Sale of ‘Hot Fuel’ is Legal, Says Kansas Jury

A federal jury in Kansas City said that the sale of gasoline without temperature adjustment – known as “hot fuel” – is not deceptive and is in accordance with the Kansas Consumer Protection Act.

The Kansas City Star reports that the verdict is a victory for gas retailers QuikTrip, 7-Eleven, and Kum & Go who were named in the lawsuit. Another allegation from the case - whether the practice was “unconscionable” - will be decided later by U.S. District Judge Kathryn Vratil.

Other retailers previously reached settlements in Kansas and other states.

At issue is the fact that at higher temperatures, the per-gallon energy level in gasoline reduces and thus the hot fuel ends up costing consumers $2.3 billion annually, according to the Star.  In regions with hotter temperatures such as California and the Sunbelt states, drivers suffer more losses per gallon.

Approximately 30 class-action personal injury lawsuits that were filed across the country alleging that oil companies and fuel retailers improperly profited from the sale of hot fuel were combined in Judge Vratil’s court to simplify pretrial proceedings, according to the Star.

If you or a loved one has experienced a personal injury, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to find out if a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you.

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