Pipeline Explosion Attorneys

Types of Pipelines

Pipelines play a critical role in the energy infrastructure of the United States. Among the various types, oil and natural gas pipelines are the most common and essential to the country’s energy sector.

Oil Pipelines

Oil pipelines transport crude oil or refined petroleum products from oilfields to refineries and distribution centers. Constructed primarily from steel or plastic, these pipelines vary in size, ranging from a few inches to several feet in diameter. While most pipelines run underground, they surface at key points such as pump stations and valves for maintenance and flow control. One exception is the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, which has an extensive above-ground section.

Natural Gas Pipelines

Natural gas pipelines are responsible for transporting natural gas from production sites to distribution centers, where it is then delivered to homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. Made from carbon steel, these pipelines vary in size from as small as two inches to as large as five feet in diameter. To ensure efficient transport, natural gas pipelines are pressurized to facilitate the movement of gas over long distances. Unlike oil pipelines, natural gas pipelines are commonly used for both residential and industrial purposes, making them an integral part of daily energy consumption.

Transporting Hazardous Materials Through America's Pipeline Network

The United States operates an extensive network of pipelines that transport highly combustible materials, posing significant risks if not properly maintained. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures:

• Approximately 2 million miles of natural gas pipelines crisscross the country.
• There are 321,000 miles of gas transmission and gathering lines.
• An additional 175,000 miles of pipelines carry hazardous liquids.
• Around 114 active liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants contribute to the distribution of volatile materials.

These pipelines transport a wide range of hazardous fuels and gases, including:

These materials are not only flammable but also extremely volatile, requiring stringent safety measures to prevent catastrophic gas explosions. When a gas explosion occurs, it can lead to widespread destruction, igniting fires that burn for hours and causing secondary explosions.

Aging Pipelines: The Growing Risk of Gas Explosions in the U.S.

One major concern is the aging state of America’s pipeline infrastructure. 

While some companies are making efforts to replace deteriorating pipelines, many are not moving fast enough to prevent accidents. As a result, the likelihood of gas explosions continues to increase across the country.

According to one source, the following is true about the nation’s pipelines:

• Nearly half of U.S. pipelines are over 50 years old.
• Older pipelines are often made from materials prone to corrosion and failure.
• More than 2.5 million miles of pipeline are in need of replacement or repair.

These facts make it clear that companies are aware of the risks posed by aging pipelines, and it is their duty to address these issues before gas explosions occur. When they fail to do so, our Texas pipeline accident attorneys at Arnold & Itkin are prepared to hold them accountable and fight for the victims of these preventable disasters.

The Hidden Dangers of Aging Pipelines

While pipelines are often promoted as a safer alternative to transporting hazardous materials by truck, this perspective can overlook the severe risks posed by aging and poorly maintained infrastructure. Over time, corrosion and wear weaken pipeline walls, making catastrophic failures more likely if proper maintenance is neglected.

The consequences of pipeline explosions can include:

Frequency of Gas Pipeline Failures

The United States boasts the largest network of energy pipelines globally, with approximately 72,000 miles of crude oil pipelines—many of which run through Texas due to its extensive oilfields. Other states with significant pipeline infrastructure include Louisiana, Wyoming, Montana, Oklahoma, Illinois, North Dakota, Kansas, and California. When accounting for natural gas lines, the total reaches about 2.5 million miles of pipelines used for energy transportation.

As pipelines age, the likelihood of failures increases. Data suggests that regions with a high concentration of pipelines, such as Texas and Louisiana, experience more incidents. Companies operating these pipelines have a responsibility to prevent safety lapses.

Regulatory Oversight & Safety

Despite federal regulations governing pipeline safety, concerns remain about the adequacy of these standards. The lack of stringent oversight means energy companies must take proactive responsibility for the integrity of their pipeline systems. Prioritizing safety through adequate investment and maintenance is essential to prevent explosions.

Common Causes of Pipeline Explosions

• Improper pipeline installation
• Aging infrastructure like meters, gas lines, joints, and gas mains
• Inadequate maintenance of pipeline systems
• Defective pipelines and safety equipment
• Failure to respond promptly to reports of gas leaks
• Insufficient training for pipeline workers or excavators
• Neglecting to check for existing pipelines before excavation

The Recent History of Deadly Pipeline Explosions

• San Bruno Pipeline Explosion – On September 9, 2010, a natural gas pipeline exploded in San Bruno, California, devastating a quiet neighborhood. The blast was so violent that residents believed it was either a plane crash or an earthquake. Eight people lost their lives in the blast zone. The investigation revealed the explosion was caused by aging infrastructure and faulty welds in the pipeline. Further scrutiny exposed that Pacific Gas & Electric Company, the pipeline’s owner, had illegally diverted $100 million from its safety budget to executive bonuses.
• New London School Explosion – On March 18, 1937, a gas leak from a pipeline led to an explosion at the New London School in Texas, killing nearly 300 students and teachers and injuring over 300 more. The explosion is believed to have been triggered when an electric sander was turned on, sparking the gas leak. 
• El Paso Pipeline Explosion – On August 19, 2000, a pipeline owned by El Paso Natural Gas exploded due to corrosion, claiming the lives of 12 people. The failure to address pipeline corrosion led to this preventable tragedy.

