In New York, a jury awarded $117 million to William Durbec and his wife, Victoria, in a landmark verdict related to William’s battle with malignant mesothelioma. The significant award includes $78 million for Mr. Durbec’s pain and suffering, along with an additional $39 million to Mrs. Durbec for her loss of companionship. This combined total marks a record for mesothelioma cases in the state.
The lawsuit stemmed from Mr. Durbec’s exposure to asbestos while working as a metal worker at the World Trade Center construction site during the 1970s. The couple filed claims against several parties, including Mario & DiBono Plastering Co., the Port Authority, and Tishman Realty & Construction Co. Testimonies revealed that Mr. Durbec was tasked with removing fireproofing material while installing ducts.
By the time the case reached trial, only Mario & DiBono remained as a defendant, facing allegations of recklessness in their handling of asbestos safety. This contractor has a history of similar lawsuits, previously ordered to pay millions to other workers exposed to asbestos during the World Trade Center’s construction.
The jury’s decision, which recognized the couple’s immense suffering through Mr. Durbec’s chemotherapy treatments and various surgeries, reflects a broader commitment to accountability in workplaces where asbestos exposure remains a concern. Advocates for victims of asbestos-related illnesses emphasize the importance of such verdicts in raising awareness and promoting safety standards.
With this ruling, Mr. Durbec’s individual award stands as the highest ever granted to an asbestos plaintiff in New York, highlighting the severe impact of occupational hazards. Both the Durbecs and their legal representatives hope that the outcome of this case will bring attention to the dangers associated with asbestos exposure in construction and manufacturing.
For anyone affected by mesothelioma or similar asbestos-related diseases, support and resources are available through various advocacy organizations.
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