A new class action settlement has been reached in the state of Pennsylvania, benefiting hundreds of residents affected by a chemical spill that contaminated important water sources, generating additional expenses for families in the impacted areas.
This $2.7 million class action settlement seeks to resolve the allegations related to the chemical spill that occurred in 2023, avoiding a lengthy and expensive trial for the Pennsylvania-based company Altuglas.
Environmental Disaster in Bristol, Pennsylvania
The environmental disaster took place in 2023, when an Altuglas chemical plant, located in the city of Bristol, Pennsylvania, poured thousands of gallons of a latex emulsion solution into a tributary of the Delaware River.
The class action lawsuit claims that this decision contaminated drinking water and caused economic losses to local homes and businesses.
case number 240100060
Class Action Lawsuit Against Altuglas
Altuglas, a Trinseo brand, produces polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) sheets and blocks and is the defendant company in this class action. Although Altuglas did not admit liability, he agreed to pay $2.7 million to settle the lawsuits.
Those affected can receive a base payment between $25 and $50 without the need for documentation, simply by proving that they resided in the affected area and suffered economic losses.
Class Action Settlement Payments for Documented Losses
Those with losses supported by evidentiary documents will be able to receive additional payments that cover expenses such as the purchase of bottled water, transportation, and loss of business income.
These payments will be proportional to the reported losses, ensuring fair compensation for those affected. To claim these payments, applicants must submit invoices, receipts, check stubs, card statements, expense reports, income statements and other financial documents proving the economic losses.
Postal Codes Included and Important Dates
This agreement is intended for residents and businesses located in the area affected by the spill between March 24 and March 30, 2023. The postcodes involved are: 19102, 19103, 19106, 19107, 19109, 19111, 19112, 19114, 19115, 19116, 19119, 19120, 19121, 19122, 19123, 19124, 19125, 19126, 19128, 19129, 19130, 19132, 19133, 19134, 19135, 19136, 19137, 19138, 19140, 19141, 19144, 19145, 19146, 19147, 19148, 19149, 19152 and 19154.
These are the important dates to consider:
- Deadline for exclusion and objection: July 17, 2024.
- Final approval hearing: September 23, 2024.
- Deadline for submitting claims: August 16, 2024.
Filing as a Plaintiff in the Class Action Lawsuit
To receive the payments, those affected must submit a valid claim form by August 16, 2024. The filing of a claim in a class action lawsuit is an act performed under penalty of perjury, which implies a commitment to veracity. It is important that only those truly affected submit claims, as doing so improperly could harm others who did suffer the consequences of the chemical spill.
Impact of the Spill and Altuglas’ Liability
The impact of the chemical spill was significant, affecting both public health and the local economy. Families and businesses in the aforementioned zip codes faced unexpected expenses and, in some cases, income losses due to drinking water contamination.
Remember that joining a class action lawsuit is an act that is done under penalty of perjury, which commits you to always tell the truth. If you were not impacted by this event, it is better not to file a claim because it could affect other people who were affected.
Altuglas is a well-known brand in the field of polymers, specializing in the production of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) sheets and blocks. It is a subsidiary of Trinseo, a global company that offers solutions in advanced materials and plastics.
The Main Product of Altuglas
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), one of the main products of this factory, also known as acrylic, is a thermoplastic polymer that is used as a lightweight and resistant alternative to glass. It is characterized by its high transparency, impact and UV resistance, which makes it ideal for applications where optical clarity and durability are required.
PMMA is easy to mold and manufacture, allowing it to be used in a wide variety of products, from windows and screens to signs and medical devices. Its ability to maintain dimensional stability and withstand adverse environmental conditions makes it a preferred material in many industries.
The official website of the class action settlement is currently accepting filings from potential plaintiffs.
