Pittsburgh Fracking Water Pollution Attorneys

Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a relatively new method of extracting natural gas from the Marcellus Shale formation in Pennsylvania. But the detrimental effects of fracking on the environment are already becoming apparent.

In a recent case in the Pittsburgh area, a family sued a mining company claiming their water supply had become polluted due to fracking in the area. The company paid the family $750,000 to settle the case and admitted no fault. This case highlights, however, the dangers of fracking and the impact fracking can have on the health and safety of families throughout Pennsylvania.

Experienced Pittsburgh Water Pollution Lawyers

If you believe your water has been contaminated as a result of fracking, there are options available to you. At Caroselli, Beachler & Coleman, L.L.C., we stand up for the rights of individuals and families who have been injured as a result of fracking water contamination. Since 1972, our attorneys have built a reputation for providing clients with the representation, advocacy and knowledgeable advice they need.

The Hidden Dangers of Fracking and Water Pollution

The process of hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” has revolutionized the energy industry, but it has also introduced significant environmental and public health risks. At the heart of the controversy is the massive injection of “fracking fluid”—a high-pressure cocktail of water, sand, and various chemical additives—deep into the earth to release natural gas. While the industry often highlights the economic benefits, the chemical reality beneath the surface is far more concerning for local communities.

A Toxic Chemical Profile

Many of the substances used in fracking are known hazards. Among these are carcinogens such as acrylonitrile, benzene, and formaldehyde. These are not merely “trace elements”; they are potent chemicals that, even at low levels of exposure, can lead to devastating long-term health consequences, including various forms of cancer, respiratory distress, and neurological impairment. When these chemicals migrate from the drill site into local aquifers, they turn a vital life source into a delivery system for toxins.

The Pathways to Contamination

Water pollution from fracking usually occurs through one of three primary avenues:

• Casing Failures: If the concrete or steel well casing cracks, fracking fluid can leak directly into groundwater.
• Surface Spills: Mishandling of chemicals or wastewater on-site can lead to runoff that enters local streams and wells.
• Improper Waste Disposal: The “flowback” water that returns to the surface is often highly saline and laden with heavy metals, requiring specialized treatment that is not always strictly followed.

Contact Our Experienced Pennsylvania Lawyers About Your Water

To discuss your case and your options with an attorney at our firm, contact our law firm online or call us at 412-391-9860 or call toll free at 866-466-5789. From our office in Pittsburgh, we offer free initial consultations