Turner Power Plant Mesothelioma Lawsuit [2024 Update]

Turner Power Plant in Florida – Mesothelioma Lawsuit Overview

Originally constructed in the 1920s, the George E. Turner Power Plant was a staple of the Enterprise community. Built near the shore of Lake Monroe, the power plant has since been decommissioned and demolished. It is believed that the plant contained substantial amounts of asbestos. For decades, asbestos was used to insulate and fireproof machinery in the Turner Power plant and power plants nationwide. 

Individuals who worked at the George E. Turner Power Plant in Florida and their families may have a valid cause of action based on asbestos exposure. Due to their frequent contact with asbestos-containing materials, power plant workers have higher rates of asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma. 

If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness after working at the Turner Power Plant, contact King Law to schedule a free consultation.

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About the George E. Turner Power Plant in Enterprise, FL

The George E. Turner Power Plant in Enterprise, FL, was constructed in 1926 under the name the Benson Springs Power Plant. It is positioned on Lake Monroe’s north shore. During its peak, the power plant serviced over 300,000 homes. The plant, which started with a single unit, transitioned from coal to oil-producing until it was decommissioned in 1994. 

As demand grew, additional units were added to the plant. It would grow to encompass a 70,000-square-foot main building with distinctive architecture and 60-foot smokestacks. Throughout the decades it remained in service, Turner Power Plant was a significant employer to the local community, proving pivotal during the Great Depression. 

The plant was demolished in 2007. Eventually, the site was transitioned to an ecological buffer between Lake Monroe and a generation station owned by Progress Energy. It would be utilized for various purposes, including TV productions and firefighter training.

Asbestos Exposure at Turner Power Plant

Until the 1970s, asbestos was commonly used in equipment and materials through power plants in the United States, including Turner Power Plant. It was frequently used to insulate and fireproof turbines, boilers, arc chutes, and pipes. 

Asbestos-containing materials such as acoustical plaster, blankets, paneling, joint compounds, mastic, firebricks, gaskets, and cement were also used at power plants. Tragically, protective clothing and safety gear used extensively until the 1980s also contained asbestos. 

Asbestos exposure was nearly inescapable for power plant workers prior to the 1980s. Its effectiveness as an insulator meant that it was used in nearly every plant across the country, leading to high rates of mesothelioma and asbestosis. 

Asbestos-related exposure has been linked to handling asbestos insulation, pipes, and boilers. The continuous deterioration of asbestos products at power plants over time, including Turner Power Plant, likely increased the risk of exposure to workers and their families.

Asbestos-Containing Material and Equipment at Turner Power Plant

It is believed that asbestos was present in the material and equipment used at the Turner Power Plant in Enterprise, FL. 

Asbestos-containing products and safety equipment at power plants:

• Acoustical plaster
• Asbestos blankets 
• Paneling
• Joint compounds
• Mastic 
• Cement 
• Firebricks
• Gaskets
• Protective clothing (pants, coats, aprons, mitts and masks)
• Shoe coverings
• Boilers
• Fire blankets
• Fireproof clothing
• Insulation materials
• Lagging
• Packing insulation 
• Pipe insulation
• Pumps 
• Rupe
• Turbines

Power plant workers were likely exposed to substantial amounts of asbestos throughout nearly every aspect of their jobs.

Turner Power Plant Workers Most at Risk of Asbestos Exposure

While all workers and their family members were potentially exposed to asbestos while working at George E. Turner Power Plant, some plant employees were at an increased risk.

Occupational asbestos exposure at Turner Power Plant:

• Boilermakers: Boilermakers were likely exposed to asbestos when working on asbestos-insulated boilers and handling asbestos-containing gaskets and seals
• Pipefitters and Steamfitters: Individuals working as pipefitters and steamfitters at the Turner Power Plant may have encountered asbestos while insulating pipes and boilers.
• Electricians: Electricians may have been exposed to asbestos while working with insulation on wiring and electrical components or disturbing other materials that may have contained the dangerous substance.
• Insulators: Insulators likely had direct exposure to asbestos since insulation frequently contained asbestos until the 1980s.
• Millwrights: Millwrights may have had asbestos exposure while installing and maintaining asbestos-insulated machinery and equipment.
• Maintenance workers: Turner Power Plant maintenance workers may have been exposed while making repairs on equipment throughout the facility.
• Operators: Operators such as control room operators and stationary engineers may have risked exposure to asbestos while working at the site.
• Welders: Welders frequently risk exposure when welding near or on equipment that contains asbestos.
• Laborers: Laborers may have been exposed to asbestos when handling, installing, or demolishing asbestos-containing products. 

Former workers at the Turner Power Plant who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related condition such as mesothelioma may have a valid legal claim. It is important to discuss your case with an attorney as soon as possible to determine the best course of action moving forward.

