Explosion Injury Attorneys Serving Clients Nationwide
The explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson can help if you or a family member were harmed due to an explosion caused by another party’s negligence. Determining liability and proving fault in explosion accident cases can be difficult; an experienced attorney understands the complexities of these cases and can help you pursue the maximum compensation to which you may be entitled under the law.
Burg Simpson has obtained more than $2 billion in damages for personal injury clients. We have the knowledge, skill, and resources to handle claims involving explosion accidents.
Contact Burg Simpson today online or at 888-895-2080 for a FREE case evaluation. Our explosion accident attorneys serve clients nationwide, with offices located in Arizona and Colorado.
Do I Need an Explosion Accident Lawyer?
More than 47% of households in the United States rely on natural gas as a heat source and approximately 36% of American households depend on electricity for heat. Although a vast majority of Americans use gas to heat homes, cook food, heat water, and dry clothes, they rarely consider the dangers associated with natural gas when using it in their everyday lives.
An undetected gas leak can cause a catastrophic explosion that no one expects. These explosions can destroy the property where the leak occurred as well as surrounding properties. Home explosions result in serious, life-altering injuries and can cause the death of one or multiple victims. Those who live through home explosions can be left with disfiguring injuries, traumatic brain injuries, limb loss, and more. Survivors of serious explosions may also suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Home explosions that arise from some form of negligence are on the rise at an alarming rate across the United States. Negligence on the part of gas companies, construction companies, property owners, or product manufacturers needs to be established so that all responsible parties can be held accountable for their part in the home explosion.
Unfortunately, many victims of explosions are unaware of the legal options available to them. If you or someone you love was injured in a propane or natural gas explosion it is important to know that you have rights. You may be entitled to substantial compensation for your injuries and the financial losses you incurred as a result of the explosion, as well as your pain and suffering. It’s crucial that you take a proactive stand to ensure your legal rights are protected. Consulting with an experienced explosion attorney at Burg Simpson will ensure that you are in the best position possible to successfully obtain the maximum recovery available to you under the law.
The explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson have more than four decades of experience fighting on behalf of explosion victims throughout the United States. Our firm has the knowledge, experience, and resources needed to successfully handle even the most complex explosion claims.
You have a limited time to act, so it is crucial to contact our office right away. If you were injured in an explosion, call our explosion attorneys now to schedule a FREE case evaluation. During your complimentary case review, we will listen to your story, assess the merits of your claim, and explain your rights and legal options.
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What Does An Explosion Accident Lawyer Do?
Working with a skilled, knowledgeable, and effective legal team can help to ensure you are able to maximize your recovery after being harmed. The explosion attorneys at Burg Simpson provide an array of services for our clients to ensure they are in the best position possible to recover the full and fair amount of compensation to which they are entitled.
When you choose the explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson, we will:
- Investigate the explosion to determine its cause
- Gather evidence from the scene of the incident
- Speak with witnesses and gather statements to support your claim
- Investigate the property owner where the explosion occurred
- Investigate the company whose product exploded
- Gather medical reports and damage statements to determine the full value of your claim
- Work with financial experts who can fully calculate lost wages and long-term earnings
- File all documents and evidence properly and in a timely manner
- Ensure the accuracy of statements, evidence, and documents provided to the court
- Aggressively negotiate full and fair compensation to ensure you are in the best position possible to move forward
- Provide responsive and effective legal representation in court whenever we are unable to come to a settlement agreement with at-fault parties
The knowledgeable legal team at Burg Simpson believes that each client deserves justice after being harmed in a careless and senseless explosion. This drives our team to provide the most effective legal representation to our clients. Additionally, our explosion attorneys maintain open and consistent communication with our clients so they are aware of what is happening every step of the way.
Our explosion accident lawyers remain available to answer all questions our clients have about their cases and we strive to keep victims aware of what is happening throughout the duration of their legal claim. If you have been injured in an explosion, contact our law firm at your earliest convenience to see how we can help you.
