Content Medically Reviewed & Updated: February 16, 2026 Call 24/7: 1-800-400-1805
1-800-400-1805 Free Case Review
Diagnosed? Get a Free Mesothelioma Case Review No cost · No obligation · Attorneys available 24/7 Get Started
Updated: February 16, 2026

Mesothelioma & Asbestos Exposure in Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville's proximity to Oak Ridge nuclear facilities, TVA power plants, and the Alcoa aluminum operations created decades of asbestos exposure for East Tennessee workers. According to WikiMesothelioma.com, communities near nuclear production and power generation facilities face significantly elevated mesothelioma risk. URGENT: Tennessee has only a 1-year statute of limitations for mesothelioma claims — one of the shortest in the nation. Immediate action is critical.

Oak Ridge Nuclear Facility Exposure
$30B+ In Trust Funds Available
1 Year TN Statute — ACT NOW
$0 Upfront Legal Cost

Free Knoxville Case Review

Tennessee's 1-year deadline is urgent. Speak with an attorney today.

Your information is confidential. No fees unless we win.

BBB A+ Accredited Since 2009
Super Lawyers Multiple Years Selected
National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers
AV Preeminent Martindale-Hubbell Rated
AAJ Member American Association for Justice
$2B+ Recovered for Clients

Tennessee's 1-Year Filing Deadline Is Critical

Tennessee gives mesothelioma patients only 1 year from the date of diagnosis to file a personal injury claim. This is one of the shortest deadlines in the nation. If you or a family member has been diagnosed, do not delay — contact an attorney immediately or call 1-800-400-1805.

Settlement data verified & updated:

Mesothelioma Compensation for Knoxville Families: What Our Clients Have Recovered

If your family is facing a mesothelioma diagnosis in Knoxville, you are not alone — and compensation may be available. Below are actual amounts received by real clients of our firm, after attorneys’ fees and expenses, in mesothelioma cases involving asbestos exposure. Our attorneys represent families nationwide, including in Knoxville.

$30B+ Available in Asbestos Trust Funds
$1M – $1.4M Average Mesothelioma Settlement
$2.4M Average Trial Verdict
$2B+ Recovered for Our Clients
$5,939,010 Construction / Demolition

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 46, who was exposed to asbestos while repairing boats and while doing demolition and repair of buildings damaged by fire and flooding.

$4,750,000 U.S. Navy Veteran

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 49, who was exposed to asbestos through his career in the Navy.

$3,921,750 Navy / Construction

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a man, age 68, who was exposed through his service in the Navy, as an auto mechanic, and while working in construction.

$3,403,890 Navy / HVAC Mechanic

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 57, who was exposed through his service in the Navy and as a refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic.

$3,310,650 Industrial / HVAC

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 62, who was exposed while installing industrial and commercial furnaces and air conditioning units.

$2,727,900 Navy / Telecom

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 61, who was exposed through his service in the Navy and as a telephone installer and repairman.

$2,082,780 Oil Refinery / Drywaller

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 81, who was exposed through his work at an oil refinery and as a drywaller.

$1,988,910 Oil Field Worker

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a gentleman, age 50, who was exposed as an oil field worker.

$1,886,580 Secondary Exposure

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a woman, age 62, who was exposed through contact with asbestos fibers on the clothes of her husband, who worked as an electrician at a shipyard.

$1,181,250 Secondary Exposure

Received after attorneys' fees and expenses, by a woman, age 33, who was exposed through contact with asbestos fibers on the clothes of her father, who worked at an auto plant.

All amounts shown are received by clients after attorneys’ fees and expenses. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique and compensation depends on individual circumstances including exposure history, diagnosis, and jurisdiction.

View all 70+ mesothelioma case results →

Find Out What Your Case May Be Worth

If you or a family member has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after asbestos exposure, a free case review can help you understand your options. There is no cost and no obligation.

Get a Free Case Review

Free consultation · No obligation · No fees unless we win

Free Estimate

Estimate What Your Knoxville Case May Be Worth

Answer three quick questions to see potential compensation ranges based on cases similar to yours.

