Most of us probably don’t give much thought to where our heating oil or the gasoline we buy is stored, or where energy companies keep their fuel. The problem is, these and many other hazardous substances are stored in underground tank systems at or just around the corner from our homes, schools and workplaces. These tanks are dangerous because corrosion, improper maintenance and faulty installation can lead to groundwater and soil contamination, inhalation risks and the potential for fire and explosion. The known carcinogen benzene, for example, commonly seeps into drinking water and poses inhalation dangers.

Frighteningly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2008 reported that there are approximately 25,000 federally regulated, active underground storage tanks (USTs) in Pennsylvania, and more than 16,400 of the same in New Jersey. Pennsylvania also houses more than 61,500 closed tanks, while nearly 57,200 closed tanks sit in New Jersey. These two states have a history of more than 14,500 and more than 10,000 confirmed releases, respectively, of hazardous substances into the environment. Each has a backlog of more than 4,100 sites that require cleanup according to federal law.

Under federal law, it is the states that hold primary responsibility for cleaning up and maintaining federally regulated UST sites. Additionally, states may regulate USTs that are not affected by federal law, such as certain farm and residential tanks, septic tanks and storm water basins, overfill tanks and those tanks that service the premises on which they are located. Examples of these tanks might include those found at a manufacturing facility, a drycleaner’s or those situated on commercial properties.

When many suffer personal injury or property damage as a result of UST leaks, they may join together to file a class action lawsuit to seek compensation. The experienced class action lawyers of Feldman Shepherd are well-versed in UST claims. Our trial lawyers handle each class action lawsuit as a special and unique case. Drawing on an impressive depth and breadth of knowledge, we have obtained substantial verdicts and settlements in state and federal courts.

At Feldman Shepherd, we are committed to helping our clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey secure all of the compensation to which they may be entitled. We strive to obtain the best possible recovery as expeditiously as possible, and are here to serve you with hard work, attention to detail and a caring approach tailored to your individual needs. If we may be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us today.