Common Types of Explosion Accidents
Entire neighborhoods can be destroyed when homes and gas lines explode, causing devastating losses for all families who are affected. Anytime gas leaks in a space that is enclosed, an explosion can occur. As gas leaks, it mixes with the air which causes pressure to build up. When the pressure builds up and reaches a high enough level, almost anything can trigger it to cause an explosion. That means a single flame or spark like static electricity can ignite a devastating explosion that ends up causing a scorching fire.
The most common types of home explosions include:
Propane Explosion Accidents
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that nearly 600 propane explosions occur every year. Propane is used to generate flames and power. When handled properly, propane can be very safe. However, accidents caused by leaks and negligence can have catastrophic consequences.
Propane explosions can be caused by negligence on the part of:
- Property owners who leave valves open, fail to check connections, store tanks indoors or under extreme heat, etc.
- Manufacturers that prepare or fill tanks incorrectly, install faulty safety devices, fail to provide proper labels, fail to apply ethyl mercaptan (a chemical odorant that smells like rotting eggs and warns of a leak), etc.
- Contractors who damage tanks, fail to properly inspect tanks and connections, fail to install tanks correctly, etc.
Propane is an extremely flammable gas. When propane explosions occur, they can instantly engulf victims in flames or set entire homes on fire within minutes.
Natural Gas Explosion Accidents
Leaking gas from pipelines and tanks can cause catastrophic explosions. Because gas is so hazardous, it is critical that appliances, devices, and components are installed properly and vigilantly maintained. However, serious gas explosions can still occur when defective or substandard products are made and sold by negligent manufacturers.
Multiple parties can potentially be held liable for gas explosions, such as:
- Utility companies
- Appliance and equipment manufacturers
- Distributors
- Contractors, repair professionals, or installation professionals
- Third-party companies
Any spark or flame in the presence of a leak could trigger an explosion. Most gas leaks result from malfunctioning tanks, defective equipment, damaged lines, incorrectly installed appliances, and improper use of gases.
Methane Explosion Accidents
Methane is a colorless, odorless, and highly flammable gas composed of carbon and hydrogen. Methane is the main component of natural gas. It is produced by the breakdown of organic matter and is also a byproduct of human activities such as agriculture and the extraction of coal, oil, and natural gas.
Methane explosions occur when the gas accumulates and comes into contact with an ignition source, such as a spark or flame. The sudden release of energy from the ignition causes a rapid increase in pressure and temperature, which can result in an explosion. This can be caused by leaks in gas pipelines or storage facilities, or by improper ventilation in underground mines where methane is present.
Butane Explosion Accidents
Like methane, butane is also a colorless, odorless, flammable gas that is commonly used as fuel for heating and cooking appliances. It is a common component in many consumer products such as lighters and portable stoves.
Butane explosions can happen any time gas gathers and meets an ignition source such as a flame or spark. These explosions can result from faulty equipment, improper use, or leaks in gas containers or lines.
What Causes Explosions In Buildings?
If any of the above gases leak into your home for any reason, you may be subject to a home explosion. Here are some of the most common causes of explosions in a home or office building:
- Tanks that hold fuel placed near flammable material
- Hoses or tanks that are leaking
- Gas appliances leaks
- Gas lines or propane lines that were improperly installed
- Defective control valves, meters, pipes, regulators
- Old and aging pipes and/or gas lines
- Rupturing a gas line while digging
- Equipment improperly reconnected by workers
- Equipment left on resulting in an explosion
Every explosion is unique, and explosion accident cases are often very complicated. It can be difficult to point to one single thing that caused an explosion. More often than not, there are multiple small issues or defects that end up leading to a much larger, and sometimes fatal, explosion. Oftentimes, there is more than one party responsible when an explosion occurs.
