Kentucky Tire Builder Files Suit against 11 Companies for Exposure to Benzene, Butadiene

By Jennifer Griffith

Published on June 20, 2007

Among the 11 defendants named in the suit are BP Amoco, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Continental Tire, and Shell Oil.

The plaintiff, Jeffrey Looper, was reportedly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on Dec. 22, 2004. According to Looper, his doctors told him that the disease was caused by exposure to benzene and butadiene.

Looper was employed from 1985 to 1997 as a tire builder and utility worker at General Tire and Rubber Company in Mayfield. During the course of his 12-year employment, Looper claims, he was exposed to benzene and butadiene which he unknowingly inhaled or ingested.

Looper's suit claims that the defendants had a responsibility to protect his health but nevertheless had him handle products containing benzene and butadiene—both highly toxic substances.

Looper is seeking damages in excess of $150,000 for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

His wife Laura is also seeking damages in excess of $50,000 for the loss of her husband's love, affection, care, and companionship.

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