Free Compensation Estimate

What Could Your Mesothelioma Case Be Worth?

Every case is different, but understanding the factors that affect compensation can help you make informed decisions. Three quick questions — no obligation.

What type of asbestos exposure occurred?

Question 1 of 3

When did the asbestos exposure most likely occur?

Question 2 of 3

What is the current diagnosis?

Question 3 of 3

Estimated Range

Your Estimated Compensation Range

Based on your answers, here is an estimated compensation range for cases similar to yours.

100% Confidential. No fees unless we recover compensation for you. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique.

100% Confidential
$2B+ Recovered for Clients
Takes Less Than 60 Seconds
Medical and legal information reviewed and updated: • Sources: DOE records, industrial records, asbestos litigation databases

Why Mesothelioma Cases Occur in Knoxville

Knoxville's mesothelioma risk stems primarily from its proximity to Oak Ridge — just 25 miles to the west — where three massive federal nuclear facilities were built during World War II's Manhattan Project. The Y-12 National Security Complex, K-25 Gaseous Diffusion Plant, and X-10 (now Oak Ridge National Laboratory) were constructed rapidly in the 1940s using enormous quantities of asbestos insulation. Thousands of Knoxville-area residents commuted to Oak Ridge daily for decades, accumulating occupational asbestos exposure that would not manifest as mesothelioma for 20 to 50 years.

According to WikiMesothelioma.com, workers at nuclear production facilities and DOE sites are among the most heavily exposed populations in the United States due to the extensive use of asbestos insulation in high-temperature nuclear processing equipment. The Knoxville-Oak Ridge corridor exemplifies this pattern, with tens of thousands of workers rotating through federal facilities that relied on asbestos throughout their operational lifetimes.

Beyond Oak Ridge, the Knoxville area's industrial base included TVA power plants throughout East Tennessee, the Alcoa aluminum smelting operations in Blount County, Robertshaw Controls, and various railroad maintenance facilities. Each of these operations used asbestos-containing materials in their facilities and equipment, creating additional occupational exposure for Knoxville-area workers.

The 20-to-50-Year Latency Period and Tennessee's Urgent Deadline

Mesothelioma has a latency period of 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure. Workers who were exposed at Oak Ridge facilities, TVA plants, or Alcoa operations during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s are being diagnosed now. A pipe insulator who worked at the K-25 plant in 1970 may only receive a mesothelioma diagnosis in 2026.

What makes Knoxville cases uniquely urgent is Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations. Unlike most states that allow 2 or more years, Tennessee requires that a personal injury lawsuit be filed within just 1 year of diagnosis. This is one of the shortest filing deadlines in the country. Every month that passes after diagnosis without legal consultation reduces the time available to build a strong case, identify all responsible parties, and file necessary claims.

URGENT: Tennessee's 1-Year Statute of Limitations

Tennessee's 1-year filing deadline for mesothelioma personal injury claims is among the shortest in the nation. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in the Knoxville area, you must consult with an experienced mesothelioma attorney immediately. Waiting even a few months can jeopardize your ability to file a claim. Our attorneys provide free, no-obligation consultations and can begin evaluating your case the same day you call. Contact us now at 1-800-400-1805 or request a free case review.

Common Sources of Asbestos Exposure in East Tennessee

The Knoxville area served as a hub for multiple industries that relied on asbestos for thermal insulation, fireproofing, and equipment protection. The following represent the most significant sources of occupational asbestos exposure for Knoxville-area residents.

Oak Ridge Nuclear Facilities

The three Oak Ridge facilities built during the Manhattan Project represent the single largest source of asbestos exposure for the Knoxville-area workforce. These enormous complexes were constructed in the early 1940s and operated for decades using vast quantities of asbestos-containing insulation, gaskets, and building materials.

