South Carolina Mesothelioma Attorney

Mesothelioma attorney David L. Hood manages claims for clients throughout South Carolina. Drawing on more than 30 years of personal injury and workers’ compensation background, we and co-counsel fight to get you what you deserve.

Skilled Mesothelioma Attorney in South Carolina

Skilled rep for victims of asbestos exposure

If you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma (meso), the future can look pretty bleak. Often little can be done to treat the disease, which is relentless and merciless. However, you may be able to obtain compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

While money cannot restore your health, it can relieve your financial hardship and provide some small measure of justice. Let the Law Offices of David L. Hood fight for you!

Table of Contents

What is mesothelioma?

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the mesothelium (membrane lining the lungs, stomach, heart and testes). Meso can take decades to develop, but once diagnosed, it spreads quickly and is often fatal.

Mesothelioma causes

The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to high levels of asbestos for short periods, or exposure to low levels of asbestos long-term.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a toxic naturally occurring mineral made up of tiny sharp fibers. For most of the 20^th century, it was used in insulation, roofing, flooring, and even household products. Asbestos was valued for its heat resistance and durability

What does asbestos look like?

Asbestos comes in many different shapes, sizes and finishes. The fibers are generally too small to see with the naked eye, but usually appear as blue, brown, green or white fibers under a microscope.

Where is asbestos found?

While its use has declined, asbestos can still be found in many places, putting workers and the public at risk. Knowing where asbestos might be present can help prevent exposure leading to related health problems.

Homes and buildings

Many older homes and buildings, especially those built before the 1980s, contain asbestos in:

• Insulation – Used in attics, walls, and around pipes to help regulate temperature.
• Roofing and siding – Shingles and exterior panels may have asbestos.
• Flooring – Vinyl tiles and adhesives sometimes contain asbestos.
• Ceilings and Walls – Popcorn ceilings and textured paints may contain asbestos.

Schools and public buildings

Before the 1980s, asbestos was often used in schools, offices, and government buildings. It can be found in:

• Ceiling tiles
• Boiler and pipe insulation
• Old heating systems
• Cement walls and flooring

If left undisturbed, asbestos in homes, schools and public buildings is generally safe if undisturbed. However, renovations, repairs, or damage can release harmful fibers into the air.

Asbestos in workplace

Workers exposed to asbestos may face serious health risks, including mesothelioma. If you work in an environment where asbestos is present, it is important to understand the dangers and your legal rights.

Automobiles and equipment

Asbestos was commonly used in vehicles and heavy equipment. Some parts that may contain asbestos include:

• Brake pads and linings
• Clutch components
• Gaskets and seals

Those who repair brakes, clutches, and engines may inhale asbestos dust when working on older vehicles. Auto mechanics and military personnel should be cautious and take protective measures.

Asbestos in construction and asbestos industries

Workers in certain industries are at higher risk for asbestos exposure. It can still be found in:

• Factories – Older machinery, pipes, and insulation materials may contain asbestos.
• Shipyards – Asbestos was widely used in shipbuilding, especially in insulation.
• Power plants – Boilers, pipes, and electrical components may contain asbestos.
• Mines – Some natural deposits of asbestos are found in the earth, exposing miners to the material.

Employer regulations in South Carolina

For workers who may be exposed to asbestos, employers are required to follow strict safety guidelines, including protective gear and proper ventilation. If these protections are not in place, workers may have legal options to seek compensation for asbestos-related illnesses.

If you have been exposed to asbestos, contact our mesothelioma co-counsel legal team and attorney David Hood now!

Has asbestos been banned in South Carolina?

Many people assume asbestos has been completely banned in the United States, but that is not the case. So, the answer to whether asbestos has been banned in South Carolina is complicated:

Federal vs. State laws on asbestos

Asbestos regulations in the U.S. are mainly controlled at the federal level. While some products containing asbestos have been banned, asbestos itself is not entirely illegal. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have strict regulations on how asbestos can be used, handled, and removed. However, these regulations do not completely ban the material.

Federal law:

• EPA, 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M (national emission standards and renovation/demolition requirements for asbestos). In March of 2024, the EPA announced a ban of ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos to protect people from Meso.
• OSHA, §1926.1101 (federal safety and health regulations regarding asbestos in the workplace)

South Carolina follows federal laws on asbestos but has additional state regulations to protect workers and the public. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) enforces rules on asbestos removal and disposal, ensuring safety in buildings where asbestos is present.

