Propane is relatively safe but, just like many types of flammable gas, it can be dangerous when the equipment involved is old and/or faulty or if the system is not properly installed. This is also the case if the user doesn’t follow instructions and abuses or misuses the equipment. In these cases, it’s highly likely that an accident causing propane gas explosion burns may occur.
Propane is a byproduct of petroleum refining and natural gas process that appears as a colorless, odorless gas in room temperature but can be compressed into a liquid. Aside from being easy to transport, propane has a low boiling point and can therefore vaporize once it’s released from its container, which means users don’t need a carburetor or any other vaporizing device.
Because of these properties, propane is used in a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial applications. These include laundry dryers, barbecue grills, central heating for homes, and portable stoves and refrigerators for campers as well as vehicles and heavy equipment like taxis, buses, and forklifts.
Cases of Propane Gas Explosions
Over the years, there have been many explosions that were caused by propane gas problems. On December 1, 2016, a barbecue trailer that was parked inside a warehouse in Stafford, Texas, suffered from an explosion. Investigators found out that the explosion was caused by a propane tank inside the trailer and that the tank was ignited by the electricity that had powered a refrigerator located inside the same trailer.
A few days later, on December 12, a propane-related explosion destroyed a house in Middletown, New York. The residents had contacted a private propane supplier due to a smell that they had noticed in the home, and the supplier was due to investigate the issue on the day the explosion happened.
Burns Caused by Propane Gas Explosions
Aside from damaging properties, propane gas explosions can also cause burns. The explosion itself can damage skin and underlying tissue, and the resulting fire from the explosion can also cause burns on the victim. This two-fold approach is one of the reasons why propane gas explosions are often deadly and can result to serious burns and other injuries.
Just like with other types of burns, propane gas explosion burns can result to superficial (first-degree) burns, partial-thickness (second-degree) burns, and full-thickness (third-degree) burns. Fourth-degree burns can even occur if the burn damaged muscle, bone, and other deep structures, which can lead to renal failure.
The severity of propane gas explosion burns can make it difficult for victims to regain good health. Depending on the type, location, and degree of the burn, they can take weeks, months, or even years to recover from their injuries and get back up on their feet. This won’t only put the victims and their loved ones through mental and emotional trauma but will also expose them to financial issues.
Find a reputable Burns Lawyer Today
If you have suffered from propane gas explosion burns due to defective equipment or improperly installed systems, get in touch with McEwen Law Firm. We have a team of expert burn lawyers who will work with you to ensure that you will get the compensation you rightfully deserve and that you’ll have the funds you need to get on the road to recovery. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and evaluation for your case.
Serving clients in the: Minnesota Area including Minneapolis, Minnesota, St Paul, Twin Cities, Bloomington, and throughout the United States. Hennepin County, Carver County, Wright County, Scott County, Dakota County, Anoka County, Washington County, and Ramsey County.