  • Y-12 National Security Complex — Electromagnetic uranium enrichment facility; asbestos used extensively in pipe insulation, building materials, electrical wiring insulation, and processing equipment throughout the complex
  • K-25 Gaseous Diffusion Plant — At the time of its construction, the largest building in the world under one roof; asbestos insulation used throughout the massive uranium enrichment process piping, barrier systems, and support infrastructure
  • X-10 (Oak Ridge National Laboratory) — Nuclear research facility; asbestos in laboratory buildings, reactor systems, pipe insulation, and research equipment from the 1940s through the 1980s

TVA Power Plants

The Tennessee Valley Authority operated multiple coal-fired power plants throughout East Tennessee. These facilities used asbestos insulation on boilers, turbines, steam pipes, and electrical components. Workers who built, maintained, and operated TVA plants were exposed to asbestos fibers as part of routine operations.

  • Bull Run Fossil Plant (Clinton) — Large TVA coal-fired plant near Knoxville; asbestos in boiler insulation, turbine casings, pipe coverings, and building materials
  • Kingston Fossil Plant (Harriman) — One of TVA's largest coal-fired generating stations; documented asbestos use in boilers, piping, and facility construction

Aluminum Production

Alcoa's aluminum smelting operations in Blount County, just south of Knoxville, represented another significant source of asbestos exposure. Aluminum production involves extreme temperatures and requires extensive thermal insulation.

  • Alcoa/ALCOA Tennessee Operations — Aluminum smelting and rolling facilities; asbestos in pot linings, furnace insulation, pipe coverings, and facility infrastructure from the 1910s through the 1980s

Additional Industrial Sites

  • Robertshaw Controls (Knoxville) — Manufactured thermostats and control devices; asbestos in manufacturing equipment insulation and factory building materials
  • Southern Railway/Norfolk Southern yards — Railroad maintenance facilities in the Knoxville area with asbestos in locomotive insulation, brake linings, and shop buildings
  • Standard Knitting Mill — Textile manufacturing with asbestos in boiler insulation and factory infrastructure
Exposure Source Type of Facility Asbestos Uses Peak Exposure Era
Y-12 Complex Nuclear Weapons Production Pipe insulation, buildings, processing equipment 1940s–1980s
K-25 Plant Uranium Enrichment Process piping, barrier systems, buildings 1940s–1980s
X-10/ORNL Nuclear Research Lab buildings, reactor systems, pipe insulation 1940s–1980s
TVA Bull Run Plant Power Generation Boiler insulation, turbine casings, piping 1960s–1980s
Alcoa Tennessee Aluminum Smelting Furnace insulation, pot linings, piping 1940s–1980s
Robertshaw Controls Manufacturing Equipment insulation, building materials 1950s–1980s

If you worked at any of these facilities or other industrial sites in the Knoxville area before the mid-1980s, asbestos exposure is likely. Our attorneys maintain detailed databases of East Tennessee exposure sites and can investigate your work history as part of a free case evaluation. Remember: Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations makes prompt action essential.

Jobs in Knoxville Linked to Asbestos Exposure

Certain occupations in East Tennessee's nuclear, power generation, aluminum, and manufacturing sectors carried a dramatically higher risk of asbestos exposure. If you or a family member held any of these positions at a Knoxville-area facility or commuted to Oak Ridge for work, mesothelioma risk is elevated and Tennessee's 1-year filing deadline requires immediate attention.

Oak Ridge Facility Workers

Workers at Y-12, K-25, and X-10 performed construction, maintenance, and operations in buildings saturated with asbestos insulation. Pipefitters, insulators, electricians, laborers, and process operators all encountered asbestos daily. The massive scale of these facilities — K-25 alone covered 44 acres under one roof — meant that thousands of workers were exposed simultaneously. Construction crews who built and expanded these facilities in the 1940s and 1950s handled raw asbestos materials directly.

TVA Power Plant Workers

Workers at TVA coal-fired plants including Bull Run and Kingston maintained boilers, turbines, and steam systems insulated with asbestos. Boiler tenders, turbine mechanics, pipefitters, and electricians replaced asbestos gaskets, packing, and insulation during routine maintenance and overhauls. The enclosed environments of power plant boiler rooms concentrated asbestos fibers to hazardous levels during maintenance activities.

