The 52 individuals named as plaintiffs, who make up 18 families, claim that PG&E failed to "make regular and proper inspections and to maintain the safety of the pipeline," which exploded in the Crestmoor Canyon neighborhood and caused a fire that killed eight people and injured scores more.
Jerry Nastari, attorney for the plaintiffs, said today that his clients have suffered physical injuries including severe burns, seen their homes damaged or destroyed, and been left with psychological scars.
"All of these people have sustained significant, ongoing emotional distress," Nastari said.
The lawsuit alleges that the "disaster was entirely preventable" and that "PG&E knew of the pipeline's defective condition and of the extreme danger it presented."
The plaintiffs are seeking unlimited damages from the utility to cover lost wages, damaged property, emotional distress and past and future expenses stemming from the disaster.
PG&E spokeswoman Katie Romans said the company is in the process of reviewing the lawsuit.
PG&E is facing more than a dozen suits filed by victims of the disaster.
