Coal Worker Pneumoconiosis Lawyers in Pittsburgh, PA

Pneumoconiosis, also known as black lung, is a respiratory condition caused by exposure to harmful dusts in the workplace, such as asbestos, coal dust, or silica dust. When the dust gets stuck to the lung walls, the lungs try to remove the dust particles. This can cause scar tissue to develop, decreasing the lung's capacity over time. The condition is called black lung because the lungs develop dark spots, making the lungs look black. Pneumoconiosis is also known as coal miner's pneumoconiosis, coal miner's lung, coal miner's disease, welder's lung, and miner's lung.

Black lung is a condition that can affect your ability to work, causing you to depend on workers' compensation. Relying on work comp can make you anxious, worrying about how you will take care of yourself while also paying for daily expenses and medical bills. At Edgar Snyder & Associates, our experienced team of Pittsburgh workers' compensation lawyers are here for you. We'll take care of the legal work, so you can get back to focusing on your health.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pneumoconiosis?

The signs and symptoms of Pneumoconiosis include either a wet or dry cough, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. If you have a history of working around hazardous dusts and experience these symptoms, contact your medical provider to discuss your next steps.

If you were diagnosed with black lung, you may be eligible for worker's compensation. You deserve to have a strong legal team on your side, and that's where Edgar Snyder & Associates comes in. With over years of experience, we're not afraid to fight for your right to the compensation you deserve.

How Long Does It Take for Black Lung to Develop?

Traditionally, black lung can take as long as 10-20 years to develop. Since it is unnoticeable early on, many individuals aren't diagnosed with black lung or coal miner's lung until after retirement. Recently, newer mining techniques have led to more rapid developments of black lung due to a higher amount of dust in the workplace. Smoking and improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a respirator can speed the development of the illness as well.

With workers' compensation, the statutes of limitations start as soon as you are diagnosed. While it can be scary to determine your next steps, our lawyers have an extensive knowledge of workers' compensation rights, and we're here to help you every step of the way.

What is the Federal Black Lung Program?

The Federal Black Lung Program, also known as the Black Lung Benefits Act, gives money and medical benefits to individuals who can no longer work due to black lung. The program also provides benefits for families who have a lost a loved one due to coal miner's lung. Workers who have been exposed to hazardous workplace dusts may apply for monthly benefits. Individuals may also receive coverage for medical screening and other medical expenses.

Eligibility can vary, but the team at Edgar Snyder & Associates will review your case for free.

Who Pays Black Lung Benefits?

Black Lung benefits may be paid for by either the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund or the affected individual's last mining employer. Compensation packages may vary. It can be difficult to focus on your health if you're worried about money and medical expenses, which is why we recommend contacting our law firm. At Edgar Snyder & Associates, we will make sure responsible parties pay their fair share, so you can focus on what's important. Remember, there's never a fee unless we win your case.

Who is Eligible for Black Lung Benefits?

Individuals who have been disabled due to black lung or coal miner's lung may be eligible for benefits. Survivors and dependents of an individual whose death was quickened or caused by coal miner's lung may also be eligible for benefits. Benefits can include monthly payments to the individual or dependents as well as medical coverage. Some miners may also be eligible for treatment for other lung illnesses that were caused by black lung. A qualified work comp attorney can explain all benefits that apply to your situation.

What is the Average Black Lung Settlement?

The average black lung settlement varies from person to person. Settlement amounts are dependent upon the affected individual's medical history, work compensation, number of dependents, as well as other factors. Speak with a qualified attorney to see how much your case is worth. Call us for a free consultation at 412-618-1472.

Contact Us with Your Black Lung Questions

If your employer or insurance company denies or modifies your claim to compensation, it can leave you feeling angry or even worried about the future. At Edgar Snyder & Associates, our award winning legal team wants to make sure you receive the answers, compensation, and peace of mind you deserve. We want to be in your corner, helping you and many other hardworking Pennsylvanians receive the benefits you deserve. Contact Edgar Snyder & Associates today at 412-618-1472.

And remember, there's never a fee unless we get money for you.

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