Black Lung Lawsuits Are On The Rise in Birmingham, Alabama

If you have been diagnosed with Black Lung Disease you’ll need a law firm that understands the complex litigation requirements of your matter. Attorney Joseph Ingram in Birmingham, Alabama takes a personal approach to each case. His experience and dedication are keys to the success of your pursuit of justice.

Black lung disease, formally known as pneumoconiosis, is still a surprisingly common problem for America’s miners. Black lung was a significant problem several decades ago, but then the cases decreased under the heavy regulation of the mining industry. In the past decade, however, cases have again increased – for reasons that experts in the field still do not understand.

Coal miners and others employed in the mining industry who suffer from black lung and other lung ailments may be entitled to compensation, under workers’ compensation and other civil laws. Miners have recovered for their medical expenses, lost wages and decreased earning potential, and pain and suffering. Surviving spouses and children of miners who pass away from black lung disease may also be entitled to compensation and even monthly benefits.

Miners can suffer lung ailments as a result of coal dust – but many other substances can also be to blame. Miners have reported lung disease caused by quartz dust, silica, and even hazardous substances used in the mining process. For example, occupational lung disease often strikes those involved in sandblasting, drilling into sandstone, and other types of stone harvesting.

Each type of lung ailment, from black lung to silicosis and occupational lung disease, comes with its own set of legal rules and potential legal remedies. Our attorneys in Birmingham, Alabama understand the full range of lung diseases and the unique personal, medical, and legal challenges of each.

When a miner suffers from black lung disease, he or she is subject to the rules of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, as amended. This law provides for compensation – but also sets up a rigorous and complicated set of administrative legal procedures with which a victim must comply to obtain that compensation. The mining companies fight aggressively at each step of the process to deny the claims of black lung victims.

Our experienced black lung attorneys Birmingham, Alabama know how to navigate the recovery process to obtain the best possible result for victims of black lung and other mining-related lung diseases. We have established relationships with expert pulmonologists who work exclusively for victims - not mining companies – and thus have the independence necessary to truly help our clients.

If you have been diagnosed with black lung disease it is important to find out what your legal options are. Talking to an experienced attorney as soon as possible can help you to preserve your legal rights. Call our law firm to get answers and some peace of mind for yourself and your family.