McNicholas & McNicholas Files Lawsuits Against SoCal Gas
By Lawdragon News | December 22, 2015 | Press Releases
LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles-based plaintiff’s trial law firm, McNicholas & McNicholas, filed three lawsuits against Southern California Gas Company (SoCal Gas) and Sempra Energy on behalf of the Tan family, Martinov family, and Karcauskas familiy for the health issues allegedly caused by the toxic gas leak in the Porter Ranch neighborhood in California. Other cases are currently under review.
On October 23, 2015, SoCal Gas and Sempra Energy reported to government regulatory agencies that Aliso Canyon – one of the largest natural gas storage fields in the United States – was leaking noxious odors, hazardous gases, chemicals pollutants, and contaminants due to a massive well failure and blowout. However, SoCal Gas failed to inform residents of neighboring communities of the disastrous gas leak in a timely manner, putting the health and well-being of thousands of families in jeopardy. The lawsuits allege negligence, strict liability of ultra-hazardous activity, private nuisance, inverse condemnation and trespass.
“SoCal Gas did not maintain their facility properly, leading to issues involving the health and safety of residents and the community at large,” says lead attorney Matthew McNicholas. “They created the conditions allowing the well to fail, causing children and families to suffer.”
Tan Family. The Tan family alleges that they were regularly exposed to the toxic gases permeating the Porter Ranch community, experiencing the putrid smell of mercaptans inside and outside of their home. In addition, the consistent exposure to hazardous gas has put their children’s health at risk, since their school is located dangerously close to the Aliso Canyon Facility. They are being relocated.
Martinov Family. The Martinov family alleges that their consistent exposure to these dangerous chemicals and contaminants have caused anxiety, panic attacks, depression and other health concerns for the members of the household. The family has been forced to relocate due to the health and safety concerns.
Karcauskas Family. The Karcauskas family alleges they have suffered personal and property injuries including, polluted land and air in and around their property; diminution in the value of their property; adverse health effects to each family member, such as dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, headaches, nose bleeds, paleness, rashes and vomiting; and more.
Plaintiffs are seeking punitive damages and demanding a jury by trial.