Alcoa Aluminum Workers

Employees at Alcoa's Tennessee operations worked with smelting pots, furnaces, and processing equipment surrounded by asbestos insulation. Pot room operators, furnace workers, maintenance mechanics, and electricians all encountered asbestos as part of their daily work. The extreme temperatures in aluminum smelting required extensive thermal insulation, and asbestos was the primary material used for this purpose for decades.

Pipefitters & Insulators

Pipefitters and insulators who worked across East Tennessee industrial sites — from Oak Ridge to TVA plants to Alcoa — were among the most heavily exposed workers. These tradespeople installed, removed, and repaired asbestos-containing pipe insulation, gaskets, and packing materials as the core of their daily work. Many pipefitters and insulators worked at multiple facilities over their careers, accumulating exposure at each site.

Construction Workers

Construction workers who built and expanded Knoxville-area industrial facilities handled asbestos-containing materials including insulation, cement board, floor tiles, roofing materials, and spray-on fireproofing. The rapid construction of Oak Ridge facilities during World War II employed thousands of construction workers in environments where asbestos use was pervasive and protective equipment was virtually nonexistent.

Railroad Workers

Southern Railway and Norfolk Southern employees at Knoxville-area yards and shops were exposed to asbestos in locomotive insulation, steam pipe lagging, brake linings, and shop building materials. Boilermakers, machinists, and carmen faced the highest exposure levels during locomotive and railcar repair. Railroad workers may also have FELA claims in addition to standard asbestos trust fund claims.

Document Your Work History Now — Tennessee's Deadline Is 1 Year

If you held any of these positions at a Knoxville-area or Oak Ridge facility, begin documenting your work history immediately. Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations means there is no time to delay. Our attorneys can help reconstruct your employment timeline, identify every facility where exposure occurred, and connect that history to specific asbestos product manufacturers and trust funds. Call 1-800-400-1805 for a free consultation today.

Free Assessment

Were You Exposed to Asbestos in the Knoxville Area? Find Out Now

Answer three quick questions about your East Tennessee work history to learn whether you may qualify for compensation. Tennessee's 1-year deadline makes this urgent.

Where in the Knoxville area did the asbestos exposure most likely occur?

Question 1 of 3

What type of work was performed?

Question 2 of 3

When did the exposure most likely occur?

Question 3 of 3

You May Qualify

Based on your East Tennessee work history, you may be connected to multiple sources of compensation including asbestos trust funds and potentially federal EEOICPA benefits.

Knoxville-area exposure cases — particularly those involving Oak Ridge — can involve multiple compensation sources. Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations makes immediate action critical. Complete the form below for a free, confidential case review.

100% Confidential. No fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Types of Mesothelioma Diagnosed in Knoxville

Mesothelioma develops when inhaled or ingested asbestos fibers become embedded in the lining of internal organs, causing cellular damage that leads to malignant tumor growth over decades. Knoxville's exposure profile — dominated by nuclear facility work, power generation, and aluminum production — produces specific patterns of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs)

Pleural mesothelioma accounts for approximately 75 to 80 percent of all mesothelioma diagnoses and is the most common form seen in Knoxville patients. This type develops in the pleura — the thin membrane surrounding the lungs — when inhaled asbestos fibers cause chronic inflammation and eventual malignancy. Oak Ridge facility workers, TVA plant employees, and Alcoa workers who inhaled asbestos dust over years of occupational exposure are at the highest risk. Symptoms include persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, and fluid buildup around the lungs.

If you worked at an East Tennessee industrial facility and are experiencing respiratory symptoms, inform your physician about your occupational history. Visit our diagnosis and treatment page for more information. Remember: Tennessee's 1-year deadline means you should also consult an attorney as soon as possible after diagnosis.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen)

Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the peritoneum — the lining of the abdominal cavity — and accounts for approximately 15 to 20 percent of diagnoses. Symptoms include abdominal pain and swelling, unexplained weight loss, and bowel changes. Treatment has advanced significantly, with cytoreductive surgery combined with HIPEC showing improved survival rates. Regardless of type, the same legal options are available — but Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations applies to all mesothelioma claims.

