The verdict was levied against Exxon Mobil which was deemed liable for $12 million in compensatory damages, $12.5 million in punitive damages, and close to half a million in medical bills, according to the Virginian-Pilot.
The plaintiff in this mesothelioma cancer case was a 72-year-old man named Rubert Minton. He was a repair supervisor on commercial vessels at the Newport News Shipbuilding for over 10 years. During his time at the shipyard, Mr. Minton worked on 17 Exxon oil tankers that were undergoing repairs.
Medical experts testified that Minton’s mesothelioma was likely due to asbestos exposure while working on these oil tankers. Asbestos was used for insulation, gaskets, seals and pumps on many oil tankers. Workers breathe in toxic asbestos fibers, which can lead to the development of mesothelioma, an incurable form of cancer.
It can still be found today in many older structures, posing health hazards, particularly during renovation and demolition projects, when any disturbance of asbestos can cause the material to escape into the air. Once airborne, asbestos particles are at their most dangerous, as they can easily be inhaled and lodge in the lungs.
Our firm is pleased that a mesothelioma cancer victim was able to receive just compensation for the pain and suffering that they have undoubtedly suffered due to the diagnosis. We have handled numerous mesothelioma cancer cases stemming from asbestos exposure and we fully appreciate how challenging these cases can be since they are routinely litigated against big corporations who will do almost anything to deny former workers fair compensation in mesothelioma claims.
Congrats to attorney Bobby Hatten for securing this Newport News, VA jury verdict.
PA