Defective Pipeline Parts

Defects in valves, gaskets, and other pipeline parts can contribute to leaks, fires, and explosions. If these issues or similar ones led to an oil or gas pipeline accident in which you were injured, now is the time to ask for legal help. 

Meet with pipeline explosion accident attorneys who will prioritize your case. Depending on the situation, your lawyer may advise you to sue anyone responsible for your defective pipeline part accident and injuries. 

Defective Pipeline Parts That You Need to Know About

Oil and gas pipeline parts can crack, corrode, or break, increasing the likelihood of failure. Pipeline parts that can sometimes malfunction include:

• Pipes and tubes: Uneven thickness or weak spots can impact the performance and structural integrity of pipes and tubes. 
• Welds: The joints where pipe sections meet are prone to cracking if the metal cools too fast or internal stress is too high.
• Valves: Faulty valves can leak or fail to control the flow of oil and gas as intended. 
• Gaskets and fasteners: If seals or bolts are worn down or defective, gas or liquid has the potential to escape at the connection points. 

Explosion accident lawyers know how difficult it can be to prove that you were injured in an accident due to defects involving any of these pipeline parts or others. They can prepare an argument specific to the facts of your case designed to show negligence. 

Types of Pipeline Part Defects and Damage

It can be incredibly challenging to identify a pipeline part defect. Types of pipeline part defects and damage that sometimes go undetected include:

• Manufacturing and material defects and damage: Issues can develop during the steel production or pipe-forming process.
• Corrosion: Rust or chemical degradation can thin metal pipe walls over time. 
• Mechanical damage: Shifting soil, heavy machinery, or excavation strikes can cause gouges, dents, and cracks in pipelines. 

In the aftermath of an accident in which you suffer injuries due to a pipeline part defect, speak with an attorney who has relevant case experience. Your lawyer can detail your legal options and, if warranted, represent you in a claim or lawsuit against any liable parties. 

How to Protect Against Pipeline Part Defects

Regular inspections and smart pigging tools are often used to detect pipeline part defects. 

In addition, using alloys or steels based on the operational environment and internal media can minimize the risk of pipeline part failure. 

A finite element analysis can also be used during the design process to evaluate stress concentrations at welds and bends. 

Of course, even if appropriate measures are taken to design and construct pipeline parts safely and effectively, defects can still happen, and these can result in accidents. 

An attorney can evaluate such incidents and explain whether those harmed can pursue compensation from liable parties through claims and lawsuits. 

Can You Sue Because a Pipeline Part Was Defective?

If you are injured because of a defective pipeline part, you may have a case to sue any responsible parties for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other economic and non-economic damages. 

Per Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is typically two years, with certain exceptions. 

Explosion accident lawyers can teach you about the statute of limitations that applies to your case. If you decide to sue, your attorney can help you file your lawsuit and guide you through the legal process.