Propane Explosions Cause Severe Burns, Other Serious Injuries
Propane is an efficient and inexpensive fuel that is widely used across the United States in water heaters, furnaces, stoves, household appliances and outdoor barbecue grills. Propane is the primary heating fuel used in nearly seven million American homes; another 14 million households use propane in barbecue grills.
Propane explosions are blamed for more than 6,000 accidental fires in the United States each year. At least 20 deaths annually are attributed to the improper use of propane barbecue grills. Hundreds of burn injuries result each year from propane gas explosions, and severely burned victims often remain in specialized hospital burn units for extended periods of time as they heal.
Causes of Propane Gas Explosions
Propane gas explosions may be caused by defective, leaky tanks and valves or the improper use and transportation of the gas. Some of the most common causes of propane gas explosions include:
- Defective gas control valves or connectors
- Leaking tanks and hoses
- Negligent maintenance of tank, valves or connectors
- Improper installation of tanks, lines, and other equipment
- Over-pressurization of propane tanks
- Failure to odorize propane
- Defective equipment such as leaking tanks, valves and pipes
- Poorly maintained equipment used to store or transport propane
- Unlabeled or insufficiently labeled equipment
Propane Explosion Injuries
Propane is a flammable, explosive gas that can result in devastating, life-threatening injuries. Victims of propane explosions may suffer one or more of the following injuries:
- First-, second-, and third-degree burns to face, hands, chest and other body parts
- Loss of limbs and other traumatic injuries
- •Wrongful death
- Exposure to toxic gas resulting in nausea, burning of eyes and other conditions
Legal Help for Victims of Propane Explosions
If you or a loved one has been injured in a propane gas explosion, you may have rights. At Mark & Associates, P.C, our aggressive and dedicated attorneys will fight for the rights of you and your family. To consult with an attorney and receive a free case consultation, contact our law firm today by completing the case submission form on this page or by calling 1-866-50-RIGHTS (1-866-507-4448).
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What are the risks?
Thousands of Americans are killed and injured each year in propane gas explosions and fires. The improper use of propane barbecue grills alone results in more than 6,000 accidental fires and explosions and approximately 20 deaths each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
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