Arkansas Explosion Accident Lawyers

Explosion Injury Attorneys Serving Clients in Arkansas

The explosion accident lawyers at Oliver Law Firm can help if you or a loved one was injured in an explosion caused by someone else’s negligence. Explosion cases can be extremely complex and emotionally devastating. We understand the impact a serious injury can have on every aspect of an explosion victim’s life. Our firm is committed to helping you move forward with strength and dignity.

Oliver Law Firm is passionate about providing the highest caliber of client service. Our attorneys are dedicated to standing up for Arkansans. We believe in being tough but fair. We aren’t intimidated by insurance companies and we don’t back down from doing what’s right.

If you were hurt in an explosion accident, contact Oliver Law Firm today online or at 479-202-5200 for a FREE case review. Our explosion accident lawyers serve clients throughout Arkansas from our office in Rogers.

You Have a Limited Time to Seek Compensation for an Explosion Accident Injury

In Arkansas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the injury. This means that if you have been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you must file your claim within three years from the date of the injury, or you may lose your right to seek compensation for your damages (see Arkansas Code § 16-56-105).

However, there are some exceptions to this general rule. It’s important to consult with an explosion accident lawyer in Arkansas to determine the specific statute of limitations that applies to your case, as there may be other factors that can affect the deadline for filing a claim.

In addition to meeting the deadline imposed by the statute of limitations, there are other reasons why it is important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible after an explosion accident injury; for example:

• Preservation of evidence: In explosion accident cases, evidence can be quickly lost or destroyed, making it more difficult to prove liability and damages. An explosion accident lawyer can help ensure that evidence is properly preserved and collected by obtaining photographs, video footage, witness statements, expert opinions, and more.
• Legal guidance: Explosion accident cases can be complex, and it can be difficult to navigate without knowledgeable legal guidance. A lawyer can explain the legal issues involved in your case, evaluate your claim, and advise you on your rights and options for seeking compensation.
• Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies may try to settle your claim quickly and for less than it is worth. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf with the insurance company to help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Talking to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible after an explosion accident injury can help protect your legal rights and increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. At Oliver Law Firm, we are committed to helping our clients every step of the way. We know an explosion accident can be one of the most terrifying and life-altering experiences a person can endure. Our attorneys will focus on every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing and getting your life back on track.

Do I Need an Explosion Accident Lawyer?

A significant proportion of households in the U.S. rely on natural gas as a primary source of heat. Despite the widespread use of natural gas for various household purposes such as cooking, heating water, and drying clothes, many people overlook the potential hazards associated with its use in everyday life.

Undetected gas leaks can cause catastrophic explosions, leading to property damage and severe injuries or death for those affected. Survivors of home explosions may experience life-altering injuries such as limb loss, traumatic brain injuries, and disfigurement, along with the possibility of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

As the victim of an explosion, you may not be aware of your legal rights, but it is essential to take prompt action to ensure that responsible parties are held accountable.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a propane explosion, combustible dust explosion, or other type of accident, it is crucial to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney. Oliver Law Firm’s explosion accident lawyers have extensive experience advocating for injury victims throughout Arkansas. We can provide the trusted guidance you need to successfully pursue the maximum recovery under the law.

There is a limited window of time to act, so contacting our office as soon as possible is critical. During a free case evaluation, we will listen to your story, assess your claim’s validity, and explain your legal options. Don’t hesitate to call our explosion injury attorneys now for assistance.

What Does an Explosion Accident Lawyer Do?

To ensure you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries, it is crucial to work with a skilled and knowledgeable legal team. The explosion accident lawyers at Oliver Law Firm offer a range of services to help our clients obtain the full and fair compensation to which they are entitled.

When you choose Oliver Law Firm, our attorneys will:

• Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion
• Obtain evidence and speak with witnesses to support your claim
• Investigate relevant property owners and/or product manufacturers who may be liable
• Collect medical reports and work with experts to assess the full extent of your losses
• File necessary paperwork promptly and accurately
• Negotiate aggressively to secure the best possible outcome for you
• Provide exceptional legal representation in court if needed

We believe that every client deserves justice after suffering harm in an avoidable explosion. Our legal team is committed to providing effective representation and maintaining open communication with our clients every step of the way. We are available to answer any questions and keep you informed throughout your case.

If you have been hurt in an explosion, don’t hesitate to contact our office as soon as possible. We are here to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Propane Explosions

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are nearly 600 propane explosions each year. While propane is a commonly used source of fuel for generating power and flames, accidents can occur when it is not handled properly. When leaks and negligence are involved, the consequences can be catastrophic.

Potentially negligent parties in a propane explosion can include:

• Contractors who fail to install tanks correctly, fail to inspect tanks/connections properly, or damage tanks.
• Manufacturers who fail to label tanks properly, fill or prepare tanks incorrectly, install faulty safety devices, or fail to use ethyl mercaptan (the chemical odorant that alerts people to gas leaks).
• Property owners who store tanks in inappropriate places, fail to check connections, or leave valves open.

