Mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and certain pleural conditions typically qualify if connected directly to exposure at American Defender between 1943 and 1982. Criteria vary by trust fund.
American Defender in Richmond, California, has a documented history of using asbestos-containing materials since 1943. These include boiler and high-temp equipment insulation, fireproofing materials and sprays, joint compounds, insulating cements, adhesives and mastics, roofing and siding shingles, coatings and sealants. Employees at American Defender before 1982 may be at risk for asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Asbestos Exposure: 1943 to 1982
Location: Richmond, CA
Asbestos Trust Funds: 1
Available Trust Funds Claims: YES
For over 40 years, American Defender used asbestos in numerous materials and products. According to trust fund records, some of the known asbestos-containing products include:
Note: This list may not be comprehensive. Asbestos products used at American Defender likely varied over the years.
Occupations with a high risk of asbestos exposure at American Defender:
Note: This list is based on trust fund claim data and may not represent every high-risk position.
Asbestos was used in thousands of products: It was commonly found in building materials (like insulation, roofing, flooring, and siding), automotive parts (like brakes and clutches), and even some textiles.
CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY
Employees at American Defender, Richmond, CA were directly exposed to airborne asbestos fibers, especially between 1943 and 1982, when asbestos use peaked. These microscopic fibers, when inhaled, lodge permanently in lung tissues, causing inflammation, scarring, and severe illnesses, including:
Exposure wasn’t limited to American Defender, Richmond, CA workers alone. Employees often unknowingly carried asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair, or tools, causing secondary exposure among family members. Diseases linked to secondary exposure often manifest decades later, significantly impacting families long after initial exposure occurred.
Around 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are diagnosed annually in the U.S.
Incidence rates have stabilized after decades of growth following heavy asbestos usage periods.
CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY
Mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and certain pleural conditions typically qualify if connected directly to exposure at American Defender between 1943 and 1982. Criteria vary by trust fund.
Yes. Family members affected by secondary (take-home) asbestos exposure from workers at American Defender are eligible to file claims if diagnosed with related diseases.
Yes. You may file wrongful death claims if a family member passed away from an asbestos-related illness linked to American Defender. Specific eligibility and processes depend on state laws and trust fund guidelines. Remember, wrongful death claims have unique deadlines.
Asbestos trust fund claims offer predetermined compensation from bankrupt asbestos companies, while lawsuits target companies still operating. Lawsuits can yield higher settlements but typically take longer to resolve. Depending on your situation, you may file either or both.
Deadlines (statutes of limitations) vary by state and claim type. In California, personal injury and wrongful death claims typically have a 1-year filing period from diagnosis or death. Verify deadlines for your specific case promptly.