Pleural plaques is an asbestos related disease caused by thickening of the pleura. Asbestos particles cling to the pleura, stimulating inflammation and immune responses which results in the formation of fibrous tissue. Pleural Plaques is the most common condition caused by exposure to asbestos and although development of pleural plaques is linked to the extent of exposure, this condition can occur even after minimal exposure to suspect materials. There is a long latency period and exposure to asbestos will usually have occurred over twenty years before pleural plaques develop. Anyone exposed to asbestos fibres in the past is at risk including construction workers, those who installed insulation, boilermakers, brake lining operatives and workers in asbestos product manufacturing factories.

Not Actionable

Pleural plaques has been compensated for over twenty years however insurers have recently challenged the availability of damages in court on the basis that the condition is symptom free. Whilst our solicitors are able to deal with other asbestos related diseases, we are no longer able to claim compensation for pleural plaques. In 2006 a Court of Appeal decision reversed the previous law and precluded those suffering from this symptom free scarring of the lungs from claiming compensation notwithstanding that they have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma and asbestosis both of which can have a fatal outcome.

Other Asbestos Related Diseases

Whilst we cannor claim compensation for pleural plaques, we are able to make an asbestos related disease claim for asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos fibres. All our compensation claims are dealt with using the no win no fee scheme and compensation is paid in full with no deductions. There is no need to fund or finance any legal case as it proceeds and there is nothing to pay out at any time. Our solicitors are all qualified as specialists and in England and Wales they are all members of the Solicitors Regulation Authority panel of personal injury experts. If you would like to speak to a specialist personal injury solicitor about claims for asbestosis, mesothelioma or asbestos related lung cancer you can either use the helpline or complete the form or just email us. If after talking to us you decide not to take matters further then you are under no obligation to do so and you will not be charged for our advice.