Fire and Explosions
There are hundreds of accidents caused by fire and explosions annually in the United States. Thousands of people are hurt in such incidents and left severely disfigured or maimed as a result. About 75,000 people have to be hospitalized after suffering some kind of burn injuries in fact. There are many reasons why these types of accidents take place and most of them are preventable. Some basic precautions and care taken when using flammable materials can go a long way in keeping danger at bay.
If you or someone in your family has been injured or maimed due to fire and explosions caused by somebody’s negligence, then you have the right to seek legal recourse. A qualified personal injury lawyer in Louisiana will be able to analyze your situation and advise you on a future course of action.
Things to Do After a Fire and Explosions
The first thing to do if you have been caught up in a fire and explosions is to seek medical aid. Local law enforcement and firemen should also be called in to contain the fire and prevent further damage. If your residence was destroyed in the fire, you will need to make alternate arrangements to spend the next few days at a friend’s home or in a hotel. It is also essential to inform your insurance provider about the damages at the earliest time possible.
Find out when you can return to the scene of the fire and explosions. This may be necessary if you have to claim any valuables from your property or start cleaning up. The insurance company representatives will also want to begin their assessment by visiting the site of the incident. This is also a good time to seek advice from an attorney on what you can do to seek damages and compensation.
Assigning Responsibility
Responsibility for fire and explosions are assigned depending on the circumstances of the accident. Landlords, building designers, or architects may be held liable in the event fire alarms fail to work or something similar occurs. Maintenance workers or security guards may also be held liable for negligence if the accident took place in an apartment complex or commercial building. If faulty wiring, improper installation of appliances, or use of sub standard construction materials has led to this issue, then the contractors may be held responsible for the accident.
Manufacturers of defective appliances or electrical fixtures may also be liable for fire and explosions caused. The victim is entitled to seek compensation for medical expenses, damages to property, lost wages, pain and suffering. Punitive damages may also be sought depending upon the nature of the accident. A person who has been hurt badly may have to bring about certain lifestyle changes. A good lawyer will be able to negotiate and fight on your behalf with the insurance company as well as the liable individuals or organization. They will have experts and analysts on their speed dial who will be able to prove how exactly this accident occurred and verify culpability.
Call a Qualified and Experienced Professional
Experienced and dedicated attorney Price McNamara handles fire and explosion cases across New Orleans, Kenner, Lafayette, Mandeville, Lafourche, Terrebonne, Jefferson, Orleans, East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Ascension, and St. John Parishes. If you think that you have a basis for a personal injury claim, or have been hurt or injured due to someone’s negligence or fault, call Louisiana personal injury attorney Price McNamara at his Baton Rouge office (225-201-8311) or his Metairie office (504-458-8455) to have your queries answered or to schedule a free consultation. His extensive trial experience of over 20 years, proven track record and limited caseload philosophy ensure that you will obtain excellent personal attention and a patient hearing on a consistent basis.
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