State law:

• South Carolina Code, §44-87-10 et seq. (asbestos licensing, delegation of authority, penalties)
• South Carolina Code, §44-135-10 et seq. (procedure for asbestos claims)

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood now. Our attorney and mesothelioma co-counsel will fight for you!

Why is asbestos dangerous?

Asbestos risks

Asbestos is known to cause serious health problems, including mesothelioma. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, stomach, heart or testes and stay there for decades. Over time, these fibers cause inflammation and scarring, leading to cancerous tumors.

Although there are now strict regulations on the use of asbestos, it can still become a health hazard. In buildings where asbestos was used, asbestos-contained materials can crumble, fall apart, or be damaged or ripped. This causes the fibers to be released into the air, where they may stay suspended for long periods of time and be inhaled or ingested.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with meso, understanding the connection to asbestos exposure is important. Call attorney David Hood and his mesothelioma co-counsel legal team for a free initial consultation today! We can help you navigate the process to get the compensation you deserve.

Is mesothelioma contagious?

Because it is a serious disease, many people wonder whether it can spread from person to person. The short answer is no—mesothelioma is not contagious. You cannot catch it like a cold, flu, or other infectious diseases.

While meso does not spread from person to person, exposure to asbestos can put multiple people at risk through secondary exposure.

Asbestos secondary exposure

Many people don’t realize they can be affected by asbestos even if they never worked directly with the dangerous material. This is known as secondary exposure. It happens when someone is exposed to asbestos fibers that were brought home on a worker’s clothing, skin, or hair. Over time, this exposure can lead to serious health problems, including mesothelioma.

Workers in jobs that handle asbestos-containing materials, get tiny fibers of asbestos stuck on their clothing, shoes, and even in their hair. When they go home, these fibers can spread to family members through:

• Washing contaminated work clothes
• Hugging or close contact with the worker
• Sitting on furniture or carpets where asbestos fibers settle

Even small amounts of asbestos exposure over time can be dangerous. Secondary exposure can also cause mesothelioma.

Once again, meso may take decades to develop, meaning someone exposed as a child may not see symptoms until adulthood.

Because patients with secondhand exposure might not even realize they were around asbestos, doctors have a harder time making the right diagnosis.

Non-occupational exposure may explain about 20% of the mesothelioma cases in industrialized countries.

What to do if you come across asbestos:

If you believe you have found asbestos in your home or workplace, do not disturb it. Asbestos fibers are most dangerous when they become airborne. Instead, contact a certified asbestos professional to inspect and, if necessary, safely remove the material.

In SC, you can find information for certified asbestos contractors and consultants at South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.

Malignant mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma symptoms often do not appear until many years after exposure. Because these symptoms can mimic other illnesses, meso is often diagnosed at a late stage, making treatment more difficult.

Early symptoms

In the early stages, mesothelioma symptoms may be mild and easy to overlook. Many people mistake them for common illnesses, like the flu or a cold. Early signs can include:

• Persistent cough – A long-lasting cough that doesn’t go away.
• Shortness of breath – Feeling out of breath even with light activity.
• Fatigue – Unusual tiredness or lack of energy.
• Chest or abdominal pain – A dull ache or discomfort in the chest or belly area.

Advanced symptoms

As the disease progresses, symptoms often become more severe. The signs depend on the type of mesothelioma a person has. The most common types are pleural (lungs) and peritoneal (abdomen) mesothelioma.

Pleural mesothelioma (lungs)

• Severe chest pain – Pain that worsens with deep breaths.
• Difficulty swallowing – Trouble eating or drinking.
• Hoarseness – Changes in the voice or a raspy tone.
• Unexplained weight loss – Losing weight without trying.
• Fluid buildup – Swelling in the chest due to fluid pressing on the lungs.

Peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen)

• Stomach pain – Constant discomfort or bloating.
• Nausea or vomiting – Frequent stomach upset.
• Loss of appetite – Not feeling hungry or avoiding food.
• Swelling in the abdomen – Fluid buildup causing a bloated belly.

It’s important to see a doctor right away if you have these symptoms. Then, contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood so we can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Mesothelioma diagnosis

Diagnosing mesothelioma is much like diagnosing any other disease. Doctors will start with questions about symptoms and past history (including work history). Then they will do a physical exam. Depending on results from questions and physical, any of the following could be next:

Imaging tests

Imaging tests help doctors see inside the body and check for abnormal growths or fluid buildup. The most common imaging tests include:

• X-rays: These can show fluid buildup or thickening in the lung lining.
• CT scans (Computed Tomography): A more detailed scan that provides a clearer picture of tumors.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Helps determine how far the cancer has spread.
• PET scans (Positron Emission Tomography): Used to detect cancerous cells throughout the body.
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart can show any fluid build-up in the heart.

