A jury in South Carolina awarded the family of a woman who died of mesothelioma $32M after secondhand exposure to asbestos. 

The family of Mrs. Weist claimed she developed mesothelioma because her husband, father and uncle all worked at places where asbestos was heavily present. The toxic fibers would settle into their clothing and Mrs. Weist would be exposed every time she did the laundry. 

She would inhale and ingest these tiny asbestos fibers not knowing the damage it would cause to her health years later. Unfortunately, Mrs. Weist succumbed to her mesothelioma and passed away at the age of 62. 

In response to his wife’s death, Mr. Weist sued both companies he worked for: Kraft Heinz and Metal Master’s Inc. Both defendants argued that the work site Mr. Weist attended daily could not be proven to be the cause of Mrs. Weist’s mesothelioma. 

After a short 4 day trial, the family was awarded $32 million by the jury. Specifically, $22 million in compensatory damages against both defendants and an additional $10 million in punitive damages against Kraft Heinz alone.  

According to the family’s attorney, “The jury found the Kraft Heinz Co. and Metal Masters, Inc. were both negligent and proximate causes of Mrs. Weist’s mesothelioma diagnosis and resulting damages.”

“The jury also found the Kraft Heinz Co. to be vicariously liable for the negligent acts of employees, contractors and agents, which includes Metal Masters Inc. for allowing workers to demolish and install asbestos-containing thermal insulation and gasket materials.”

If you have developed mesothelioma after secondhand exposure to asbestos, our attorneys are ready to fight your case. At BCBH law, we have helped patients and their families recover the compensation that is owed to them. Contact one of our experienced lawyers today to see how we can help you receive the justice you deserve.