Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis
Coal mining is the backbone of West Virginia’s economy. Our state’s thousands of coal miners work hard to make sure the nation’s energy demands are met, but coal mining carries serious risks. Coal dust inhalation is a major source of illness for miners, leading to a wide array of serious lung conditions. It doesn’t take long to feel the impact of thousands of dollars in medical bills and time lost. You don’t have to sit idly by as the bills pile up – you can take action now to seek compensation for your suffering.
Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis is a serious medical condition caused by prolonged exposure to coal dust. The symptoms are similar to other occupational dust inhalation conditions, such as silicosis, but also bear a resemblance to conditions associated with cigarette smoking. As workers inhale the dust, it becomes lodged in the lungs, where it cannot be moved. As the dust particles sit there, they can damage the lung’s internal structures. Over time the damage can result in major loss of lung function.
It is estimated that around 17% of non-smoking coal workers will experience serious lung disease as a result of dust exposure. For coal workers who choose to smoke, the dust can make the effects of smoking even worse. People with pneumoconiosis may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, weight loss, and chest pain as the lungs sustain more and more damage. Over time, some workers even need assisted breathing devices.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love suffers from pneumoconiosis or another serious lung condition as a result of prolonged coal dust inhalation, you may be eligible for compensation for your medical bills and suffering. To learn how you can seek relief from your medical bills and hold your employer accountable for your suffering, contact experienced Clarksburg personal injury lawyer David W. Frame today at 800-352-9460.