2 Frack Equipment Manufacturers Face Lawsuit re WV Pad Explosion

On July 7, 2018, Jeffrey Blaniar was working as a blending operating for Southwestern Energy at a well pad in New Martinsville, WV (in Wetzel County). When Blaniar approached a pump to turn it off, it exploded, causing second-degree burns and breaking several bones. Blaniar's left foot and lower leg eventually had to be amputated. It was a tragic accident to be sure. Blaniar sued Southwestern for negligence as well as the pump manufacturer and hose fitting manufacturer. Last Friday a federal judge ruled the two manufacturers, which had petitioned to have the case against them dropped, must face a potential jury trial to prove their products did not contribute to the accident.

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