2021 Pipeline Explosion: Collin County Gas Blast Leaves Two Dead

On June 28, 2021, a gas pipeline explosion in Collin County, Texas, claimed the lives of two workers and sent two others to the hospital. The explosion occurred just outside of Farmersville around 3:30 PM. The victims were employed by different companies, with two working as subcontractors for Atmos Energy, the pipeline’s owner, and the other two employed by Bobcat Contracting and Fesco Petroleum Engineering.

The FBI joined the Collin County Sheriff’s Office in investigating the incident, despite the explosion being considered accidental. The FBI’s expertise in post-explosion scenes prompted their involvement. This tragic event came only a few years after a 12-year-old girl lost her life in a similar explosion involving an Atmos Energy pipeline. A subsequent investigation by the NTSB determined that Atmos was responsible for that fatal accident due to their negligence.

The NTSB harshly criticized Atmos for failing to investigate a gas leak that ultimately caused the young girl’s death. In the months leading up to the tragedy, two previous gas-related incidents had occurred in the same area involving Atmos pipelines. Despite these warning signs, the company failed to inspect its pipeline network or evacuate the area. Shockingly, the NTSB discovered that the leak in the Dallas-area pipeline had been ongoing for 23 years, with Atmos’ lack of inspections allowing the issue to persist until it resulted in a deadly explosion.

How Our Pipeline Explosion Lawyers Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a pipeline accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma can take a significant toll on victims and their families. Our Houston pipeline accident attorneys are dedicated to easing this burden by providing comprehensive legal support.

Why Choose Arnold & Itkin?

• Proven Track Record: We've recovered more than $20 billion, holding negligent companies accountable.
• Experienced Team: Our attorneys are experienced in pipeline explosion cases and understand the complexities.
• Client-Centered: We prioritize your needs, ensuring you receive the medical care and support you deserve.
• No Fees Unless We Win: You won't pay any upfront costs—we only get paid if we win for you.

Arnold & Itkin Has a History of Helping Workers & Their Families

When regular people have had their lives turned upside down by a pipeline explosion, we’ve been there to help them. Our pipeline accident attorneys have taken on some of the largest companies in the oil and gas industry, recovering billions of dollars for clients in the process. We never back down from a fight, refuse to accept less than what is fair, and always demand the answers that our clients need to move forward. When an injured person or grieving family comes to us, our goal is to be the best lawyers possible for their situation. This means not only fighting for the best results but also making sure the immediate needs of our clients—such as getting the right medical care—are met.

When regular people have had their lives turned upside down by an explosion, we’ve been there to help them. Our explosion lawyers have taken on some of the largest companies in the oil and gas industry, recovering billions of dollars for clients in the process. We never back down from a fight, refuse to accept less than what is fair, and always demand the answers that our clients need to move forward. When an injured person or grieving family comes to us, our goal is to be the best lawyers possible for their situation. In the past, this has meant not only fighting for the best results, but also making sure the immediate needs of our clients —such as getting the right medical care—are met.

Here’s what one of our clients had to say about how our attorneys helped him:

“I was able to actually witness them in court. They went in there like straight bulldogs and they won...It’s amazing thing to see. I would recommend them to anybody, I mean anybody." - Shawn Thomas

Experience That Matters. Nationwide Representation.

The pipeline explosion attorneys at Arnold & Itkin have the experience and resources required to fight for life-changing results, no matter who we are facing. Our long list of victories is evidence of our commitment to our clients. When BP tried to blame employees for the Deepwater Horizon disaster, we were there to make sure workers were protected. When workers were injured in a refinery fire, we held their employer accountable for $97 million in losses.

Our pipeline accident lawyers help clients throughout Texas, Louisiana, and nationwide, including:

We are proud of these accomplishments because we proved that companies are responsible for the safety of their employees. Arnold & Itkin was founded on the principle of obtaining results for the people who need it the most. People injured in explosions have suffered enough—we won’t stop fighting for their recovery.

Call Our Texas Pipeline Accident Attorneys Today: (888) 493-1629

If you've been hurt in a pipeline accident, it's crucial to act quickly to protect your rights. Evidence can disappear, and statutes of limitations may limit your ability to file a claim. Our Houston pipeline explosion lawyers are ready to investigate your case, determine liability, and fight for the maximum compensation possible.

If you've been hurt in a pipeline accident, call (888) 493-1629. Our Houston pipeline explosion attorneys can review your case and discuss your options with you. If we take your case, you won’t pay any fees unless we win.