Occupational Disease

Disease cases can be very complex, often involving multiple defendants and multiple insurers. Keoghs has a dedicated team handling industrial and occupational disease claims.

In our view, it is critical to have a clear strategy and a well defined time-based action plan on each case. This makes sure that we are striving for the best commercial solution for you in the shortest possible timescale, whether that is a negotiated settlement or fight to trial.

How we can help

We have spent many years working closely with large insurers and corporate clients in this field and are acutely aware of the sensitive nature of this type of work.

We have substantial experience of co-ordinating our clients’ ‘first response’ to a particular type of claim to safeguard them against a ‘floodgate’ scenario. Here, it is essential to develop a strategy at the outset to either fight and win the first case or, alternatively, to minimise the knock on effect of compromising early claims. We have worked with many clients to formulate their policy for floodgate scenarios involving, for example, work related upper arm disorders, hand arm vibration syndrome and dermatitis.

We work in partnership with our clients and, where appropriate, build close links with insureds, helping to maintain a smooth communication flow. Some companies also instruct us directly.

Services

We provide support and advice on all types of disease cases including:

• Asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma and lung cancer
• Hand arm vibration syndrome
• Noise induced hearing loss
• Stress-related illnesses (including conditions allegedly caused by bullying in the workplace)
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Dermatitis
• Occupational asthma.

Benefits

Process driven approach. The combination of our technical expertise and highly efficient processes provides the client with a consistent, high quality service that can be relied upon.

Knowledge and expertise. Our dedicated team has many years of experience as well as an excellent understanding of the current market. Partner Gary Fitzpatrick is a member of the FOIL Disease Special Interest Group.

We deliver what we promise. We understand our clients’ needs and believe that delivering the best commercial solution for our clients should always be the priority of any case.

Professional recognition.We are recommended by both the Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession and Legal 500 for defendant personal injury work. Described by Legal 500 as

“Keoghs has an excellent reputation for catastrophic injury and disease cases.”

For advice or further information about how we can help you please contact:
Gary Fitzpatrick
Head of Disease
Telephone 01204 677339
eMail gfitzpatrick@keoghs.co.uk