Propane explosions can be particularly harmful and dangerous when they occur. In November 2019, two massive propane explosions happened in a Texas neighborhood after a food truck went up into flames, damaging four other food trucks in the process. Onlookers were shocked that one propane explosion could cause such a severe fireball. The propane explosion rattled the neighbors' walls and shook their windows. Food trucks are required to make sure that their propane pressure test is working safely. Investigators are working to pinpoint what triggered the dangerous propane explosion. Although this incident happened in Texas, food trucks are a common fixture in the Charlotte area and a similar incident could occur here.
Our Personal Injury Lawyers Can HelpPropane tank explosions can cause serious second and third-degree burns, exposure to highly dangerous and toxic gas vapors, and traumatic injuries. Serious propane explosions can also cause traumatic brain, torso, head, and extremity injuries as well as wrongful death. Our experienced personal injury lawyers can help victims of propane explosions recover compensation for their injuries. A skilled gas explosion lawyer can help you determine who is at fault for the propane explosion that caused your injuries and seek appropriate compensation. Contact our personal injury law firm today to schedule your initial consultation.
Common Causes of Propane ExplosionsWhat happens when a propane tank explodes? Explosions do not have much to do with the propane tank itself expelling a steady stream of gas into a system as it is intended. Instead, when the propane gas escapes in large amounts, exposure to flames or high heat will ignite the gas. Once the gas becomes ignited, a fireball will quickly flare up. The high temperatures cause the liquid propane to expand rapidly, and eventually, the propane exerts too high of pressure on its container. The tank will rupture, causing a serious explosion.
As evident by the exploding propane tanks in Texas, propane explosions can cause severe injuries. Detecting safety problems with propane can be challenging because propane gas is an explosive, odorless fuel. When the propane tanks have defects or are leaking, they can become ticking time bombs. Many times, a violation of safety practices or codes regarding propane tank maintenance or best practices causes a dangerous propane explosion. Additionally, a lack of proper training of gas company personnel can lead to errors made when maintaining or delivering natural gas.
Propane tanks need to be equipped with a BLEVE relief valve that helps prevent a propane gas explosion. When pressure from propane gas increases to a certain point inside the tank, the relief valve will open automatically. The valve allows the tank to reduce the pressure inside the tank by venting gas. Propane tank owners should make sure that their tanks are closed when not being used. It is important to check the connections and holes for leaks. Also, be sure to monitor gas grills while they are in use.
Types of Propane Gas Explosion AccidentsPropane gas explosions are more common than you might think. Part of the reason for this is that people own many different appliances that could cause propane gas explosions. At Arnold & Smith, PLLC our law firm can handle all of the following different types of propane gas explosions:
Propane tank explosions can cause fireballs that can result in serious injuries. Propane explosions can result in all of the following injuries:
Propane gas explosions can result in complex personal injury lawsuits. At Arnold & Smith, PLLC we have a successful track record of representing many Charlotte area clients in serious personal injury cases. We utilize all of the resources available to us to conduct investigations into the propane explosion that caused your injuries.
Our main priority is to hold negligent companies and people accountable for causing victims and their families serious physical harm and financial hardship. We offer our potential clients a free initial consultation. Contact our personal injury law firm today to schedule your initial consultation. Now taking cases throughout North Carolina with offices in Uptown Charlotte, Mooresville, and Monroe.