Being involved in an explosion can lead to serious, permanent, and catastrophic injuries. According to statistics, more than 700 explosions are reported across the United States each year. These explosions can occur in a number of locations, including construction sites, manufacturing plants, oil rigs, chemical plants, coal mines, and even in private residences. In its most basic form, an explosion is a reaction caused when combustible chemicals come into conduct with some type of ignition agent. There are various types of explosions depending on when and how they occur.
Two of the most common explosions are chemical explosions and gas explosions. While being similar in some ways, these explosions are also different from each other in a number of ways. Here, we will take a look at the two types of explosions and discuss how they normally occur, the typical harm or damage that may result, and ways that victims can prevent explosions and protect themselves.
A chemical or natural gas explosion is a complex event that is often caused by human error or negligence. If you or a loved one have been affected by a blast, you should speak with an experienced national explosion accident attorney about your situation as soon as possible. Getting the legal help that you need is important during this difficult time.
Gas Explosions
Gas Explosions vs. Chemical Explosions: Key Differences
A gas explosion is one of the most commonly occurring explosions in America. A gas explosion normally happens when an unstable gas escapes from a confined surface or structure and makes contact with the air. We normally see gas explosions in and around pipelines, propane tanks, and other areas where natural gas is stored for use. One thing that most gas explosions have in common is that they could have been prevented.
Between 2010 and 2021, natural gas leaks caused 122 deaths and 603 injuries. It is estimated that about 33% of natural gas leaks result in fires while approximately 13% of these leaks eventually lead to explosions. These alarming statistics help to show some of the potential dangers of a gas leak.
Preventing gas explosions is often a matter of routine inspection and maintenance. Structures that are designed to house natural gas should be routinely inspected and repaired where necessary. These regular inspections would usually catch a potentially dangerous leak before it occurs. In cases where regular inspection and maintenance are not performed, accidents such as leaks and explosions are more likely to happen and cause damage to nearby persons and property.
Chemical Explosions
A chemical explosion usually occurs at chemical plants and other locations where chemicals are stored. Chemicals are not the only cause of plant explosions but are usually the cause. These explosions can occur due to improper handling, storage, or transportation of chemicals from one area to another.
On average, a chemical fire or toxic release of chemicals takes place every two days in the United States. Most of these incidents are preventable through the use of ordinary care and caution. Individuals who are in charge of handling chemicals should receive thorough training in the storage and use of these chemicals. Many chemical explosions occur because of negligent handling or storage. A chemical explosion can also be prevented through inspection of surfaces and other areas where chemicals can escape and be potentially exposed to an ignition agent.
Injuries Caused by Gas and Chemical Explosions
Exposure to natural gas and chemicals can result in serious and catastrophic injuries. People who are hurt in an explosion may experience:
- Head trauma and TBIs
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken and fractured bones
- Crush injuries
- Chemical burns
- Damage to eyes, ears, and nose
- Death
Being injured in an explosion often means many years and weeks of recovery. Having a skilled national explosion accident lawyer by your side can help as you move forward during this difficult process. Your lawyer will seek to protect your legal rights and will ensure that your future is secured.
Liability for Explosions
Establishing liability for an explosion is often the first step toward recovery for many victims. The reality is that explosions are a difficult and complex phenomenon. Deciding exactly what happened and who should be held responsible is a task that is usually delegated to experts. Some individuals and entities who may be potentially responsible for a gas or chemical explosion are:
- A natural gas company
- Employees
- Manufacturing and chemical plant owners
- A contractor or repairman
- Engineers and architects
- A utility company
There are many potential defendants in a gas or chemical explosion. Your attorney will look into the facts of your claims and help you determine what action can be taken to help your case.
Nationwide Explosion Accident Lawyers
Here at Burg Simpson, we have a team of trained and dedicated lawyers and legal professionals standing by to assist you at any time. We handle cases of gas and chemical explosion accidents across the country, so no matter where you are, we can help. Our firm has recovered more than $2 billion dollars for innocent victims. We are not afraid of or intimidated by large corporations, and we have the resources to help you and your family get the justice that you deserve.
We know that the aftermath of an explosion can be painful and devastating. With serious injuries and A long road to recovery, it is normal to feel hopeless about your future. Fortunately, however, there is help available. You may have a limited time to act so it is important that you reach out to us as soon as possible in order to avoid the loss of your rights.
Our consultations are always free for all potential and prospective clients. When you need a tough and aggressive law firm, you can count on us to obtain the best results. There is no financial obligation unless we win. During the initial consultation, we will go over every aspect of your case in detail and help to come up with a plan to secure your future. To speak with one of our national explosion accident attorneys, please contact us using our online intake form or give us a call at 866-695-1839.
