Historic $40.1 Million Ruling in Favor of Navy Veteran Over Asbestos Exposure

Landmark Case: $40.1 Million Verdict for Navy Veteran

In a significant legal victory, Sokolove Law has secured a monumental $40.1 million verdict on behalf of Walter Twidwell, an 81-year-old U.S. Navy veteran diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, a severe cancer linked to asbestos exposure. This groundbreaking ruling occurred in the New York County Supreme Court against Goodyear, a company held responsible for supplying hazardous asbestos-containing products during Walter’s military service.

Walter Twidwell served his country for nearly 20 years as a boiler tender and fireman, managing maintenance and repairs across the engine and fire rooms of seven naval ships. Throughout this time, despite his awareness of the presence of asbestos, he was never cautioned about the potential dangers associated with exposure to it. Evidence presented during the trial unveiled that the risks posed by asbestos were known as early as the 1900s, with Goodyear being aware of these hazards since 1939. Nevertheless, the company failed to alert users regarding the dangers of its asbestos-laden gasket materials.

The verdict will not only assist Walter in covering medical costs but also support him in his ongoing battle against cancer while enabling him to give back to his community and church. The emotional strain of his diagnosis drastically altered Walter’s once self-sufficient lifestyle; he could no longer maintain his independence or carry on activities such as cutting wood or gardening.

“I can’t do anything for myself anymore,” Walter expressed, highlighting the deep impact of the disease on his life. “It hurts because I had been so independent.” The jury, after a brief deliberation of less than two hours, awarded him the substantial compensatory damages, recognizing the devastating loss of his dignity and self-reliance.

Ricky LeBlanc, the managing attorney at Sokolove Law, commented: “This verdict honors the service and sacrifice of a man who gave his life to his country, only to have it put at risk by corporate negligence. No one who has served our nation should suffer because corporations concealed the truth about asbestos.”
Walter praised his legal team for their meticulous preparation, stating, “They were ready — they could trace back to day one with the documentation needed to support our case.”

Sadly, Walter has passed away since the ruling. However, his legacy continues to fuel Sokolove Law’s commitment to advocating for veterans and their families affected by asbestos-related diseases. Over the last 45 years, the firm has tirelessly dedicated itself to assisting veterans and their loved ones in seeking the compensation they deserve, offering free consultations to prospective clients.

About Sokolove Law

Headquartered in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Sokolove Law is a national personal injury law firm dedicated to helping individuals pursue justice and compensation. Since its establishment in 1979, the firm has successfully recovered over $10 billion for clients in diverse cases including asbestos-related diseases, medical negligence, and more. Their commitment is rooted in making the legal system accessible to all, particularly for those who have bravely served the nation.

To learn more, visit Sokolove Law.