Our explosion accident lawyers will work to determine the cause of the explosion and build a strong case on your behalf. We will thoroughly investigate the facts surrounding your situation and determine the party or parties responsible for your injuries.
Where Do Explosion Accidents Happen?
Although explosion accidents can happen at any location and at any time, there are various locations that are more prone to their occurrences. Some of the most common locations of explosions that the explosion attorneys at Burg Simpson investigate include:
Construction Sites
Construction sites can be very dangerous areas. Explosions on construction sites can occur due to a number of reasons, including the release of flammable or explosive gases, such as natural gas or propane, electrical malfunctions, improper handling of blasting or demolition equipment, or accidental ignition of flammable materials. Factors like human error, lack of proper safety protocols, or equipment malfunction can contribute to these incidents.
Chemical Plant Explosions
There are numerous reasons why chemical plants are more common locations for explosion accidents. The majority of explosions at these locations occur due to incorrect storage practices, inadequate maintenance, the improper handling of flammable objects, non-compliance with federal and state laws, defective equipment, and inadequate training.
Plant and Refinery Explosions
Many plant and refinery explosions occur due to unseen corrosion, improper maintenance, improperly cared for boilers, well blowouts, unsafe practices and procedures, and inadequate training. These incidents are truly devastating and often result in burns, fires, and massive property damage.
Land Rig Explosions
Although not as common as plant explosions, land rig explosions continue to happen throughout the United States. In most instances, land rig explosions occur as a result of gas truck accidents and pipeline transport errors. Failing to maintain the equipment and property adequately can also lead to life-changing explosions.
Fertilizer Plant Explosions
Today, the majority of synthetic fertilizers are composed of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These substances, when combined with others, can lead to violent explosions. In some cases, inadequate training and improper storage methods can lead to these incidents.
Oil Rig Explosions
Working with oil rigs presents unique challenges that most people in the United States fail to recognize. There are extensive risks associated with using heavy machinery while working with volatile substances. When oil rig explosions occur, many companies try to shift the blame to the victim. For this reason, it is crucial that you seek legal guidance from a skilled explosion injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure your legal rights are protected.
Pipeline Explosions
Gas and oil pipeline explosions can result in mass casualties and billions of dollars in property damage. These incidents are truly catastrophic and can take days to clear up. Regrettably, when pipelines explode, it can lead to extensive property damage, toxic exposure, burn injuries, severe blunt force trauma, and even death.
If you have been injured as a result of an explosion, or your loved one lost their life, it is crucial that you seek legal guidance as soon as possible. You may be entitled to significant compensation to help you move forward. At Burg Simpson, we understand the many hardships you and your family may be facing after a serious injury. Our explosion accident lawyers will work diligently to maximize your compensation.
What Are the Most Common Injuries Sustained By Explosion Victims
People who are harmed in explosions often endure severe and catastrophic injuries. Quite often, they are rushed to the hospital and have to undergo emergency surgery. Due to the extent of injuries, many victims are placed into comas to help their bodies heal without having to endure the overwhelming pain associated with them. Not every explosion results in severe burn injuries for victims. Rather, there are a variety of life-altering injuries that victims can endure.
Some of the most common injuries sustained by explosion victims in the United States include:
- Blast lung
- Blunt force trauma
- Burn injuries
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Traumatic amputation
- Internal organs ruptured/bleeding
- Air embolization
- Abdominal/hollow viscus injuries
- Pulmonary contusions
- Asthma and COPD
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
- Neck and back injuries
- Internal organ damage (lung damage due to chemical exposure)
- Hearing loss: inner ear ruptures
- Eye Ruptures/vision damage/blindness
- Disfigurement
- Physical disabilities
- Death
Generally, injuries from explosions can fall under any of the following categories:
- Primary blast injuries: These injuries are caused by the force of the initial blast wave.
- Secondary injuries: These injuries occur as a result of flying objects and being struck by bomb or explosion fragments. These injuries can result in eye penetration and deep, sometimes life-threatening, lacerations.