Mesothelioma Treatment Centers Near Knoxville, Tennessee

While Tennessee does not currently have NCI-designated mesothelioma specialty centers, patients from Knoxville have access to the nation’s top treatment programs. Many of these leading centers accept out-of-state patients and offer travel assistance programs. Below are nationally recognized mesothelioma treatment centers that serve patients from Knoxville and across the country.

MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, TX NCI-Designated Cancer Center
Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Clinical Trials Radiation Multimodal Therapy

Ranked #1 for cancer care nationwide, MD Anderson treats mesothelioma patients from all 50 states and offers the most comprehensive mesothelioma treatment program in the country.

Brigham and Women's Hospital / Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, MA NCI-Designated Cancer Center
Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Clinical Trials Radiation Multimodal Therapy

The Brigham and Dana-Farber alliance is one of the nation's leading mesothelioma treatment programs, known for pioneering surgical techniques and multimodal therapy protocols.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York City, NY NCI-Designated Cancer Center
Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Clinical Trials Radiation Multimodal Therapy

One of the world's most experienced cancer centers, MSK operates a dedicated mesothelioma program and extensive clinical trial portfolio for patients nationwide.

Need Help Finding a Specialist?

Our attorneys work with leading mesothelioma specialists nationwide and can help connect you with the right treatment team. Call 1-800-400-1805 for a referral.

Knoxville Veterans & Military Asbestos Exposure

East Tennessee has a significant veteran population, and many of these veterans carry a dual asbestos exposure history. Some were exposed during military service and then took jobs at Oak Ridge facilities, TVA plants, or Alcoa operations after their discharge — creating decades of cumulative asbestos exposure.

Military Asbestos Exposure

The U.S. military used asbestos extensively from the 1930s through the 1970s, particularly in Navy ships, Army barracks, and Air Force facilities. Veterans who served aboard Navy ships, worked in engine rooms, maintained aircraft, or lived in asbestos-insulated buildings may have been exposed.

Dual Exposure: Military Service Followed by Oak Ridge or TVA Work

A pattern seen in Knoxville mesothelioma cases involves veterans who transitioned from military service into jobs at Oak Ridge nuclear facilities, TVA power plants, or other East Tennessee industrial sites. The technical skills from military service — pipefitting, electrical work, mechanical maintenance — were directly transferable to these civilian positions, resulting in additional decades of asbestos exposure.

Veterans with dual exposure may qualify for multiple compensation sources:

  • VA Disability Compensation — Monthly tax-free benefits for service-connected mesothelioma
  • VA Healthcare — Treatment at VA medical centers at no cost
  • Special Monthly Compensation — Additional VA benefits for veterans requiring aid and attendance
  • Asbestos Trust Fund Claims — Claims against asbestos product manufacturers' trust funds
  • Personal Injury Lawsuits — Civil claims against manufacturers and employers
  • EEOICPA Benefits — Federal compensation for veterans who subsequently worked at DOE facilities like Oak Ridge

Veterans: Tennessee's 1-Year Deadline Applies to You Too

While VA claims have their own timeline, civil mesothelioma lawsuits and trust fund claims in Tennessee are subject to the state's 1-year statute of limitations. Filing for VA benefits does not extend this deadline. Our attorneys help Knoxville-area veterans pursue every available source of compensation simultaneously. Call 1-800-400-1805 immediately after diagnosis.

Family Members Exposed to Asbestos in Knoxville

Asbestos exposure in the Knoxville area extended beyond the workplace. For decades, workers at Oak Ridge, TVA plants, Alcoa, and other facilities carried asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin, and hair — unknowingly exposing their families. This secondary or take-home exposure has led to mesothelioma diagnoses in people who never set foot inside a nuclear facility or power plant.

How Secondary Exposure Occurred

Oak Ridge facility workers, TVA plant employees, and Alcoa workers arrived home covered in dust that included asbestos fibers. Spouses who laundered contaminated work clothes released asbestos fibers into household air. Children who had close contact with workers were also exposed. The secrecy surrounding Oak Ridge operations meant that many workers did not know the specific materials they were exposed to, let alone the risks to their families.

