Featured Asbestos Verdict: $24M Awarded to Shipbuilder Exposed to Asbestos

Lucas v. Certainteed Corporation, et al. (San Francisco Super Ct., No. CGC-16-276549): On November 29, 2017, a $24,000,000 verdict was awarded to plaintiff George Lucas, and against remaining defendant Triple A Machine Shop. George Lucas, an 80 year old former long shoreman, alleged that he was developed mesothelioma as a result of occupational exposure to chrysotile and amosite asbestos while loading and unloading cargo including bags of raw asbestos fibers, and from exposure to thermal insulation on ships that were disturbed in his presence. Plaintiff further alleged that defendant was aware of the hazards of such exposure, and failed to take any measures to protect bystanders from exposure to asbestos. Defendant Triple A Machine shop denied that it was negligent and argued that Lucas should not have been working in the engine rooms. The jury attributed 27 percent liability to Triple A Machine Shop and 73 percent liability to “all others”. Plaintiff was represented by Brayton Purcell LLP. Defendant was represented by Foley Mansfield LLP.