- Tertiary injuries: When victims are thrown as a result of explosions, they can suffer injuries due to striking hard objects or surfaces. These injuries can be traumatic head injuries, fractures to arms and legs, and various other injuries.
- Quaternary injuries: These are injuries that a victim can suffer from that exacerbate existing injuries or conditions. For example, if someone has heart problems, they may suffer cardiac arrest due to an explosion. These injuries can also lead to problems and complications later on in life.
When individuals are injured in explosions, it is crucial that they reach out to an explosion injury attorney as soon as possible. Victims may have legal avenues available to help them cover the costs associated with medical treatment for their injuries and more. The explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson can help.
How Much Is an Explosion Accident Case Worth?
There are various factors taken into consideration when determining what damages are compensable. Furthermore, the extent of injuries plays a critical role in determining how much compensation an explosion victim is able to recover. When determining damages in your claim, the explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson will examine your losses closely.
Economic Damages
Economic damages involve the tangible financial losses victims have incurred or will incur as a result of an injury. Economic damages are typically more concrete because they can be readily documented and more easily calculated.
Generally, explosion accident victims can recover compensation for economic damages like:
- Medical costs for their injuries
- Long-term care expenses
- Lost wages for attending appointments and for recovering
- Lost earnings for victims who are forced out of work indefinitely
- Property damages
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages refer to losses that are not determined by financial charges or expenses. Unlike economic damages, non-economic damages cover losses that are not easily calculated but should nonetheless be compensated.
Non-economic damages encompass a variety of very real damages that result from personal injuries, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Physical disability
- Disfigurements and scarring
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of quality of life
When Explosion Cases Result In The Wrongful Death Of A Loved One
In certain tragic cases, injuries sustained in an explosion accident can be fatal. In fact, victims who are involved in massive explosions are at an increased risk of dying from their injuries. When victims lose their lives in these incidents, their surviving relatives may have legal options available to help them obtain compensation. While no amount of money can make up for the loss of a loved one, damages in a wrongful death claim can help to alleviate various costs families face moving forward. The explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson will look at every way your life has been affected by your loss to determine the extent of your damages.
Damages in a wrongful death claim can include:
- Medical expenses related to injuries from the explosion
- Funeral expenses for your loved one
- Burial costs
- Loss of companionship
- Lost support
- Lost income
- Lost benefits
- Lost consortium
- Mental and emotional pain and suffering your loved one experienced before passing
- Your mental anguish and emotional suffering
Depending on the state where the incident occurred, there are various parties who may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a tragic loss. Some of the parties who may be able to file these claims include:
- The surviving spouse of the decedent
- The surviving children of the decedent
- The decedent’s parents
- The adopted children of the decedent
- The designated beneficiary
In some cases, extended relatives may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit after experiencing the sudden and unexpected loss of a loved one due to an explosion. Working with an explosion accident lawyer can help to determine if you meet the required criteria to bring forth a wrongful death lawsuit.
Contact an Explosion Accident Lawyer at Burg Simpson Today
Being harmed as a result of a gas or oil explosion, or losing a loved one in an explosion accident, can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. Not only are there unbearable mental and emotional consequences associated with these incidents, but the resulting financial burdens can cause unanticipated challenges.
The national explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson have decades of experience helping those harmed in oil, gas, and propane explosions protect their legal rights. Our team investigates all types of industrial explosions on both land and sea to uncover the circumstances leading up to these catastrophic incidents.
Whether you were injured due to a defect or another person’s negligence, our attorneys strive to provide the most aggressive and competent legal representation to ensure you are fully and fairly compensated for the pain and suffering you are forced to endure.
If you were injured in an explosion, contact the explosion accident lawyers at Burg Simpson today online or at 888-895-2080 for a FREE and confidential case review. Our explosion injury attorneys have offices throughout the country serving clients nationwide.
