Failure to Warn of Asbestos Leads to $35 Million Wrongful Death Suit

Posted on September 17th, 2013

Asbestosis is a serious condition that workers in construction, shipyards and other occupations are at risk for if they are exposed to Asbestos. A form of cancer, mesothelioma, is caused solely by asbestos exposure.

Ivo John Peraica spent eight years removing asbestos. His employer failed to warn Peraica about the risks of asbestos, and Peraica eventually suffered a painful death caused by mesothelioma. Working for the Heat and Insulators union, Peraica was exposed when he removed asbestos from pumps, boilers and other HVAC equipment.

A product liability lawsuit against Crane Co. was filed by Peraica’s family and resulted in an award of $35 million.

The jury found that managerial employees within the company knew of the health risks associated with asbestos, but failed to warn lower employees about the risks. The large award of $35 million resulted mostly from the extensive pain and suffering that Peraica suffered. A testimony taken of Peraica prior to his death and evidence of his quality of life previous to the disease and after acquiring the disease had a large impact on the jury as well.

If you or a loved one has suffered from mesothelioma, it’s important to understand that this can only occur from exposure to asbestos. A personal injury attorney can help review occupation history and identify parties responsible for this painful condition.

Ray Hodge & Associates proudly represents victims and their families across the state of Kansas, including Wichita, Andover, Derby, Goddard, Haysville, Mulvane, Rose Hill, Newton, El Dorado and Hutchinson. Call today for a free consultation all over the state of Kansas. We have proudly served clients in Sedgwick, Butler, Sumner, Harvey, Kingman and Reno Counties.