Philadelphia Court Upholds $816 Million Verdict Against ExxonMobil in Landmark Benzene Exposure Case
ExxonMobil now faces an $816 million verdict after the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas increased an earlier ruling over claims of cancer linked to benzene exposure. The September decision adds $90.5 million in delay damages to the original $725.5 million awarded by a jury in May. This case highlights the growing trend of litigation targeting corporate accountability for environmental and public health impacts.
The lawsuit centered on a Philadelphia service station mechanic who developed cancer allegedly from benzene exposure in gasoline. Evidence presented included medical records and expert testimonies demonstrating ExxonMobil’s knowledge of benzene’s carcinogenic risks and the company’s failure to adequately warn or protect workers.
ExxonMobil has appealed, arguing that the punitive damages are excessive and claiming compliance with regulatory standards. However, the court affirmed the jury’s decision, emphasizing ExxonMobil’s negligence. “The evidence of ExxonMobil’s disregard for public health is compelling,” Judge Michael Davis stated, highlighting that punitive damages aim to deter future negligence.
The ruling exemplifies increasing corporate scrutiny in environmental cases. Similar lawsuits have emerged, such as a class action against Lululemon for alleged greenwashing and a case against Tyson Foods for misleading climate claims. Legal experts see these rulings as a sign of mounting accountability for corporate environmental practices. As Vermont Law School’s Patrick Parenteau puts it, “When you put the facts and the law in front of a jury, justice happens.”
