening. Tiny asbestos fibres can settle in the lungs when inhaled, leading to inflammation and scarring over time (also known as pleural plaques). This scarring can eventually cause the pleura to thicken, affecting lung function and leading to the symptoms listed above.

Asbestos exposure can occur in different scenarios or settings, four of the most common are:

• Workplace Exposure: Occupations such as construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing can involve direct contact with asbestos-containing materials.
• Home Renovations: Older homes may contain asbestos in insulation, roofing, tiles, and other building materials, posing a risk during renovations or repairs.
• Secondary Exposure: Family members of those who work with asbestos can be exposed to fibres brought home on clothing, tools, or in the hair of workers.
• Public Buildings: Schools, hospitals, and other older buildings may contain asbestos, potentially exposing occupants if the material is disturbed.

Anyone diagnosed with pleural thickening who has been exposed to asbestos, whether directly in the workplace, through home renovations, or second-hand from a family member’s work clothing, may be eligible to claim compensation.

Employers have a duty of care to protect their employees from harmful asbestos exposure, and failure to do so can lead to claims for negligence, particularly if it results in a condition like pleural thickening.

Similarly, responsibilities extend to those managing properties or construction sites where asbestos is present, ensuring that individuals are not unwittingly exposed to this hazardous material.

Our solicitors make the pleural thickening compensation claim process straightforward and hassle-free, handling every step of your claim with dedicated expertise. You can expect the following steps when claimings pleural thickening compensation with us:

Step 1: Contact Reid Black
The process begins with a free initial consultation with our specialist solicitors. During this consultation we’ll discuss your history of asbestos exposure and the specifics of your pleural thickening diagnosis.

Step 2: Gathering Information
Once we confirm you have a case for pleural thickening compensation, we’ll start compiling important information to establish the link between your condition and your asbestos exposure.

Step 3: Medical Assessment
Our team will then refer you for a specialist medical examination to assess the severity of your pleural thickening. This will act as a key piece of evidence to support your claim.

Step 4: Compensation Negotiations
With a strong case built on detailed evidence, our solicitors will then enter into negotiations on your behalf and advocate for your best interests.

Step 5: Compensation Payout
After a fair settlement is agreed, we’ll ensure you receive your pleural thickening compensation payout as soon as possible.

Pleural thickening compensation can provide financial support to cover the costs associated with your condition, while also acknowledging the pain and suffering you’ve endured.

Compensation for pleural thickening is awarded based on individual circumstances, with each claim assessed on its own merits. Compensation will be awarded under “general damages” and “special damages”.

• General damages cover the impact of the disease itself, such as physical discomfort and lifestyle changes.
• Special damages compensate for direct financial impacts, like medical treatment costs, travel expenses to medical appointments, lost earnings, and the cost of care or home adaptations.

In Northern Ireland, when making a claim for pleural thickening, you could expect to receive between £30,000 and £62,500 for general damages. It’s important to note that this figure only accounts for the pain, suffering, and loss of amenity associated with the condition. The total compensation, including special damages for financial losses and expenses, is likely to be higher, reflecting the full extent of the impact on your life and finances.

The dangers of asbestos started to become known in the early 1990s, right around the time our law practice was founded. Our solicitors therefore know the extreme impact asbestos has had on the lives of those in Northern Ireland, and are passionate about helping those who suffer from associated conditions like pleural thickening. By choosing our team, you’ll receive unwavering and genuine support throughout the entire claim process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact us today and take the first step towards your pleural thickening compensation. During your complimentary consultation we’ll provide transparent advice so you’re fully informed before starting your claim journey.