Peter’s Story: the hidden cancer threat facing truck drivers

Peter, a 75-year-old retiree, spent more than two decades serving his local council, with much of that time behind the wheel of diesel-powered trucks and sweepers. From 2000, Peter operated a range of heavy vehicles, including rear-loader compaction trucks, tippers, footpath sweepers, and patrol Utes.

He took pride in keeping his community clean and running smoothly, but it carried hidden health risks he wouldn’t uncover until years later. 

A life-changing diagnosis

In March 2022, Peter was diagnosed with advanced bladder cancer after noticing blood in his urine and undergoing a biopsy. The diagnosis came as a shock, but what followed was even more confronting.

Due to the severity of the bladder cancer, he underwent a life-altering surgery to remove his bladder. He now lives with a urostomy pouch (a waterproof external bag that collects urine). The physical and emotional toll was immense, and he wanted answers.

Understanding bladder cancer and its risks

Bladder cancer is a serious condition that develops when abnormal cells in the bladder begin to grow uncontrollably. Normally, cells grow, divide, and die in a regulated manner. But with cancer, some cells continue growing when they shouldn’t, forming a mass known as a tumour.

Most bladder cancers start in the urothelial cells, which line the inside of the bladder. This type, known as urothelial carcinoma (also called transitional cell carcinoma) is the most common form.

Medical research has also shown that certain occupations carry a higher risk of bladder cancer due to prolonged exposure to toxic or carcinogenic substances. These high-risk roles include:

• Manufacturing and industrial processing
• Metal and steel work
• Painting and printing
• Hairdressing and beauty services
• Truck driving and mechanical work
• Firefighting
• Textile production
• Chemical industry roles

In 2023, over 3,000 Australians were diagnosed with bladder cancer, making up approximately 1.9% of all new cancer cases that year. The disease has a five-year survival rate of just 57%, highlighting how serious and life-altering the condition can be.

Peter’s fight for justice

After consulting with his treating doctor, Peter reached out to Maurice Blackburn for legal advice. He connected with lawyer Ross Sottile, who began to investigate the possible link between Peter’s decades of diesel exposure and his bladder cancer diagnosis.

Ross uncovered mounting medical literature and international studies indicating that long-term truck drivers, especially those exposed to diesel fumes, face an elevated risk of developing bladder cancer.

With strong evidence in hand, our experienced legal team were able to build Peter’s case. We knew he deserved recognition and compensation for what was clearly a work-related illness, and it demanded accountability.

Overcoming rejection

Despite the initial rejection by the WorkCover insurer, our legal team fought tirelessly on his behalf. We were able to challenge the insurer’s decision and presented medical reports, work records, and epidemiological data linking diesel exposure to bladder cancer.

Eventually, the insurer reversed its decision and accepted Peter’s claim. His medical expenses were covered, and he was awarded a lump sum payment in recognition of his illness and its lasting impact.

The cost of workplace exposure

Peter’s story is unfortunately not unique. Too many workers are unknowingly exposed to hazardous substances during their careers, with long-term health consequences that don’t seem to appear until decades later.

In 2023 alone, over 3,000 Australians were diagnosed with bladder cancer, a disease with a five-year survival rate of just 57%. Many of these cases can be linked to workplace exposure, especially in industries like manufacturing, transport, and firefighting.

Truck drivers, particularly those working with diesel vehicles for long periods, face a heightened risk. Diesel exhaust contains harmful carcinogens, and prolonged exposure can silently damage the body over time.

Sharing his story to help others

Peter’s decision to speak out is driven by a simple but powerful desire: to protect others from suffering in silence.

“I had no idea that my job could lead to this,” says Peter. “If I can help even one person get checked sooner, or speak to a lawyer if something feels off, then sharing my story is worth it.”

His message is clear: if you’ve worked in a high-risk industry and are now facing a serious health condition, don’t ignore it. Ask questions. Seek support. And know that legal advice is available to help you navigate your options.

Supporting workers with occupational illness claims

No one should have to face a life-threatening diagnosis alone, especially when their job may have caused that illness.

At Maurice Blackburn, we’re proud to represent clients like Peter, who show incredible strength in the face of adversity.

Our team is committed to advocating for workers with job-related diseases and ensuring their rights are upheld even when the path to justice is long and difficult.

Peter’s courage in pursuing his occupational disease claim not only led to compensation for his own suffering but also shines a light on an often-overlooked health crisis in the transport industry.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a serious illness and believe your work environment may have contributed, you may be eligible to make a workplace illness claim.

Our dedicated legal team has deep experience in occupational disease cases, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Your health matters, and so does your right to justice. Use our free claim check tool to see if you’re eligible or get in touch today.