Propane is highly flammable. When explosions occur, victims can quickly become engulfed in flames or see their homes set ablaze within a matter of minutes.

Combustible Dust Explosions

Combustible dust explosions occur when fine particles of dust—such as those produced by grinding, cutting, sanding, or pulverizing materials like coal, wood, plastics, or metals—become airborne and are ignited by a spark or other ignition source. When a sufficient quantity of combustible dust is present in the air, it can form a cloud that is explosive if ignited.

The explosion occurs because the dust cloud rapidly combusts, releasing energy in the form of heat and pressure. This energy can cause significant damage to equipment, buildings, and people. Combustible dust explosions are a serious workplace hazard in industries such as food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, chemical production, and many others.

Common Causes of Indoor Explosions

Propane and natural gas explosions can result from negligence. Some of the most common causes of explosions in homes and commercial buildings include:

• Fuel tanks placed near flammable materials
• Leaking tanks or hoses
• Leaking gas appliances
• Improperly installed propane or gas lines
• Defective pipes, meters, regulators, or control valves
• Old and deteriorating pipes or gas lines
• Gas lines ruptured by digging
• Improper equipment reconnection by workers
• Running equipment that should have been turned off

It can be challenging to pinpoint a single cause of an explosion, as there are usually multiple small issues or defects that contribute to a much larger and potentially fatal event. In many cases, multiple parties share responsibility for an explosion.

Our experienced explosion accident attorneys will investigate the facts surrounding your situation and determine the cause of the explosion. We will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf and hold the responsible party or parties accountable for your injuries.

Where Do Explosion Accidents Commonly Occur?

While explosion accidents can occur anywhere and anytime, there are certain locations that are more susceptible to such accidents. Oliver Law Firm’s explosion attorneys commonly investigate explosion accidents occurring at the following locations:

Residential Home Explosions

Home explosions can occur when flammable or explosive materials are present in a home and are ignited by a spark, flame, or another heat source. Home explosions can have many causes, including:

• Gas leaks: These are common causes of home explosions. Natural gas or propane can leak from gas lines or appliances, creating a potentially explosive mixture of gas and air. If this mixture is ignited by a spark or flame, it can cause a powerful explosion that can destroy a home and injure or kill anyone inside.

• Electrical malfunctions and appliance failures: Defective products are another common cause of home explosions. Faulty wiring or overloaded electrical circuits can create sparks that ignite flammable materials, while malfunctioning appliances such as water heaters, furnaces, or stoves can release flammable gas or ignite flammable materials.
• Volatile chemicals: Volatile chemicals in a home, such as gasoline, propane, or other fuels, can also create an explosion hazard if they are not stored or used properly.

Construction Site Explosions

Construction sites pose many risks, making them dangerous areas. Explosions at construction sites can happen for several reasons, such as the discharge of explosive or flammable gases like natural gas or propane, electrical failures, improper handling of blasting or demolition equipment, or unintentional ignition of flammable materials. Several factors, including human error, inadequate safety procedures, or equipment failure, can contribute to these incidents.

Pipeline Explosions

Gas and oil pipeline explosions can have devastating consequences, resulting in numerous casualties and billions of dollars in property damage. These catastrophic incidents can cause severe injuries, including toxic exposure, burns, blunt force trauma, and even death. If you or a loved one has been affected by an explosion, it is essential to seek legal guidance immediately to protect your legal rights. You may be entitled to significant compensation to aid in your recovery. At Oliver Law Firm, our explosion accident attorneys are committed to advocating for your best interests and obtaining the maximum compensation you deserve.

Oil Rig Explosions

Oil rig work poses distinct challenges that are often overlooked. Operating heavy machinery while handling volatile substances entails significant risks. When oil rig explosions happen, companies may attempt to blame the injured worker. Therefore, it is critical to seek guidance from a knowledgeable explosion injury lawyer promptly to safeguard your legal rights.

Fertilizer Plant Explosions

Explosions can occur when synthetic fertilizers, which primarily consist of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are improperly handled or stored. These substances can react violently with other materials, leading to dangerous explosions. These incidents can also result from inadequate training and improper storage methods.

Chemical Plant Explosions

There are various reasons why explosion accidents can occur in chemical plants. The incidents are often caused by factors such as insufficient training, faulty equipment, failure to comply with state and federal regulations, mishandling of flammable materials, inadequate maintenance, and improper storage methods.

Plant and Refinery Explosions

Plant and refinery explosions can result from a range of issues, including corrosion that goes unnoticed, poor maintenance practices, neglected boilers, well blowouts, unsafe procedures, and inadequate staff training. Unfortunately, these incidents can cause severe damage to property, including fires, burns, and extensive property damage.

