Calif. Court Awards Summary Judgment to Gasket, Cloth Manufacturers in Asbestos Case

LOS ANGELES –– A California federal court has awarded summary judgment to two asbestos defendants, finding that the plaintiffs had failed to present sufficient evidence to link the decedent’s alleged exposure to the defendants’ asbestos-containing products.

In the March 28 order, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California found that defendants Lamons Gasket Co. and Parker-Hannifin Corp. were entitled to summary judgment.

The plaintiffs asserted the claims on behalf of Michael Walashek, contending that he was exposed to asbestos-containing products while working as a boilermaker. As a result of the exposure, Walshek developed mesothelioma, the complaint stated.