Boost to Mesothelioma Sufferers’ Compensation
New compensation rules are now in place that will enable asbestos-related cancer sufferers to receive up to £54,000. Under new rules for the Government’s Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme, compensation will rise to match 100% of average civil claims, up from the current 80% – which could mean an increase of up to £54,000 a person. Diffuse mesothelioma […]
Compensation for Victims of Asbestos Related Cancer
More than £15 million has been paid out so far in the first seven months of a new compensation scheme for victims of diffuse mesothelioma. However, the Department for Work and Pensions says there are hundreds more victims who may be eligible for compensation and is calling for them to come forward, estimating that £32 million could be […]
Significant Increase in Damages Awarded by Court of Session in Fatal Asbestos Claims
Two recent cases have marked a distinct increase in the amount of compensatory damages awarded in fatal cases. Both cases concerned section 4(3)(b) of the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011, which allows family members to claim damages for distress and anxiety, grief and sorrow, and loss of society and guidance following the death of their loved one. […]
Epidemic? Asbestos Still A Serious Problem in Scotland
Scotland has a long, proud industrial history: our shipyards, coal mines and steel works have shaped our nation’s economy and society over the years. Unfortunately for the people of Scotland, much of that industry has gone and left behind a legacy of asbestos-related disease. Even more unfortunate is that the most common asbestos-related disease, mesothelioma, is […]
Mesothelioma Claims: Scottish Courts Take Different Approach Towards Fatal Awards
In the recent case of Joseph McCarn and Others v The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills [2014] CSOH 121, the Court of Session has provided guidance on fatal awards in Scotland. The children of the late Mr McCarn, who died in 2009, aged 69, from mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure during the course of his employment […]
Compensation awarded for asbestos exposure
A woman who contracted mesothelioma after washing her husband’s asbestos-contaminated clothing has been awarded £700,000 in damages, reports the Evening Standard. Ronald Haxton died in 2009 from mesothelioma that he contracted as a result of exposure to asbestos dust during his job dismantling old boilers. His wife, Monica, used to hand-wash his overalls that were covered with the […]