Biopsy

A biopsy is the only way to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis. During this procedure, a doctor removes a small piece of tissue from the affected area and examines it under a microscope.

Different types of biopsies include:

• Needle biopsy: A thin needle is used to remove tissue or fluid for testing.
• Thoracoscopy or laparoscopy: A small camera is inserted into the body to collect a sample.
• Surgical biopsy: In some cases, a surgeon may need to remove a larger sample to confirm the diagnosis.

Those who were exposed on the job may face delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis as well. But there’s a good chance doctors will come to the correct conclusion when discussing the patient’s work history.

Why early diagnosis matters

Catching mesothelioma early can make a big difference in treatment options. Since this cancer is aggressive, the sooner it is diagnosed, the better the chances of managing symptoms and improving quality of life. If you have ever worked around asbestos, regular health checkups and screenings can help detect mesothelioma in its early stages.

Treatment for mesothelioma

Common treatment options

Doctors use different methods to treat mesothelioma. Some people may receive one type of treatment, while others may need a combination.

• Surgery: Surgery can remove tumors and help relieve symptoms. Doctors may remove part of the lung, the lining around the lungs, or other affected areas. Surgery works best for patients diagnosed in the early stages of meso.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses strong medicine to kill cancer cells. It can help shrink tumors, slow down the disease, and relieve pain. Some people receive chemotherapy before surgery to make the tumor smaller or after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It is often used to relieve symptoms, especially pain and breathing problems. Radiation may also help after surgery to prevent cancer from coming back.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system fight cancer. These treatments have shown promise in slowing mesothelioma’s growth. Doctors may use it along with chemotherapy for better results. In fact, in September of 2024, the FDA approved pembrolizumab with chemotherapy as a first line treatment for unresectable, advanced, or metastatic malignant pleural mesothelioma.
• Clinical Trials: Some patients choose to participate in clinical trials. These studies test new treatments that may not be widely available yet. Clinical trials offer hope for patients looking for the latest advancements in mesothelioma care.

Palliative care for comfort

Since mesothelioma is a serious disease, many treatments focus on comfort and symptom relief. This is called palliative care. Doctors may prescribe pain medicine, breathing treatments, and other therapies to improve a patient’s quality of life.

Each patient’s mesothelioma journey is different. The best treatment plan depends on several factors, including cancer stage, overall health, and personal preferences. Talking to a doctor who specializes in meso is the best way to explore all available options.

Legal rights for mesothelioma victims

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation. Many companies knowingly exposed workers to asbestos without warning them of the dangers. Lawsuits and asbestos trust funds exist to help victims and their families recover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Call your mesothelioma attorney David Hood right away so he and his co-counsel legal team  can get to work for you!

Mesothelioma attorney cases in South Carolina

Due to its industrial history, South Carolina has a higher rate of mesothelioma than the national average, particularly in coastal counties. Asbestos-related deaths in Charleston are higher than state, and national averages because of the shipyard.

Asbestos exposure in South Carolina was common in a number of industries during the 20th century:

• Shipbuilding — From the mid-1930s onward, asbestos was used heavily.
• Energy — Power plants used it to insulate in many machine parts.
• Military — Many military uses, from insulation on naval ships to brake pads.
• Paper — Paper mills used it in the production of many home and office products.

South Carolina workers who develop meso may have a case against their old employers. They may be able to recover funds even if the old employer has gone out of business.

What compensation is available for mesothelioma victims and their families?

Victims of meso can seek compensation in several ways, including personal injury lawsuits, wrongful death claims, and asbestos trust funds.

Personal Injury Lawsuits

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you can file a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure. These companies may have known about the dangers of asbestos but failed to warn workers. A personal injury lawsuit can help you recover money for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Travel costs for treatment

Types of compensation for personal injury cases:

• Economic damages
• Noneconomic damages
• Punitive damages

Workers’ Compensation

If you were exposed to asbestos on the job, you may be able to get workers’ compensation. This type of claim can help cover medical bills and lost wages, but it usually does not include pain and suffering.

Asbestos Trust Funds

Many companies that used asbestos have gone bankrupt. However, they were required to set up trust funds to pay victims. Even if a company is out of business, you may still be able to get money from these funds. An experienced attorney can help you file a claim.