Legal Rights of Knoxville Families

Tennessee courts recognize secondary asbestos exposure as a valid basis for mesothelioma claims. Family members who developed mesothelioma from take-home exposure have the same legal right to pursue compensation as the workers themselves. Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations applies equally to secondary exposure claims — immediate action is required.

Support Groups & Resources for Knoxville Families

A mesothelioma diagnosis affects the entire family. These organizations provide support, education, counseling, and practical assistance for patients and caregivers.

National Organizations

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation

Research & Patient Support

Leading mesothelioma research foundation providing patient support, education, and peer-to-peer networking for patients and families.

Visit Website →

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)

Advocacy & Education

National advocacy organization dedicated to preventing asbestos exposure, providing support for those affected, and driving a global ban on asbestos.

Visit Website →

American Cancer Society

Patient Services

Comprehensive cancer support including patient navigation, local support groups, transportation assistance, lodging programs, and 24/7 helpline.

Visit Website →

CancerCare

Counseling & Support

Free professional counseling, support groups, educational workshops, and financial assistance programs for cancer patients and caregivers.

Visit Website →

Tennessee Resources

Tennessee Cancer Coalition

State Resources

State-level cancer support, advocacy, and resources connecting Tennessee families with local support services, financial assistance, and treatment information.

Visit Website →

Personalized Resource Recommendations

Our team can connect your family with support resources tailored to your specific situation — including local support groups, financial assistance programs, and caregiver resources. Call 1-800-400-1805.

Filing Deadline Check

Is Your Family Still Eligible to File?

Statutes of limitations can be as short as 1 year. Find out if your family’s filing window is still open.

Free Deadline Check — 60 Seconds

Don’t Let the Filing Window Close on Your Family

Every state has strict deadlines for filing mesothelioma claims. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation entirely. Answer three quick questions to understand where your family stands.

When was the mesothelioma diagnosis confirmed?

Question 1 of 3

In which state did the primary asbestos exposure occur?

Question 2 of 3

Has your family spoken with a mesothelioma attorney yet?

Question 3 of 3

Filing Status

Your Filing Window Status

Based on your answers, here is your filing deadline status.

100% Confidential. No fees unless we recover compensation for you. A free case evaluation with our attorneys can confirm your specific filing deadline.

100% Confidential
Every Day Matters
No Obligation
Your Mesothelioma Questions, Answered — Free Patient and Family Guide
Free — No Obligation

Free Guide: Knoxville & Oak Ridge Asbestos Exposure & Your Legal Rights

If you or a family member worked at Oak Ridge, TVA plants, Alcoa, or other East Tennessee industrial sites, this guide explains your legal options — including Tennessee's critical 1-year filing deadline.

  • Oak Ridge and East Tennessee exposure sites and responsible entities
  • Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations — what you need to know
  • Asbestos trust funds and EEOICPA federal benefits for DOE workers
  • How to document your East Tennessee work history
  • Veterans benefits for dual-exposure cases
  • Secondary exposure rights for workers' families

We respect your privacy. No spam, no obligations. Unsubscribe anytime.

Steps Knoxville Families Must Take After Diagnosis

Because Tennessee has only a 1-year statute of limitations for mesothelioma claims, the sequence and timing of post-diagnosis steps is more urgent here than in most states. The following steps should be initiated as soon as possible after a mesothelioma diagnosis.

  1. Contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney immediately. This is listed first because Tennessee's 1-year deadline is non-negotiable. An experienced attorney can begin building your case while you focus on medical care. Do not wait until you "feel ready" or until treatment is underway — the legal clock is already ticking. Our firm offers free, same-day consultations. Call 1-800-400-1805.
  2. Prioritize medical care. Seek treatment from an oncologist experienced with mesothelioma. The University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville offer advanced cancer treatment. Your attorney will work around your treatment schedule.
  3. Document your East Tennessee work history. Write down every job, every facility, and every trade — particularly any work at Oak Ridge facilities, TVA plants, Alcoa, or other industrial sites. Include dates, job titles, employer names, contractor names, and coworker names.
  4. Build an exposure timeline. For each job, note specific tasks involving asbestos contact. If you worked at Oak Ridge, note which facility (Y-12, K-25, or X-10) and which buildings or areas. If you served in the military, include your service details.
  5. Preserve important documents. Gather old tax returns, Social Security earnings statements, dosimetry records (for Oak Ridge workers), military service records, medical records, and any photographs from job sites.
  6. Understand your compensation options. Knoxville mesothelioma patients may qualify for personal injury lawsuits, asbestos trust funds (over $30 billion available nationally), VA benefits, and — for Oak Ridge workers — federal EEOICPA compensation. Your attorney should evaluate every option immediately.

