Experienced Legal Counsel For Fire And Explosion Accidents
Fires and explosions at construction sites pose dangers to workers and non-workers alike. Many of these catastrophes cause someone to tragically lose a life. Those who survive often suffer permanent harm and need a lifetime of care. Injuries include severe burns, respiratory problems, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, scarring and disfigurement.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 53 people died in 2014 because of an occupational fire. Death and injury are not confined to workers. Anyone within range of the fire or explosion can also be killed or severely injured.
At Crandall & Pera Law, our Ohio construction accident lawyers have the resources and experience to help victims who were injured due to a fire or explosion. Our legal team guides clients through every part of the claim process, including getting the case ready for a jury trial. We have obtained significant jury verdicts and settlements, including many multimillion-dollar awards. Our attorneys work diligently for the families of deceased victims and for clients who suffer any kind of personal injury.
Reasons Why Fires And Explosions Happen
Fires and explosions can occur due to:
- Flammable materials, gases, chemicals and other sources
- Welding and power tools shorting out
- Drills that cause flammable materials to ignite
- Smoking around gas
- Portable heaters
- Demolition work
Workers, independent contractors and bystanders may be able to bring a lawsuit against the construction site owners, contractors and other business entities. If equipment is defective, claims can be brought against the manufacturer of the equipment as well as the distributor and the retailer. Families of deceased victims may also be entitled to personal injury damages.
Safety Measures
The Occupations Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) maintains a set of regulations for protecting construction sites from fires and explosions. These rules are based on industry standards to ensure fires do not occur and if they do occur, that they are extinguished quickly. These regulations also aim to minimize any kind of explosion. In addition, Ohio has state laws and regulations to protect workers and bystanders on job sites.
OSHA and local rules require that construction sites:
- Have equipment to fight the fire, such as sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers
- Inspect the site for possible dangers on a regular basis
- Have a clear fire escape plan
- Have a way to contact the local fire departments
- Have rules for properly storing and using flammable items
- Have a proper water supply to aid the firefighting
- Have fire alarms
Those most at risk for fire or explosion injuries include welters, electricians, carpenters, painters, demolition workers, pipefitters and others.
Contact Our Lawyers As Soon As Possible
Delay can hurt your claim. Our legal team works to quickly investigate the cause of the accident. We use professionals who understand exactly how fires or explosions happen and what steps could have been taken to prevent the accident. At Crandall & Pera Law, we work aggressively to get you every dollar you deserve.
Please phone for a free consultation at 855-444-6651 or schedule an appointment by completing our contact form.