Discussions about earthquake risk usually focus on California. After all, California lies directly on a tectonic fault line. Earthquakes there can be devastating, and building construction largely reflects the risk of an earthquake.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable uptick in the number of earthquakes reported around Texas. Specifically, there has been a marked increase in the number of earthquakes attributed to human activity. Researchers have started to connect earthquakes across Texas with oil and gas extraction efforts.
Some researchers point to fracking as a source of seismic activity in Texas. Those negatively affected by fracking may be able to seek compensation after their incident.
How can fracking cause earthquakes?
There are two main ways in which fracking may contribute to increased seismic activity. The first has to do with the removal of oil and gas deposits from underground. Even standard extraction systems that do not involve fracking could potentially destabilize parts of the Earth’s crust and increase the risk of an earthquake occurring.
Fracking has a higher degree of earthquake risk than other extraction activities, in part because of how the process utilizes water. Fracking involves pumping water underground during the extraction process. Most companies then reinsert the contaminated fracking water into underground storage points. Doing so can cause changes that destabilize the ground and increase the possibility of an earthquake occurring.
Homeowners can seek compensation for their losses
An earthquake doesn’t need to demolish a home to cause losses. Even low-grade earthquakes can cause substantial property damage and injury. People may have medical bills and lost wages.
They may also need to repair their homes. While structures may not fail, they can sustain massive damage. People may need to repair their roofs, replace their windows and reinforce their foundations.
Other times, personal property might sustain massive damage during a fracking-related earthquake. Some people may be able to file a homeowner’s insurance claim after fracking causes an earthquake that produces financial losses.
Connecting recent losses to fracking is the first step in the process of pursuing compensation. Seeking legal guidance may help those struggling with the financial consequences of a recent earthquake evaluate the situation, review their insurance policies and obtain the financial support they require.