Representatives from BP Products North America Inc. (BP) agreed to pay $7 million in damages, costs and fees in a class action lawsuit over contaminated gasoline recalled in August 2012. The lawsuit was filed after BP recalled approximately 4.7 million gallons of contaminated gasoline, which it distributed from its Whiting, Indiana refinery to more than 575 retail outlets in Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Ohio.
Thousands of consumers who purchased the contaminated gasoline experienced issues ranging from engine problems to damage to fuel systems of vehicles and gasoline-powered engines. Class counsel included Will Riley of Price Waicukauski & Riley, LLC and Irwin B. Levin of Cohen & Malad, LLP. Notice to the affected consumers will issue shortly.
BP identified a “process upset” as the source of the gasoline contaminant. It stated that higher than normal levels of a hydrocarbon polymer passed through the refinery unit, contaminating the gas that was distributed to the affected retail outlets.
“Finally, through the court system, has BP agreed to fully and fairly compensate consumers who bought their adulterated product. It’s been a long road but we’re pleased with the result,” stated Irwin Levin of Cohen & Malad, LLP.
Will Riley of Price Waicukauski & Riley, LLC added “I am pleased that the legal system was able to set this situation right for Hoosiers, and those in the surrounding states.”