Types of Mesothelioma Lawsuit Claims

There are several types of mesothelioma legal claims for Turner Power Plant employees, including personal injury lawsuits and wrongful death claims. Personal injury lawsuits are filed by individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, while wrongful death lawsuits are initiated by the families of deceased mesothelioma patients. 

Additionally, personal injury claimants may seek damages related to their treatment costs, lost wages, and future income. Wrongful death claims, on the other hand, focus on recovery for end-of-life care, lost income, and medical bills. 

Types of asbestos litigation:

• Individual lawsuits: Individual lawsuits are focused on personalized legal representation. They potentially result in higher payouts compared to other types of litigation.
• Class action lawsuits: Class action lawsuits are representative actions that are generally unsuitable for asbestos cases.
• Multidistrict litigation (MDL): MDLs centralize pretrial proceedings, helping to consolidate cases, but they are less common in mesothelioma cases.

The majority of mesothelioma cases proceed in state courts and favor state-level filings. However, it is important to discuss your case with an attorney to determine which type of case you should file.

Eligibility for Mesothelioma Compensation for Turner Workers

Many former Turner Power Plant workers may be eligible for mesothelioma compensation. Cases may require evidence to substantiate your claim, including proof of asbestos exposure and a mesothelioma or asbestos-related diagnosis. Records that may help to prove your case include paystubs, coworker testimonies, and medical reports confirming your diagnosis.

In order to file a personal injury lawsuit, you will need to demonstrate a mesothelioma diagnosis. Family members who have lost a loved one will need to prove the death was caused by an asbestos-related disease to file a wrongful death lawsuit. 

Additionally, liability must be established, showing that the defendant was responsible for the asbestos exposure. It is imperative to act quickly as cases are typically governed by a state-specific statute of limitations. Prompt action is strongly encouraged to ensure all legal deadlines are met.

Evidence to Gather for Turner Power Plant Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Evidence is important to build a mesothelioma case and also to improve the opportunity for compensation. Specific pieces of evidence that could support your Turner Power Plant asbestos claim include: 

• Proof of asbestos exposure 
• Details of how long you were exposed and how often 
• Employment history
• Coworker testimonies
• Proof of your asbestos-related diagnosis 
• Supporting medical records
• Details of your prognosis and treatments 
• Financial records showing lost wages, medical expenses, and other related damages 

One of mesothelioma lawyers can make sure you have everything you need to build a strong case. We can help with pinpointing the source of your asbestos exposure and finding the party you deem responsible for your exposure or a loved one’s toxic exposure. Reach out as soon as possible to ensure you file within your state’s deadlines.

Statute of Limitations on Mesothelioma Claims for Turner Employees

Mesothelioma claims for Turner Power Plant employees are subject to a state-specific statute of limitations. Failure to file within the statute of limitations may result in the case being dismissed. Under Florida law, mesothelioma lawsuits must be filed within four years from the date of the plaintiff’s diagnosis. Individuals who have lost a loved one must file a wrongful death claim within two years of the decedent’s mesothelioma-related death.

The deadline begins from the date of diagnosis, regardless of when asbestos exposure occurred. It is important to know that asbestos-related conditions may take years to develop, meaning many mesothelioma victims may not discover their illness for decades. Taking action immediately after a diagnosis can help ensure your case is filed timely within any legal deadlines.

Settlements for Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Florida

Settlement amounts in Florida mesothelioma lawsuits will vary depending on the individual circumstances of the case. However, average mesothelioma settlements are expected to range from $1 million to $1.4 million. Settlement funds are generally not taxable. Influencing factors will include the history and duration of asbestos exposure, disease type, cancer stage, and the number of potentially liable parties. 

Jury awards for mesothelioma lawsuits in Florida may range between $5 million and $11.4 million. They will vary substantially based on the specifics of the case. While settlements tend to be lower than jury awards, verdicts are not guaranteed to be favorable. Victims are advised to consult with a lawyer to explore the potential for compensation.

How to File a Turner Power Plant Mesothelioma Lawsuit

There are several steps to take to file a Turner Power Plant mesothelioma lawsuit. Foremost, you should contact an asbestos law firm immediately after a diagnosis or the death of a loved one related to mesothelioma. It is critical that you gather and provide any evidence that may be relevant to your case including medical records, proof of employment, financial data, and documentation of asbestos exposure. 

An attorney can help confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements to file a mesothelioma lawsuit. They will also help to strategize the best course of action in order to ensure the most favorable outcome in your case. Most cases will resolve in settlement. A legal representative can help manage all aspects of your claim and work to ensure you receive the largest recovery possible.

Contact a Turner Power Plant Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you are a former employee of the George E. Turner Power Plant in Enterprise, FL, and were subsequently diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may have a valid claim for damages. At King Law, we have extensive experience representing individuals who have suffered harm as a result of asbestos exposure. Contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For more information regarding Turner Power Plant, asbestos exposure, and mesothelioma, check out answers to these frequently asked questions.