Do Not Wait — Tennessee's Clock Is Running

Our attorneys have helped hundreds of families across the country through the legal process after a mesothelioma diagnosis. We handle every aspect of the legal case so you can focus on your health. The consultation is free, there is no obligation, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation. But in Tennessee, you must act within 1 year of diagnosis. Request a free case review now or call 1-800-400-1805.

Portrait of Paul Danziger, Co-Founder and Lead Attorney at Danziger & De Llano
Co-Founder & Lead Attorney

Paul Danziger

Texas Bar #00788880 • Admitted 1993 • Northwestern University School of Law

Paul Danziger has spent over 30 years representing mesothelioma patients and their families across the United States. He co-founded Danziger & De Llano, LLP with the mission of providing personal attention and aggressive advocacy that asbestos victims deserve.

Before law school, Paul earned his B.B.A. and a Master's degree in Tax Accounting from the University of Texas and worked as a CPA and tax consultant in New York. His financial and legal background gives him a distinctive ability to evaluate complex mesothelioma cases and maximize compensation for his clients.

Paul has been named a Texas Super Lawyer multiple times (2006–2009, 2014–2016, 2024) and was recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers. He is also the executive producer and co-writer of the film Puncture (starring Chris Evans), based on a real product liability case.

30+ Years in Practice
Super Lawyers Multiple Years
Top 100 National Trial Lawyers
Speak with Paul About Your Knoxville Case

Free consultation. No obligation. No fees unless we win.

Portrait of Rod De Llano, Co-Founder and Senior Trial Attorney at Danziger & De Llano
Co-Founder & Senior Trial Attorney

Rod De Llano

Texas Bar #00786666 • Admitted 1993 • Northwestern University School of Law

Rod De Llano brings over 30 years of complex litigation experience to every mesothelioma case he handles. A Princeton University graduate with a degree in economics, Rod combines analytical rigor with a deep commitment to justice for asbestos victims and their families.

Rod and Paul Danziger have worked together since law school at Northwestern, building one of the most experienced mesothelioma practices in the country. Rod's expertise in complex litigation — including multi-district asbestos cases, trust fund claims, and trial proceedings — ensures that every client receives the strongest possible representation.

30+ Years in Practice
Princeton University Graduate
$2B+ Recovered for Clients
Speak with Rod About Your Knoxville Case

Free consultation. No obligation. No fees unless we win.

Find Out What Your Knoxville Mesothelioma Case Is Worth

If you or a family member was exposed to asbestos at an Oak Ridge facility, TVA plant, Alcoa operation, or other East Tennessee industrial site and has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Tennessee's 1-year statute of limitations makes immediate action essential.

Free & Confidential No upfront costs, no hidden fees. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Firm Our attorneys represent families across Tennessee and all 50 states.
Over 30 Years of Experience Our attorneys have recovered over $2 billion for mesothelioma patients and families.
Fast Results Trust fund claims can resolve in as few as 90 days. Critical with Tennessee's 1-year deadline.

Or call us 24/7: 1-800-400-1805

Take the First Step — It's Free

By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted about your potential case. Your information is confidential and protected. No fees unless we recover compensation for you. This is attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

FAQ answers reviewed by legal team:

Frequently Asked Questions About Mesothelioma in Knoxville

Why does Knoxville have elevated mesothelioma risk?

