Gas Explosion Injury
Gas Explosion Injury
According to federal information, gas line explosions are more common than you think. Natural gas explosion injuries are on the rise. People are injured and even killed each year due to aging natural gas pipelines. Aging pipelines are not replaced until necessary.
When a gas leak leads to an explosion, several entities might share responsibility. But, it is difficult to navigate on your own. You should consult an experienced injury lawyer. Get the results you deserve so you can get your life back.
New Jersey Gas Explosion Damage
In New Jersey alone, natural gas explosions caused $48 million worth of property damage. Natural gas pipelines get worse with age. Additionally, they must be properly maintained or replaced to avoid further property damage.
Causes of Natural Gas Explosions
- Faulty pipelines
- Aging pipelines
- Defective control valves and connectors
- Faulty meters
- Improper installation
- Construction near pipelines
- Frayed hose
- Negligent maintenance
Natural Gas Explosion Injuries
Many life-altering injuries can occur from a natural gas explosion. Severe burns, permanent disfigurement, or death are common. Burn-related issues such as gangrene, debilitation and endless pain also follow a natural gas explosion.
Natural Gas Company Negligence
It is the responsibility of gas companies to upkeep their gas lines. Where there is negligence, a gas leak explosion may occur. Defective and faulty parts fall under the responsibility of gas companies. Their duty is to inspect all lines and replace all faulty parts which may cause injury to others. Faulty parts also fall under product liability. The manufacturer has a duty to test their product and recall any defective parts.
To file a lawsuit for natural gas negligence, a plaintiff must prove:
- Someone else had a duty of care to keep the victim out of harm’s way,
- That person breached their duty of care,
- That breach caused the victim’s injuries, and
- The extent of the injuries that the victim suffered
Natural Gas Explosion Injury Liability
Product Liability
The New Jersey Products Liability Act, or NJPLA, was enacted in 1987 to specify who is responsible and what is considered “harmful” in the form of products. If the manufacturer or seller of the product sells a defective or unsuitable product, they can be liable for the injuries.
Premises Liability
Natural gas lines are legally the property of gas companies. Sometimes, the gas company hires a contractor to install lines. In these cases, the contractor might share responsibility. But, the gas company owes a duty to the public to keep their lines in good repair. Homeowners have a duty to report any suspected natural gas leak.
Injuries Continue
In Stafford Township, NJ, officials found a splintered gas distribution main pipeline. The splintered pipeline was the cause of a house explosion. A camera in a police car caught the gas leak explosion on video.
The explosion injured over a dozen people, mostly emergency responders. Homes can be replaced, lives cannot. But, this is just one of the hundreds of stories that happen per year.
Lynda Farrell, the Pipeline Safety Coalition leader, issued a statement. “Nationally we’re in pretty damn bad shape. Not only when it comes to the consistency of regulations but also in having the needed powers to regulate. The reason for the absence of that regulation is simply that the industry has always written the safety regulations.” At Kane & Silverman, we want to force them to re-write those safety regulations!
Natural Gas Explosion Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a gas explosion, our lawyers at Kane & Silverman can help. Additionally, we will hold the wrongdoers accountable to prevent future injury. Our team helps injured people with product liability and premises liability cases.
We fight for your rights to get you compensation. We get you money for your medical bills and more. Call or text us today at 215-232-1000 to speak to a member of our legal team. Or, fill out our online contact form for a free consultation with a gas explosion injury lawyer. We have locations in New Jersey and Philadelphia for all your injury legal matters.