The first trial stemming from the fatal explosion in 2005 at the BP refinery in Texas City kicks off next week in Galveston, Texas, but the verdict in the suit won’t set a market rate for settlements, which is what typically happens in mass tort suits.
BP already has negotiated settlements with more than 1,000 people who claim injury from the explosion on March 23, 2005, that killed 15, injured at least 180 on the refinery site, and allegedly caused personal injuries or property damage to hundreds in the area. The British company has set aside $1.6 billion to pay claims.
