Toxic Spill in Commerce City – Workers Injured?
Workers’ compensation may be payable to workers from the recent Suncor refinery spill in Commerce City, CO. Groundwater in Sand Creek near the South Platte River was found to be toxic with high levels of Benzene.
This is especially dangerous as the South Platte River is a major drinking source for the cities of Thornton and Aurora. The spill may have started a year ago, but news sources like Channel 4, were first told it started in late November. Clean up efforts are underway, but in late December the benzene levels in Sand Creek were at 670 parts per billion, 134 times the national drinking standard. The drinking water at the plant also showed high levels of benzene, which can cause serious problems for the workers.
If a worker is exposed to a hazardous material in the course and scope of his/her employment, resulting “injuries”, including cancer and other diseases, may be compensable and entitle the worker to benefits under the Workers’ Compensation Act if the worker can prove that the “injury” was caused by his/her job. In these situations, it is very important to contact an attorney immediately as these cases can be very complicated.
The Sawaya Law Firm is Denver’s personal injury law firm. With over 40 years of experience and a compassionate team prepared to listen to your story, The Sawaya Law Firm is here to help. Contact us anytime.
