Peoples Gas System, Inc. has filed a lawsuit against Southern Underground Industries, Inc., accusing the company of negligence that led to significant damages. The complaint was lodged in the County Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on December 18, 2024. Peoples Gas System is seeking $18,040.37 in damages from Southern Underground Industries.

The case revolves around an incident that occurred on August 6, 2021, when Southern Underground conducted excavation work at or near 7670 62nd Avenue in St. Petersburg, Florida. According to the complaint filed by Peoples Gas System, Southern Underground failed to adhere to the legal requirements outlined in Chapter 556 of the Florida Statutes. Specifically, they neglected to notify Sunshine State One-Call of Florida, Inc., also known as “Sunshine 811,” about their planned excavation activities. This notification is crucial as it ensures safe and careful excavation practices are employed to prevent damage to underground facilities.

Peoples Gas System alleges that Southern Underground’s failure to comply with Section 556.105 resulted in several breaches of duty. These include not using detection equipment or other acceptable means to locate Peoples Gas’ underground facilities and failing to supervise mechanized equipment properly. Additionally, Southern Underground did not conduct its work according to best engineering and industry practices and failed to exercise proper care when working near known underground facilities. As a result of these alleged failures, Peoples Gas claims that their underground natural gas distribution system was damaged.