BP Refinery Blast: Attorney says quick settlements help BP

10 June 2005 23:09  [Source: ICIS news]

HOUSTON (CNI)--BP’s efforts to quickly settle civil claims by injured workers and family members of those killed in the 23 March Texas City, Texas refinery explosion will probably benefit the company as well as the claimants, an attorney said Friday.

 

Houston attorney Terry Bryant, who represents 11 injured workers, said he was “pleasantly surprised” to learn that BP has made offers to his clients. “I think it is a very hopeful sign - hopefully it is a company trying to take responsibility for its action.”

 

The explosion in the refinery’s isomerisation unit killed 15 contract workers and injured 170 others.

 

Bryant said some of his clients are still being treated for their injuries. He said they will require a “good prognosis” regarding their future medical needs before offers can be finalised.

 

BP has “pretty much conceded” liability in the explosion, so now the parties must determine the costs related to the workers’ injuries, Bryant said. He said he believes BP is “optimistic these cases can be resolved sooner than later.”

 

Efforts to quickly settle the cases will likely benefit BP shareholders, Bryant said. Drawn-out court cases could ultimately cost BP more money, he said.

 

The expenses associated with the settlements are “probably a blip on the radar screen” for a company as large as BP, Bryant added.

 

BP has declined to discuss the settlement offers

By: Brian Ford
+1 713 525 2653

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