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Request A Call HereAs their name suggests, gas explosions are what happens when an explosive gas comes into contact with ignition sources such as fire, electricity, and even hot surfaces. Depending on the exact circumstances that led up to them, gas explosions can cause enormous damage to their surroundings. So much so that it is not unknown for such incidents to inflict serious injuries and even kill those unfortunate enough to be caught within their area of effect.
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Generally speaking, the systems that power our homes and our businesses are safe to use. However, that can change because of damage and deterioration. For example, gas pipes are sometimes made out of metals that crack when they corrode, causing them to leak their contents as they age unless they receive regular care and maintenance. On the same note, poor installation can also create conditions for gas explosions. For example, if sections of pipe fail to match up, gas can leak out between them. Finally, it is important to note that even gas containers in good condition can explode when exposed to excessive heat.
Given that more than 68 million residential customers and more than 5 million commercial customers use natural gas to power their homes, it should come as no surprise to learn that natural gas is one of the most gas explosion causes. Other gas explosion causes include butane, methane, and propane, which are all used for heating purposes as well.
With that said, it is important to note that gas explosions can also happen in industrial facilities when something goes wrong. Since industrial facilities tend to have more gas on their premises, such incidents can cause even more damage than their counterparts in homes and businesses.
Gas explosions are extremely dangerous for people. Even when they are outside of a gas explosion's radius, they can be struck by shrapnel, which can kill and wound with similar ease. Worse, particularly powerful gas explosions can cause serious structural damage to buildings with disastrous results if they come crumbling down on their occupants.
When it comes to property, gas explosion dangers are no less serious, particularly when they are powerful enough to damage buildings. Even if the buildings come out of the event still standing, sufficient damage can mandate their demolition for safety reasons, thus imposing further costs upon the consumers and businesses that once occupied them.
Fortunately, those that have been victimized by a gas explosion can seek compensation by launching a gas explosion lawsuit in civil court. Like similar cases, they will have to prove either the defendant's negligence or the defendant's misconduct, though the preponderance of the evidence is a much lower threshold to meet than proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Although the experience can be complicated and time-consuming, it is nonetheless how gas explosion victims can get the compensation that they deserve for the harm that they have suffered.
If you or someone that you know has been the victim of a gas explosion, you may be entitled to compensation from the people responsible for causing the problem. Those interested in making a claim should not hesitate to contact an attorney for the legal expertise and experience needed to ensure the best results.
Read more about the NYC Gas Explosion Case Study here.
