List of Asbestos Trusts in Minnesota

Asbestos exposure has led to numerous health issues, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. To provide compensation for victims of asbestos exposure, many companies that manufactured or used asbestos have established trust funds. This article lists the major asbestos trusts available for victims in Minnesota, detailing the claims process and the compensation potential for those affected by asbestos-related illnesses.

What Are Asbestos Trusts?

Asbestos trusts are funds established by companies that have declared bankruptcy due to asbestos-related liabilities. These trusts are designed to provide compensation to individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases without the need for lengthy litigation. Each trust has specific eligibility criteria, claims processes, and compensation amounts based on the severity of the illness and other factors.

Major Asbestos Trusts in Minnesota

The following is a list of significant asbestos trusts that provide compensation to victims in Minnesota:

1. Manville Personal Injury Settlement Trust

  • Established: 1988
  • Overview: Created by the Johns-Manville Corporation, this trust compensates individuals who have suffered asbestos-related injuries due to the company’s products. It has paid billions in claims to victims over the years.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases linked to Johns-Manville products.
  • Claims Process: Claims can be filed online or through a mail-in application. Supporting documentation is required, including medical records and proof of exposure.

2. Owens Corning Fiberglas Trust

  • Established: 2006
  • Overview: Owens Corning, a major manufacturer of insulation and building materials, set up this trust to address claims from individuals exposed to asbestos in its products.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases due to exposure to Owens Corning products.
  • Claims Process: Claimants must submit a claim form along with medical documentation and evidence of exposure to Owens Corning products.

3. W.R. Grace & Co. Asbestos Trust

  • Established: 2004
  • Overview: Following its bankruptcy, W.R. Grace established this trust to compensate victims of asbestos exposure from its building materials and other products.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses due to W.R. Grace products.
  • Claims Process: Claims can be filed online or through paper applications, requiring documentation of medical diagnosis and exposure history.

4. Babcock & Wilcox Asbestos Personal Injury Settlement Trust

  • Established: 2006
  • Overview: This trust compensates individuals exposed to asbestos while using or working with Babcock & Wilcox products, primarily in the energy sector.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases linked to Babcock & Wilcox products.
  • Claims Process: Claimants must provide medical documentation, employment history, and proof of exposure to complete the claims process.

5. Garlock Sealing Technologies Asbestos Trust

  • Established: 2017
  • Overview: Garlock Sealing Technologies established this trust to compensate individuals harmed by asbestos in its products.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases linked to Garlock products.
  • Claims Process: Claimants can file online or by mail, requiring supporting documents such as medical records and proof of product use.

6. U.S. Gypsum Asbestos Personal Injury Trust

  • Established: 2006
  • Overview: This trust was created to compensate victims of asbestos exposure related to U.S. Gypsum’s building materials.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses from U.S. Gypsum products.
  • Claims Process: Claimants must submit a claim form and documentation supporting their diagnosis and exposure history.

7. Armstrong World Industries Trust

  • Established: 2006
  • Overview: Armstrong established this trust following its bankruptcy to compensate victims of asbestos exposure from its ceiling and flooring products.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases due to Armstrong products.
  • Claims Process: Claims can be submitted online or by mail, requiring medical and exposure documentation.

8. Kaiser Aluminum Asbestos Trust

  • Established: 2006
  • Overview: Kaiser Aluminum created this trust to address claims from workers exposed to asbestos in its production facilities.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases due to exposure at Kaiser Aluminum facilities.
  • Claims Process: Claimants must provide detailed medical records and evidence of employment with Kaiser Aluminum.

9. PPG Industries Asbestos Trust

  • Established: 2004
  • Overview: PPG Industries established this trust to compensate individuals affected by asbestos exposure in its manufacturing processes.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases linked to PPG products.
  • Claims Process: Claims require documentation of medical diagnosis and evidence of exposure, which can be submitted online or via mail.

10. National Gypsum Company Asbestos Trust

  • Established: 2006
  • Overview: National Gypsum created this trust to address claims from individuals exposed to asbestos in its drywall and construction materials.
  • Eligibility: Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses due to National Gypsum products.
  • Claims Process: Claimants must provide a claim form along with supporting documents, including medical records and proof of product exposure.

Claims Process for Asbestos Trusts in Minnesota

  1. Eligibility Verification: Determine if you are eligible based on the specific trust’s criteria and your diagnosis.
  2. Gather Documentation: Collect necessary documents, including medical records, proof of exposure, and employment history.
  3. Complete the Claim Form: Fill out the claim form for the relevant trust, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
  4. Submit the Claim: Send your claim form and supporting documentation to the appropriate trust. Some trusts allow online submissions, while others may require mail.
  5. Await Response: The trust will review your claim and notify you of the determination. If approved, compensation will be issued according to the trust’s guidelines.

Conclusion

Asbestos trusts play a crucial role in providing financial compensation to victims of asbestos exposure in Minnesota. Understanding the available trusts and the claims process can significantly help individuals affected by asbestos-related illnesses secure the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, consulting with an experienced attorney can assist you in navigating the complexities of the claims process and ensure your rights are protected.

Additional Resources

References

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