Common Injuries in Explosion Accidents

Explosions can result in severe and catastrophic injuries for those affected. Victims may require emergency surgery and may be placed in a coma to help their bodies heal. Injuries can include:

• Spinal cord injuries
• Paralysis
• Neck and back injuries
• COPD
• Asthma
• Pulmonary contusions
• Air embolization
• Internal organ damage
• Traumatic amputation
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Burn injuries
• Blunt force trauma
• Disfigurement
• Physical disabilities
• Blast lung
• Death

Explosion injuries can be classified into four categories:

• Primary blast injuries: Caused by the force of the initial blast wave
• Secondary injuries: Caused by flying objects or fragments
• Tertiary injuries: Caused by victims being thrown
• Quaternary injuries: Injuries that exacerbate existing injuries or conditions

If you have been injured in an explosion, it is important to seek the guidance of an explosion injury attorney as soon as possible. You may have legal options available to help cover the costs associated with your injuries and other losses.

Potential Damages in an Explosion Accident Claim

Determining the value of an explosion injury case can be challenging. The compensation you may be due depends on several factors, such as the severity and extent of the victim’s injuries, the impact of the injuries on the victim’s life, and the liability of the party at fault.

Damages can vary significantly from one explosion injury case to another, depending on the severity of the injury and other factors.

In an explosion accident case, damages can be categorized into three main types: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to the financial losses that the victim has suffered as a result of their burn injury. These damages can be calculated with a high degree of certainty and may include:

• Medical expenses: This includes the cost of hospitalization, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and other medical treatments related to the burn injury.
• Lost income: This includes the wages and benefits the victim would have earned had they not been injured.
• Property damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing any damaged property, such as a car or clothing, as a result of the burn injury.
• Other financial losses: This may include expenses such as travel costs for medical appointments, home modifications, and assistive devices like wheelchairs.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are losses that are more difficult to quantify in financial terms. These damages may include:

• Pain and suffering: This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the burn injury.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: This includes the inability to participate in activities the victim once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, and other leisure activities.
• Disfigurement: This includes scarring, amputation, and other forms of permanent disfigurement that may result from the burn injury.
• Loss of consortium: This includes the impact that the burn injury has had on the victim’s relationships with their spouse, children, or other loved ones.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are a type of compensation that can be awarded to a plaintiff in a civil lawsuit as a way to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or reckless behavior.

Punitive damages are different from compensatory damages, which are intended to compensate the plaintiff for their losses or damages. Instead, punitive damages are designed to deter the defendant and others from engaging in similar conduct in the future.

In Arkansas, punitive damages can only be awarded if the plaintiff proves by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with malice, reckless disregard, or intentionally wrongful conduct (see Arkansas Code § 16-55-206). Additionally, Arkansas law limits the amount of punitive damages that can be awarded to either three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded (up to $1 million) or $250,000, whichever is greater (see Ark. Code § 16-55-208).

The rules and limits surrounding punitive damages can vary depending on the specific case and circumstances involved. If you have a specific legal question or are involved in a lawsuit in Arkansas, it’s best to consult with an attorney in the state who can provide you with guidance and advice based on your situation.

Explosion Accidents & Wrongful Death

Explosion accidents can lead to fatal injuries, leaving families devastated. Surviving relatives may be able to seek compensation for their financial and emotional losses in a wrongful death claim. Although no monetary award can replace the loss of someone dear, damages awarded in these cases can help to alleviate various costs you may face after the death of a family member.

Potential compensation in a wrongful death claim can include:

• The deceased’s medical bills
• Funeral costs
• Burial expenses
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of support
• Loss of income
• Loss of benefits
• Loss of consortium
• Your emotional suffering

In Arkansas, the following parties are allowed to file a wrongful death lawsuit:

• Surviving spouse of the deceased
• Surviving children of the deceased
• Surviving parent(s) of the deceased
• Personal representative of the deceased’s estate, if none of the above parties are available or willing to file the claim

The personal representative of the deceased’s estate may file the lawsuit on behalf of the surviving relatives and distribute any damages awarded according to the deceased’s will or Arkansas intestate succession laws if there is no will.

Call an Explosion Accident Attorney Today for Free

Experiencing injuries or losing a loved one in a gas or oil explosion can have profound and lasting effects on a person’s life. Along with the psychological impact, there can be significant financial consequences.

At Oliver Law Firm, our Arkansas explosion accident attorneys have substantial experience protecting the legal rights of those impacted by propane, dust, and other explosions. We investigate all types of industrial explosions to determine the cause of these devastating incidents.

Whether your injury resulted from a defect or someone’s negligence, our legal team is committed to providing the most vigorous and capable representation possible to ensure you receive complete and equitable compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured.
If you were injured in an explosion, contact Oliver Law Firm today online or at 479-202-5200 for a FREE case evaluation. Our explosion injury attorneys serve clients throughout Arkansas.