Most industrial and domestic buildings use natural gas and propane which makes them susceptible to possible natural gas explosions. Something as simple as a leak or crack in a gas line can cause immense damage and injuries whether you are in the workplace, the grocery store, or at home. These accidents are often due to manufacturing issues or negligence.
What Causes Gas Pipe Explosions?
Gas explosions happen when there is a leak in a gas pipe line that is next to an ignition point. Leaking gas can migrate underground and into homes and buildings. Explosions can also be caused due to improper instillation, leaky hoses and valves, and maintenance errors to the gas run appliance in buildings such as hot water heaters, furnaces, and stoves.
Natural gas is completely odorless which makes it nearly impossible to be able to detect a leak before it is too late. This is why gas companies are required to add an odorant to gas so it can be smelled and detected before leaks cause major damage. Most of the time these odorants cause natural gas to smell like rotten eggs so it can be immediately apparent to anyone in the building.
If the gas isn’t properly odorized, or the property owner was not notified of improper odorizing, gas companies will be held liable for any damage that a gas explosion causes. Yet, gas accidents can also be due to inadequate maintenance by the property owner or by defective products that were sold by manufacturers. Improper instillation could place liability with the appliance or gas companies depending on the cause of the explosion.
Gas Explosion Liability
Because there are so many causes to not only the gas leak, but the explosion itself, it can be difficult to determine fault and liability. An extensive investigation must go into each natural gas caused explosion in order to find out what caused the explosion. Depending on fault, liability can be placed on a number of different parties or on several parties.
If you have been injured, or your property has been damaged because of a natural gas or propane leak which resulted in an explosion it is important to speak with an attorney right away. We can help you understand your rights and options when it comes to finding liability and collecting settlements. If you need more information on gas explosions or have any questions please contact our office today!