Family of mesothelioma victim awarded damages

Family of mesothelioma victim awarded damages
Family of mesothelioma victim awarded damages

Wednesday, June 16th, 2010

The family of an Englishman who died as a result of asbestos exposure received £120,000 in damages from the man’s former employer.
Railroad Worker Exposed to Asbestos

Raymond Neale worked for British Rail from 1947 to 1952 as a polisher, according to the Swindon Advertiser. It was there that Neale was exposed to the asbestos that eventually caused him to contract mesothelioma, which ultimately killed him.

In the area that Neale worked in, blue asbestos was sprayed on railroad coaches.

The damages were awarded for the pain and suffering that Neale endured and for the funeral and nursing costs that were incurred by his wife.
Dangers of Asbestos Were Unknown

“People were simply unaware of the dangers of asbestos,” the lawyer for Neale’s family told the news source. “There was no protective clothing and workers used to make footballs from asbestos and even birthday cakes.”

The attorney, who has dealt with British Rail in court before, noted that the company had initially defended itself against asbestos lawsuits but had recently changed its stance.

“It is now much easier because British Rail tend to accept liability and are aware there is no defense,” she said.

The World Health Organization estimates that 90,000 people die from asbestos exposure every year.
« Veteran with mesothelioma wins $4.5 million jury award
Hotel renovation halted for asbestos survey »


Family of mesothelioma victim awarded damages