Time and time again in mesothelioma cases that are heard all around the country, asbestos companies create spurious arguments against their liability for victims’ exposure to asbestos. Once they stand accused of wrongdoing they push back hard, creating defenses that twist witnesses’ words and misdirect attention in hopes that judges will agree with them. All of this makes things much more challenging for those struggling with the fatal form of cancer, as well as for their surviving families who seek justice on their behalf after they are gone. One such case was recently seen in the Court of Appeals of Georgia, but Judge Markle agreed with the family and they will be able to have their day in court.
Mesothelioma Victim Testifies to Multiple Exposures to John Crane, Inc. Asbestos
The mesothelioma case against John Crane, Inc. was originally filed by John F. Davis and then switched over to his widow, Leisa Davis after his death in 2015. According to testimony, Mr. Davis had worked with asbestos-containing products manufactured by John Crane, Inc. during the years between 1984 and 1998 when he worked at a fiberboard mill.
Mr. Davis was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2015 and died later that same year, but before his death he gave a deposition indicating that he had originally been hired as a laborer, then became a boiler operator for a few years before being promoted to a maintenance supervisor. Over the years he swept up dust and debris around the mill, installed and removed asbestos-contaminated gaskets and packing material and installed fresh material in its place.
John Crane’s Motion for Summary Judgment Denied By Judge
Though Mr. Davis gave numerous points of reference supporting his assertion that the material he worked with was manufactured by John Crane, Inc., the company argued that his statements were insufficient to support his case and that the judge should dismiss the lawsuit. But the judge noted the insufficiency of this argument, indicating that “the testimony does not support John Crane’s contention that Davis’s claims are speculative” and that “John Crane misstates Davis’s testimony regarding asbestos warnings.”
Based on the decisions of the judge, the case against John Crane, Inc. will be able to continue and a jury will decide whether Mrs. Davis is due compensation for the damages she and her husband have suffered. If you need information on your own rights regarding a mesothelioma diagnosis, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
