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Email Us NowOn January 24, 2020, around 4:24 a.m., there was a massive explosion at the Watson Grinding & Manufacturing plant in northwest Houston. The explosion occurred in the 4500 block of Gessner Road. The blast from the explosion could be felt for miles. Hundreds of homes and structures close to the plant were damaged or destroyed by the explosion and/or debris. Two individuals were killed at the explosion site. A resident in a home nearby may be a third fatality of the plant explosion.
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If you believe that you sustained an injury or suffered property damage and loss because of the Watson Grinding explosion, contact The Alfred Firm to speak with a Houston industrial explosion attorney. Our law firm is handling claims related to the Watson Grinding explosion.
Call 713-489-1875 now to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Watson Grinding explosion attorney in Houston.
What Caused The Watson Grinding and Manufacturing Explosion?
It is believed that an electrical spark was the cause of the early-morning explosion at Watson Grinding and Manufacturing. A preliminary investigation determined that propylene leaked from one of the tanks at the facility. A spark ignited the propylene, causing the massive industrial explosion. The matter is still under investigation.
Watson Grinding Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Relief
In early February 2020, Watson Grinding filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. It also announced that it would be laying off 90 employees. The bankruptcy filing came just after Harris County filed a lawsuit against the company. In the lawsuit, Harris County alleges that the 2,000-gallon propylene tank violated emissions laws and air pollution laws.
Unfortunately, the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing complicates the injury claims process for hundreds of victims who were either injured or sustained significant property damage because of the blast.
A bankruptcy filing places an automatic stay on actions by individuals seeking compensation for damages caused by the explosion. However, the filing only places a stay on actions against Watson Grinding. Watson’s Chapter 11 filing does not protect parties who may have liability for the explosion that did not file for bankruptcy relief.
However, victims still have rights. Anyone who sustained physical injuries, damage to property, or other damages because of the Watson Grinding explosion should consult with an attorney immediately. There will be deadlines within the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case that could impact a person’s ability to recover compensation for injuries. The Chapter 11 bankruptcy process is complicated. Having an attorney who understands industrial explosion claims and Chapter 11 bankruptcy is essential.
Exposure to Propylene Gas
Short-term exposure to propylene gas can cause dizziness and lightheadedness. Some individuals may experience vomiting and nausea after short-term exposure to the gas. Death may occur from lack of oxygen if you breathe in propylene gas. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience symptoms.
Long-term risks from exposure to propylene gas can cause liver damage, nervous system damage, and heart irregularities. Individuals should consult their physician if they are concerned about health risks from being exposed to propylene gas after the Watson Grinding explosion.
What Should I Do If I Was Injured By the Watson Grinding Explosion?
Contact our Watson Grinding explosion lawyers in Houston immediately. Do not wait to see what happens with the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case or other injury claims.
You need an attorney who understands the process to protect your best interests and your legal right to recover compensation for your injuries and losses. Without a personal injury attorney following the case for you and filing the necessary documents to protect your claim, you could miss a deadline that results in your claim being denied permanently.
Contact The Alfred Firm For a Free Case Review
Contact our law firm now calling 713-489-1875 to schedule your free consultation with one of our Houston industrial explosion attorneys. Get answers to your questions and learn how you can protect your right to fair compensation for your losses and damages.