Louisiana Lawyer BlogBaton Rouge Benzene Spill Worse than Projected
ExxonMobil estimates that it accidentally released 28,700 pounds of naphtha at its Baton Rouge site June 14. Naptha contains the hazardous chemical benzene, a carcinogen recognized by the EPA. When ExxonMobil first reported the release to the state Department of Environmental Quality last week, it only reported a 10-pound spill.
Benzene is a hazardous, colorless liquid chemical that is quickly absorbed by the air. Benzene is an ingredient in gasoline, crude oil and cigarette smoke. Short-term inhalation can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, convulsions and unconsciousness. Long-term inhalation or ingestion can lead to blood disorders and certain cancers.
A toxic tort is a harm caused by exposure to a dangerous chemical substance. Toxic torts often arise when corporations intentionally or negligently release dangerous chemicals into the environment. In order to prevail in a toxic tort case, a plaintiff must prove harmful exposure to the chemical, an injury and a causal link to the defendant.
If you or a loved one believes you suffered an injury after exposure to a dangerous chemical, you should speak with an experienced attorney to understand your legal rights. Toxic tort cases typically require a high degree of both legal and scientific expertise in order to establish a claim for recovery. For questions, contact Broussard, David & Moroux at 888-337-2323(toll-free) or 337-337-2323 (local).