GREELEY, Colo. – A federal jury has awarded a $30 million judgment to an oil and gas worker who was severely injured in a tank explosion in Weld County, Colorado. Steven Straughen, an Idaho native working for BHS Inc., lost a leg in the explosion and will require additional surgeries. The jury awarded $15 million for pain, suffering, and mental anguish, but current Colorado law limits personal injury awards in this category to about $600,000. Straughen may not receive the full amount as a result. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about the outcome and is grateful for the awarded sum, which will aid in his recovery and allow him to spend more time with his children.
Straughen’s attorney, Kurt Zaner, plans to propose a ballot measure known as Initiative 150 to eliminate the state’s cap on pain and suffering awards. The measure has been filed with the Colorado Secretary of State for consideration in the 2024 election. Currently, jurors are not informed about the caps on pain and suffering before deliberating, leading Zaner to argue that this limitation is an injustice.
In addition to the pain and suffering damages, Straughen was awarded $10 million for loss of potential income and $5 million for physical impairment and disfigurement. His wife and well-inspection partner were initially part of the lawsuit but have since dropped their claims or reached a settlement.
The 2019 explosion occurred while Straughen was inspecting a tank supplied by BHS Inc. Investigators found that the company had delivered defective tanks to the site, which allowed oxygen to mix with volatile chemicals and be ignited by a nearby burner. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration determined that Straughen was thrown 27 feet laterally as a result of the blast.
Straughen suffered extensive injuries, including multiple fractures, internal damage, and a severely damaged foot. After years of attempting to rehabilitate the foot, he ultimately had to undergo the amputation of his leg. Straughen’s case may also challenge the application of the current caps on pain and suffering, further challenging the existing system.
As Straughen works towards recovery, he hopes that his case will bring attention to the need for reform and fair compensation for victims of industrial accidents. With the awarded judgment, he can continue his rehabilitation and provide for his family.