Knoxville's proximity to Oak Ridge — home to the Y-12, K-25, and X-10 nuclear facilities — created one of the most significant asbestos exposure zones in the southeastern United States. According to WikiMesothelioma.com, workers at nuclear production facilities face elevated mesothelioma risk due to extensive asbestos use. Additionally, TVA power plants, Alcoa aluminum operations, Robertshaw Controls, and railroad yards all used asbestos extensively. The 20-to-50-year latency period means these exposures continue to produce new diagnoses today.

What is the statute of limitations for mesothelioma in Tennessee?

URGENT: Tennessee has only a 1-year statute of limitations — one of the shortest in the country. You have just 1 year from the date of diagnosis to file a personal injury lawsuit, and 1 year from the date of death for wrongful death claims. This extremely tight deadline means Knoxville families must act immediately. Delays of even a few months can permanently forfeit the right to file a claim. Call 1-800-400-1805 today.

Were Oak Ridge workers near Knoxville exposed to asbestos?

Yes. The Y-12, K-25, and X-10 facilities used massive quantities of asbestos insulation from the 1940s through the 1980s. Thousands of Knoxville-area residents commuted to Oak Ridge daily. These workers may also qualify for federal EEOICPA compensation ($150,000 to $250,000 plus medical benefits) in addition to standard asbestos trust fund claims and lawsuits.

Can Knoxville-area workers file mesothelioma claims?

Yes. Workers exposed to asbestos at Oak Ridge, TVA plants, Alcoa, or other East Tennessee sites can pursue personal injury lawsuits, asbestos trust fund claims, VA benefits, and potentially EEOICPA federal compensation. However, Tennessee's 1-year deadline makes immediate legal consultation essential to preserve all claims.

Do Knoxville veterans qualify for additional benefits?

Yes. Veterans with mesothelioma may qualify for VA disability compensation, VA healthcare, and special monthly compensation in addition to civil claims. Veterans who subsequently worked at Oak Ridge facilities may also qualify for EEOICPA benefits. Our attorneys help veterans pursue all sources simultaneously.

Can family members of Knoxville workers file claims?

Yes. Family members who developed mesothelioma from secondary (take-home) asbestos exposure can file their own claims. Workers at Oak Ridge, TVA, and other facilities carried asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Tennessee's 1-year statute applies to secondary exposure claims as well.

How much compensation can Knoxville mesothelioma patients receive?

Compensation varies by case, but Knoxville cases involving Oak Ridge exposure may qualify for both standard asbestos compensation and federal EEOICPA benefits. Over $30 billion remains in asbestos trust funds nationally. Our firm has recovered over $2 billion for mesothelioma patients. Tennessee's 1-year deadline makes prompt action essential to preserve all claims.

How do I find a mesothelioma lawyer for my Knoxville case?

Given Tennessee's 1-year deadline, finding experienced representation quickly is critical. Choose attorneys who focus on mesothelioma litigation, understand Oak Ridge and TVA exposure cases, and work on contingency. Danziger & De Llano has over 30 years of nationwide mesothelioma experience. Call 1-800-400-1805 or submit a form above for an immediate evaluation.

This page was last reviewed and updated on by the legal team at Danziger & De Llano, LLP.

Sources & References

  1. NCI SEER Program — Mesothelioma Cancer Stat Facts
  2. ATSDR — Toxicological Profile for Asbestos
  3. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency — Asbestos
  4. OSHA — Asbestos Standards and Regulations
  5. National Cancer Institute — Mesothelioma Treatment (PDQ)
  6. American Cancer Society — Malignant Mesothelioma
  7. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Asbestos Exposure
  8. RAND Corporation — Asbestos Litigation Costs and Compensation

Knoxville Families: Tennessee's 1-Year Deadline Demands Action Now

If you or someone you love was exposed to asbestos at Oak Ridge, a TVA plant, Alcoa, or any East Tennessee industrial site, do not wait. Tennessee gives you only 1 year from diagnosis to file a claim. Our attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation your family deserves.

Call 1-800-400-1805 Request a Free Case Review

Free consultation • No obligation • Available 24/7 • No fees unless we win

BBB A+ Accredited 4.8★ Google Rating $2B+ Recovered 30+ Years Experience
Call Now: (800) 400-1805 Free Case Review • Available 24/7