Fire, Explosion, and Electrical Injuries

Fires, explosions and electrical accidents cause some of the most painful and lasting injuries a person can suffer. Many are preventable — caused by faulty wiring, gas leaks, defective products or property owners who ignored fire safety requirements.

We represent survivors and families in claims involving residential and commercial fires, gas and industrial explosions, electrocution, smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Case Types We Handle

Our Fire, Explosion, and Electrical Injuries practice includes 14 case types. Select one to learn more.

• Residential Fire InjuriesResidential fire injuries are often caused by faulty wiring, appliances, heating equipment or missing smoke detectors.
• Apartment Building Fire InjuriesApartment fire injuries can involve landlords who failed to maintain alarms, exits and fire-safety systems.
• Hotel Fire InjuriesHotel fire injuries involve guest safety systems, sprinklers, alarms and evacuation procedures.
• Commercial Building Fire InjuriesCommercial building fire injuries involve code violations, blocked exits and inadequate suppression systems.
• Industrial Explosion InjuriesIndustrial explosion injuries occur in plants and facilities where combustible materials and pressure systems are not properly controlled.
• Gas Explosion InjuriesGas explosion injuries are often caused by leaks, faulty connections and improper installation.
• Electrical Shock InjuriesElectrical shock injuries can damage nerves, muscles and organs even when external burns look minor.
• Electrocution InjuriesElectrocution injuries involve contact with high-voltage sources and are often fatal or life-altering.
• Carbon Monoxide PoisoningCarbon monoxide poisoning results from faulty heaters, generators and ventilation and can cause lasting brain injury.
• Smoke Inhalation InjuriesSmoke inhalation injuries damage the airway and lungs and may cause long-term respiratory problems.
• Defective Smoke Detector Injury ClaimsDefective smoke detector claims involve alarms that failed to warn occupants because of design or manufacturing defects.
• Battery Fire InjuriesBattery fire injuries involve lithium-ion and other batteries that overheat, ignite or explode.
• Propane Tank Explosion InjuriesPropane tank explosion injuries involve defective tanks, valves and improper filling or storage.
• Fire and Explosion Wrongful DeathFire and explosion wrongful death claims help families pursue accountability for fatal fires and blasts.

Common Causes of Fire, Explosion, and Electrical Injuries

• Faulty wiring and electrical code violations
• Gas leaks and improper appliance installation
• Defective batteries, appliances and smoke detectors
• Blocked exits and missing fire safety systems
• Industrial process failures
• Improper storage of flammable materials

Injuries and Losses We See

• Severe burns and skin grafts
• Smoke inhalation and lung damage
• Carbon monoxide poisoning and brain injury
• Electrical injuries to nerves and organs
• Scarring and disfigurement

Preserving the Fire Scene

The cause of a fire or explosion is often determined by examining the scene, wiring and products involved. Evidence can be destroyed during cleanup or repairs. We work quickly to preserve the scene and involved products and to coordinate with qualified investigators.

How We Investigate Fire, Explosion, and Electrical Injuries Claims

Strong cases are built on evidence gathered early. Depending on the facts, we work to obtain:

• Fire marshal and investigator reports
• Building code and inspection records
• Product and appliance examination
• Gas and electrical utility records

Who May Be Responsible

More than one party may share responsibility, which can increase the insurance coverage available. Potentially liable parties include:

• Property owners and landlords
• Contractors and electricians
• Utility companies
• Product and appliance manufacturers

What to Do After an Incident

1. Get medical care and report the injury to your employer in writing
2. Note the equipment, conditions and companies involved
3. Photograph the scene and equipment if it is safe to do so
4. Collect co-worker and witness names
5. Keep copies of medical and employment records
6. Speak with an attorney about third-party claims

Compensation You May Be Able to Recover

Depending on the facts and the law that applies, a claim may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain, suffering and emotional distress
• Rehabilitation, long-term care and home modification costs
• Property damage and other out-of-pocket losses

Why Acting Early Matters

Every state sets deadlines for filing injury claims, and claims involving government entities can require formal notice within a much shorter time. Video footage, records and physical evidence can be lost quickly. Speaking with an attorney early protects your options.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

We investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, document the full extent of your losses and pursue a fair settlement — and we are prepared to go to court when an insurer will not be reasonable. Personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Consultations are free and confidential.