PG&E Workers Performing Hydrostatic Testing On Calistoga Gas Line Injured In Explosion
CALISTOGA, CALIFORNIA (April 3, 2022) – Two Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) workers were injured in a Calistoga gas line explosion while performing hydrostatic testing.
Napa County officials are saying that the accident took place around 4:40 p.m. on Friday. The two PG&E workers were performing hydrostatic testing on a gas line when there was a sudden explosion.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the Calistoga gas line explosion in order to help both of the victims. The PG&E workers were taken to the hospital in order to receive treatment.
A full investigation into the Calistoga gas line explosion accident remains ongoing.
Liability In Napa County Gas Line Explosions
Pipeline explosion accidents are far more common than many people may realize. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, “on average, a pipeline catches fire every 4 days and results in an explosion every 11 days, an injury every 5 days, and a fatality every 26 days.” Natural gas distribution lines account for most of the injuries and deaths. There are a number of steps that can be taken in order to prevent pipeline explosions.
- Pipelines should have markers that alert others of lines that are buried.
- Pipelines should be regularly checked for leaks, corrosion or damage.
- The pressure inside pipelines should be monitored.
- Gas detectors around the lines should be installed.
Any worker that is injured in an accident may have legal recourse through a worker’s compensation claim. Worker’s compensation in California is a no-fault insurance scheme. There is no need for an injured worker to demonstrate that anyone was injured so that they are able to receive benefits. Workers should let their employers know as early as possible that they were injured on the job. An injured worker should file an Application for An Adjudication of Claim.
If an entity separate from a worker’s employer contributed to an accident, they could be held to account through a civil claim. For example, the company responsible for laying a pipeline could be liable if a worker is injured in an explosion. They may have failed to place markers to alert workers where the pipeline is located. They may have failed to properly maintained the pipeline. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a gas line explosion.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Work records should be examined.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- A thorough, independent investigation should be conducted.
Any worker that is injured in a gas line explosion may have legal recourse through a civil claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Sadly, though, pipeline companies will fight hard to deny liability if any worker is injured on the job. A personal injury attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Napa County Gas Line Explosion
We at TorkLaw extend our best wishes to the PG&E workers injured in this Calistoga gas line explosion. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what happened. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other accidents like this.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a Calistoga gas line explosion? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims get the medical and financial support that they need in order to recover. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
