Woman Sues Chevron over Husband’s Asbestos Death

A widow is suing oil giant Chevron USA, claiming that her deceased husband was exposed to asbestos due to negligence of the company, and developed malignant mesothelioma that resulted in his death.

Betty Lou has filed a personal injury lawsuit on November 20 in Jefferson County District Court.

Betty’s husband Billy Cunningham was an employee of Gulf Oil Corporation (which was later merged with Chevron). According to the lawsuit, Cunningham was exposed to toxic materials such as asbestos fibers throughout his career.

The suit states that Cunningham died a terrible painful death on February 11, 2009 after developing malignant mesothelioma, an incurable asbestos-related cancer.

Betty argues that the company was aware for decades that asbestos exposure can result in severe health problems, but still allowed its employees to work with and around the cancer-causing material.

The plaintiff alleges that the defendant corporation acted with malice and gross neglect for exposing Cunningham to asbestos. The suit states the company failed to promptly warn workers regarding the hazards of asbestos. According to the lawsuit, the defendant failed to take essential safety measures and provide proper warning and training for the employees.

Before the 1980s, asbestos was a very popular industrial material due to some of its excellent properties such as resistance to fire and electricity.

Betty is seeking exemplary damages, plus interest and other relief to which she might be entitled.

The case has been assigned to Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd Judicial District.

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