Wrongful Death Claims

If someone passes away from meso, their family can file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of lawsuit can provide compensation for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income from the deceased
• Medical expenses before death
• Loss of companionship and emotional suffering

• Loss of parental guidance
• Loss of support

Contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood for a free consultation, so we can guide you through the process, help gather evidence, and represent you in court with our co-counsel legal team, if necessary.

How do you prove mesothelioma?

Proving your mesothelioma case is key to receiving compensation. But, this requires strong evidence. Here’s what you need to know.

Medical diagnosis: To prove meso in court, you must have a confirmed medical diagnosis. Medical records showing the diagnosis and its link to asbestos exposure are critical pieces of evidence.

Proof of asbestos exposure: You must show that you were exposed to asbestos, which is the only known cause of mesothelioma. This may include:

• Work history records, such as employment documents or union membership records.
• Witness statements from coworkers or family members who can confirm your exposure.
• Evidence of asbestos in products or materials you worked with.

Link between exposure and diagnosis: It is not enough to prove that you were exposed to asbestos. You should also show that this exposure led to your meso. Expert testimony from medical professionals and scientists can help establish this connection.

Legal documentation: To strengthen your case, your attorney will collect important legal documents, including:

• Medical records and bills
• Employment history
• Military service records (if exposed while serving)
• Product identification records showing asbestos exposure

A meso lawsuit can be complex. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you navigate this process and fight for the justice you deserve.

With the right evidence, legal representation, and timely action, you can hold companies accountable for your illness.

Filing within the statute of limitations: Each state has a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. In South Carolina, for example, you typically need to file within three years of diagnosis. If filing on behalf of a deceased loved one, the deadline may be different. Contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood today to find out what action you need to take to protect yourself !

The legal basis for meso liability

Although the dangers associated with asbestos were well known, industrial leaders suppressed info about workers getting mesothelioma. This disregard for worker safety was the basis for many meso lawsuits that rocked industry in the 1970s and 1980s. This ended up forcing many companies to go bankrupt. However, the courts made these firms create trust funds to compensate workers who might later develop meso.

Today, someone who develops mesothelioma can bring an action against an existing company or the trust of the defunct company. Let us help you or your loved one identify the source of the mesothelioma exposure. Then we can file a lawsuit for you focused on the handling of asbestos at that site. Most meso claims reach a settlement without a trial, but trials are sometimes needed when a defendant refuses to accept blame. We can manage your claim in a tough, caring, aggressive way to deliver the best possible results. Contact us today!

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit may seem overwhelming, but an experienced lawyer can handle the legal process while you focus on your health. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file a meso lawsuit.

1. Find an experienced mesothelioma attorney

Contact a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases. These cases can be complex, and an experienced attorney will know how to gather evidence and fight for your rights. Call The Law Offices of David L. Hood today for your free initial consultation!

2. Gather important information

Your mesothelioma attorney will need details about your asbestos exposure, including:

• Where and when you were exposed
• The type of work you did
• Medical records confirming your meso diagnosis

If you’re unsure about your exposure history, your lawyer can help investigate.

3. Determine the type of lawsuit

• Personal injury lawsuit
• Workers’ compensation
• Wrongful death lawsuit: Filed by family members after a loved one passes away from meso.
• Asbestos trust fund claim: If the company responsible has gone bankrupt, you may still qualify for compensation from a trust fund.

Your lawyer will help you decide which type of claim is best for your situation.

4. File the lawsuit

Once all the evidence is collected, your lawyer will file the lawsuit in court.

5. Negotiate a settlement or go to trial

Most mesothelioma cases end in a settlement, meaning the company agrees to pay you without going to trial. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, your case may go to court, where a judge or jury will decide.

6. Receive compensation

If your case is successful, you may receive compensation to help cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Funeral costs (in wrongful death cases)

How mesothelioma attorney David L. Hood and his co-counsel team can help

An experienced mesothelioma attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Since meso cases have strict time limits, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible.

Seeking justice for mesothelioma

No one should suffer because of a company’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, legal action may help you secure financial support and hold responsible parties accountable. Contact mesothelioma attorney David Hood today to discuss your options and protect your rights. There’s never a fee for your initial consultation.

Contact a results-oriented mesothelioma attorney in South Carolina

The Law Offices of David L. Hood and his co-counsel legal team provide aggressive legal representation for victims who have meso. To schedule a free consult, call us at 843-491-6025. You can also contact us 24/7 by email, text or chat. If your injuries prevent you from coming to our office, we can come to you. Remember, there are deadlines, so take action to protect you and your family today!

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