The Art And Science Of Explosions
If you were injured in a gas explosion, it means that something went wrong. Somehow, a gas leak developed and various safety preventative systems fell short. You will need an attorney to investigate the scene, determine causation, and hold all responsible parties accountable under the law.
Protecting Your Interests At The Site
In the aftermath of a fire or an explosion, there are often multiple parties facing potential liability. If a gas odorant was defective, you would not have detected a dangerous buildup of gas or taken steps to prevent the explosion. A substantial number of our explosion clients are victims with this type of product liability claim against the manufacturer of the odorant. Of course, the explosion would not have happened in the first place, save for a defective product, such as a faulty furnace valve. Finally, additional gas detector equipment may also have failed to provide you with advance warnings, such as sounding an audible alarm.
Working With Multiple Parties
Depending on the type of explosion, various governmental agencies may also get involved. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) may investigate explosions involving modes of transportation. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation, may investigate pipeline explosions. Local fire and police departments are also often called to the scene, as well as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
We welcome the involvement of these entities because they assist in the protection of the explosion site and the preservation of evidence. Indeed, this is one reason why we emphasize explosion victims need early legal representation. We are thoroughly familiar with investigative process, including the NFPA’s guidelines and recommendations for the safe and systematic investigation of fire and explosion incidents.
Maximizing Your Recovery
We also work with medical experts to properly assess the full extent of an explosion victim’s injuries. We have practiced explosion injury law over 25 years. In that time, we have witnessed vast improvements in medical science. Explosion and burn victims now have new cutting-edge treatment options, including artificial skin and laser surgical techniques. For this reason, it is important to maximize your recovery against all negligent parties responsible for the explosion.
Contact An Investigative Fire And Explosion Injury Law Attorney
With an office in Des Moines and national experience, we are a trusted resource for explosion victims in Iowa and throughout the Midwest. Call 515-957-7439, or complete our online contact form to set up your free initial consultation.