Locks Law Firm Achieves Landmark Verdict Against ExxonMobil for Benzene Exposure Linked to Cancer
Locks Law Firm, a prominent name in mass tort litigation, has recently made headlines with a groundbreaking verdict of $725.5 million against ExxonMobil. This landmark decision is a significant step in the ongoing battle against the carcinogenic effects of benzene, a known additive in gasoline, following a recent study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The IARC’s report, released in March 2025, confirmed what many health experts have long suspected: exposure to automotive gasoline is linked to several types of cancer, with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and bladder cancer topping the list. This comprehensive study was conducted by a panel of 20 scientists from 16 different countries who scrutinized decades of research regarding the health implications of gasoline exposure, particularly focusing on individuals working in high-risk environments.
Andrew DuPont, a Senior Partner at Locks Law Firm, expressed satisfaction with the verdict, noting its potential impact not just on the legal landscape but on public awareness. "The majority of the public is unaware of the daily risks associated with gasoline exposure, especially those working in the automotive industry, such as mechanics and gas station attendants," he stated. "We have historically won cases that reveal the dangers these workers face, and this recent victory shines a spotlight on a hidden public health crisis."
The verdict arises from a case involving a gasoline station attendant who developed AML after years of exposure to gasoline vapors while on the job. The case not only highlighted the personal tragedy of individuals affected by benzene but also brought to light the deep-rooted issues of corporate negligence and inadequate safety measures within the oil industry.
Despite being a common knowledge among those in the industry, alarming statistics indicate that the general public is largely ignorant of the risks presented by long-term exposure to gasoline vapors. The report elaborated on how workers exposed to gasoline fumes, such as gas station employees and automotive mechanics, face a significantly elevated risk of developing serious health conditions. Additionally, benzene’s hazards can extend beyond the workplace, affecting nearby communities through air pollution and contaminated groundwater from gasoline spills.
Historically, the truth about gasoline’s dangers has often been obscured, primarily due to the powerful interests of the oil industry. As noted in the findings from the IARC, it was known as early as the 1950s that gasoline exposure carried significant health risks, yet this information remained largely suppressed.
"The new findings from the IARC represent a pivotal moment in advocating for public safety and health awareness," DuPont declared. He emphasized the urgent need for a cultural shift in recognizing benzene as a potential household threat akin to asbestos, which is now synonymous with health risks due to prolonged exposure in various industries.
Locks Law Firm’s history of taking on tremendous challenges is notable; it has handled some of the most significant cases in American legal history, including those revolving around asbestos and Agent Orange. In more recent years, they have distinguished themselves by their commitment to representing former NFL players in concussion-related lawsuits, further solidifying their reputation as leaders in mass tort litigation.
With offices strategically located in Philadelphia, New York City, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, Locks Law Firm specializes in trial advocacy—a distinctive skill in today’s legal environment. Their efforts aim to secure justice for families suffering from corporate negligence and to propel critical discussions about public health and safety.
In conclusion, the achievements of Locks Law Firm in the benzene litigation arena not only represent a significant legal victory but also serve as a vital reminder of the ongoing struggle against corporate malpractice. As the firm continues to advocate for those impacted by hazardous exposure, heightened public awareness and safety regulations may soon follow, potentially preventing future cases and safeguarding public health. For more information on their invaluable work, visit www.lockslaw.com.