Gas Explosion Accidents

Gas explosions occur when there is a gas leak in proximity to an ignition source. Many gases can cause gas explosions. Some of the more common causes of gas leaks include natural gas, propane, methane and butane. This is due to the fact that these gases are commonly used as heating sources. Other gases are sometimes involved in gas explosion accidents, such as hydrogen, but these types of accidents occur less frequently.

There are many sources of gas in your home that may lead to a gas explosion accident. Some of these sources include:

• Water heaters
• Space heaters
• Dryers
• Ovens (including ranges and cook tops)
• Gas lights
• Outdoor grills
• Fireplaces
• Gas generators
• Pool heaters

Many gas explosion accidents can be avoided. In the home, many gas explosion accidents occur from natural gas. You may not be aware, but natural gas has no odor. Gas companies are required to add an odorant to gas to give it an odor that is easily recognizable. Should you smell natural gas in your home, follow these safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe:

• Alert everyone in the house and leave the house immediately
• Notify your gas supplier/gas company from somewhere nearby, such as a neighbor's house, and be sure to tell the company where you are
• Don' t light a match or use a lighter in the home
• Don' t turn on anything electrical
• Do not use your cell phone
• Do not turn on any lights

Maintaining equipment and having it checked frequently by professionals (i.e. furnace, fireplaces and water heaters) may also help to prevent gas explosion accidents.

When someone is injured as the result of a gas explosion accident, injuries may be severe. Gas explosions may cause severe burns, as well as associated traumatic injuries if the victim is thrown or falls. These injuries may require extensive treatment and rehabilitation and may result in lasting physical and psychological damage. In addition, medical expenses may be overwhelming.

Sometimes gas explosion injuries occur due to improperly functioning appliances. In these cases, liability for the accident can be attributed to any one of the following:

• The gas company who supplies the gas
• The person or company who sold you the equipment/appliance
• The distributor of the appliance
• Anyone who recently repaired or installed the appliance/equipment
• The manufacturer of the appliance/equipment

It can be difficult for a person not familiar with the law to determine whether an accident occurred due to negligence or faulty equipment. In these types of cases, obtaining legal advice is often necessary. Legal experts can help you determine whether you have a case and can help you move forward in terms of instigating legal proceedings. Legal experts understand the pain and suffering involved in gas explosion accidents and can help you recover damages for lost wages, pain and suffering and medical bills.