A Wisconsin woman was injured in late February 2014 after a propane tank exploded in her home. Authorities note that the fire explosion blew out doors, windows and one complete wall of the woman’s duplex, resulting in structural damage. The victim, who was in the home at the time of the blast, was taken to a local medical center.
Fire officials and investigators suspect that an LP tank was being used inside the woman’s home prior to the explosion. The tank was a 20-pound propane tank, which is commonly used for outdoor grills. However, this is not always the case. After the accident, fire officials had not yet uncovered the intended use of the tank in the damaged home. In connection with the explosion, there was also fire damage to the walls of the duplex.
Fortunately, the other side of the duplex was not damaged. The resident of the neighboring home was okay; however, the woman involved in the accident sustained serious burn injuries.
Burn injuries
It will take some time before authorities uncover the ultimate cause of the accident. In assessing the scene, fire officials will probably aim to resolve the following questions:
- Why was the propane tank in the building?
- What was it used for?
- Who put it there?
- What triggered the explosion?
These questions can aid with the assessment of liability. Until then, the woman will need to focus on recovering from her severe burn injuries. If she was not responsible for the explosion, maybe someone else is, and she can pursue financial recovery for her sustained injuries.
In general, burn injuries require several surgeries, physical therapy, skin implants and other complex and expensive medical assistance. A serious burn can prove to be unbearable and last for years after the incident. To make things worse, victims of burns must deal with scarring and disfigurement. Furthermore, some burn injuries become very sensitive to changes and temperature, making it difficult for victims to endure fluctuations in the weather. Also, specific clothing materials are more abrasive to the damaged skin.
If you have been a victim of a burn injury, the first step is to seek applicable medical therapies. The scar is forever, but you can work with doctors to minimize physical and emotional consequences after an accident. After treatment and medical assistance has begun, the next step might be to retain legal assistance – especially in cases where you believe you were not responsible for the accident.
If you have been harmed in a burn accident, speak to a lawyer about potential financial recovery.