Gas explosions: What to do
In recent years, gas explosions have been an increasingly frequent headline. Sadly, reports of these devastating events have often been associated not only with homes being destroyed, but with loss of life.
Whether caused by faulty appliances, pipeline leaks or poor maintenance, the aftermath of a gas explosion can leave victims feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Here at Bolt Burdon Kemp, our personal injury solicitors are experts in gas explosion claims and can guide you through the legal process to help you get the compensation you may be entitled to.
Common causes of gas explosions
Understanding the causes can help prevent future gas explosions and may assist in determining liability should one occur. Some common causes include:
- Defective gas appliances (cookers, boilers, heaters)
- Improper installation or maintenance of pipework
- Gas leaks due to old or corroded pipes
- Negligence by landlords, gas engineers, or utility companies
- Failure to follow safety regulations
What to do after a gas explosion
Unfortunately, despite taking all possible precautions, you and/or your loved one may be the victim of a gas explosion due to the negligence of others.
Should this happen, whilst your initial thought should always be for your safety and dealing with immediate accommodation arrangements, you may be entitled to compensation. These are the steps you may wish to take following an explosion:
- Ensure safety
Ensuring the safety of you, and where possible your family, should be your first priority. You should evacuate the area and do not re-enter the property unless emergency services have deemed it safe to do so.
- Report the incident
If you are able to do so, it is important to notify the emergency services and your gas provider of the explosion as soon as possible. This will ensure the appropriate safety measures can be put in place to prevent further possible explosions.
Reporting the explosion will not only create an official record of the incident but it may assist in determining who was at fault. Following an explosion an investigation will likely take place which can be vital for determining who was at fault.
- Seek immediate medical attention
Even if you believe your injuries seem minor, seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Some injuries such as internal bleeding or the effects of smoke inhalation may not be immediately apparent but could be serious.
Where possible, retain copies of any medical records relating to your injuries and treatment as they could provide crucial evidence when making a claim.
- Document the scene
If it is safe to do so, and you have received all necessary medical treatment, take photos or videos of the damage and your injuries. Keeping records of the explosion, medical treatment, and details of any witnesses to the event may assist should you wish to bring a claim for your injuries or the loss of a loved one.
- Notify your insurer and seek legal representation
Once you are able to do so, it important you notify your relevant insurer of the explosion. Many insurance policies require prompt notification of such events to cover the cost of the damage to your home and the loss of belongings.
If you or someone you know has suffered injury as a result of a gas explosion, you may also wish to seek legal advice from a personal injury solicitor who specialises in gas explosion litigation to determine whether you have a claim for compensation.
Where the explosion has arisen due to the negligence of a landlord, gas provider or engineering company it is likely they will hold a policy of public liability insurance. Such insurance will cover the cost of your legal fees and any compensation you may be awarded.
Final thoughts
Being injured as a result of a gas explosion can be an extremely distressing and knowing the correct steps to take can help protect both your health and legal rights.
Getting to safety, seeking medical treatment, reporting the incident, collecting evidence, and obtaining legal advice are all crucial actions that can make a difference in the outcome of your recovery and any potential claim.
At BBK we are experts in dealing with claims for injuries following a gas explosion and have successfully acted for numerous clients who have experienced similar events. Our team of expert personal injury solicitors are here to guide you through the legal process of making a claim as well as ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
We recognise the psychological impact such an accident can have upon you and will strive to obtain any treatment you need whilst your claim progresses.
