BP Must Cough Up $100 Million in Toxic Fumes Suit, Jury Says

On Dec. 18, 2009, a jury awarded more than $100 million to 10 workers who accused BP North America Inc. of releasing toxic chemicals into the air at its refinery in Texas City.

The workers were among dozens who were treated for sore throats and dizziness related to chemical exposure in March and April 2009. The plaintiffs' attorneys said the plant had a poor safety record, citing a 2005 explosion that killed 15 people and injured 170, and they contended BP had failed to take adequate steps to remedy the problems.

BP denied releasing any hazardous substances into the plant, but the jury disagreed. It found the energy giant negligent and awarded each plaintiff $10 million in punitive damages, plus between $5,000 and $244,000 apiece for medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.

Garner, et al. v. BP Products North America Inc., No. 3:07-cv-00221

Court: U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Galveston

Plaintiffs' Attorneys: Anthony G. Buzbee, Sean E. O'Rourke and Peter K. Taaffe, The Buzbee Law Firm, Houston

Defense Attorney: James B. Galbraith, McLeod, Alexander, Powell & Apffel, Galveston