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Fracking Lawsuits
Simmons Hanly Conroy fracking lawyers are investigating instances of illnesses, decreased property values and environmental pollution caused by hydraulic fracturing or fracking. Headquartered in Illinois with offices in Missouri, New York and California, our lawyers are positioned to help clients throughout the nation, including those in Illinois and Arkansas. Contact Us today for a free legal consultation.
What is Fracking?
Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is the process of drilling and injecting fluid into the ground at a high pressure in order to fracture shale rocks to release natural gas inside. Fracking fluid is comprised of water, tons of gallons of chemicals and sand.
Up to 600 chemicals are used in fracking fluid, including known carcinogens and toxics. Dangerous chemicals used in fracking activities include:
- Benzene
- Methanol
- Lead
- Uranium
- Mercury
- Ethylene Glycol
- Radium
- Hydrochloric Acid
- Formaldehyde
The fluid is then pumped into the ground through a pipeline at high pressure. When the fluid reaches the end of the well, the high pressure causes the nearby shale rock to crack. This creates fissures in the ground surrounding the well and causes natural gas to flow into the well.
At the same time, the fracking mixture – made with multiple toxic chemicals – can be released into the ground. It then seeps into the surrounding groundwater. Studies have shown that methane concentrations are 17 times higher in drinking wells near fracturing sites than in normal wells.
The fluid is then pumped into the ground through a pipeline at high pressure. When the fluid reaches the end of the well, the high pressure causes the nearby shale rock to crack. This creates fissures in the ground surrounding the well and causes natural gas to flow into the well.
At the same time, the fracking mixture – made with multiple toxic chemicals – can be released into the ground. It then seeps into the surrounding groundwater. Studies have shown that methane concentrations are 17 times higher in drinking wells near fracturing sites than in normal wells.
Types of Hydraulic Fracking Problems
Many property owners throughout the United States have entered into lease agreements that allow natural gas companies to build wells on their property. However, federal law does not require those companies to disclose to landowners the dangers of fracking, like they must to investors or environmental regulators.
The fracking process carries several risks. The use of toxic chemicals has caused people to suffer with water, soil and air contamination as well as other property damage. In addition, people have become ill or injured from exposure to fracking sites and fracking equipment.
Apart from toxic chemical exposure, fracking can cause gas to migrate onto or into people’s property, sometimes causing illness or explosions.
Common environmental problems that can be caused by fracking include the following:
- Poisoned drinking water
- Toxic sludge & waste
- Polluted air
- Mysterious animal deaths
- Industrial disasters
- Explosions
Common Illnesses Related to Fracking:
- Cancer
- Neurological damage
- Sore throats
- Headaches
- Difficulty breathing
Who is at Risk
People who live within the vicinity of drilling of natural gas have made reports of foul smells in their water. Illinois, Missouri, Indiana and Arkansas are just some of the states Simmons Hanly Conroy is investigating cases where hydraulic fracturing may have been linked to contaminated water and air and illnesses.
Common Illnesses Related to Fracking:
People who live within the vicinity of drilling of natural gas have made reports of foul smells in their water. Illinois, Missouri, Indiana and Arkansas are just some of the states Simmons Hanly Conroy is investigating cases where hydraulic fracturing may have been linked to contaminated water and air and illnesses.
Your Legal Rights
Contact a fracking lawyer with your concerns. The lawyers at Simmons Hanly Conroy are experienced in handling toxic lawsuits, in addition to personal injury and environmental claims and can consult with those in Illinois and Arkansas. At the firm, we have a track record of working with clients impacted by toxic exposures. Our firm was built on one principle: to give clients and their families the care and respect they deserve.
Over the years we have seen firsthand the devastation caused by corporate negligence. And we know that while each case is unique, they all have one thing in common: every client is a person whose life has been harmed through no fault of their own.
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Written by:Simmons Hanly ConroyThe Simmons Hanly Conroy Editorial Team consists of journalists, writers and editors who strive to deliver accurate and useful information to families needing legal help. Our team works alongside the firm's attorneys and partners, as well as with medical professionals and other specialists, to keep all information relevant and helpful.