Horrific Fertilizer Plant Explosion and Fire Reminds of the Danger of Industrial Accidents
Industrial accidents that result in explosions and fires can cause devastating injuries and even wrongful death. A tragedy this week serves as a tragic reminder of the potential danger posed by industrial accidents in industries that work with hazardous, toxic and explosive materials. Our condolences go out to the victims and families that lost loved ones in the horrific explosion at West Fertilizer located near Waco, Texas. The deadly explosion and fire may have claimed the lives of as many as fifteen people while causing injury to 160 more.
The industrial explosion at the fertilizer plant was so powerful that it leveled a four block area surrounding the factory. The factory was completely demolished in the blast, which explains the enormous loss of life and high number of devastating injuries. The impact of the fire and explosion also affected as many as 75 homes and apartments units, including a nursing home which had to evacuate 133 residents including many in wheelchairs.
While it is not certain what caused the workplace fire and blast, workers compensation benefits, when applicable, may provide medical care, partial income replacement, permanent disability benefits and death benefits to the injured workers and their families. However, the types of injuries suffered may make workers compensation benefits inadequate to fully compensate the injury victims and their families. Explosions that cause fires may result in devastating injuries like head trauma, loss of limbs, amputations, massive burns, smoke inhalation damage and internal injuries. For this type of serious injury, a personal injury claim or lawsuit often offers more extensive compensation because it can result in damages to cover pain and suffering, impaired quality of life, loss of companionship of a spouse and other forms of compensation not available in a workers compensation claim.
The investigation of the industrial fire and explosion is still in the early stages, but negligence by a viable defendant will need to be established to pursue a personal injury claim. Negligence that causes an industrial explosion may include improper storage or handling of combustible or explosive materials; failure to comply with safety laws, regulations and industry practices; or product defects. While negligence must be established to obtain personal injury damages, workers compensation benefits generally are available without regard to fault.
Our experienced Georgia industrial accident attorneys at Montlick and Associates represent clients injured in a wide range of fires and explosions who experience workplace-related injuries, including but not limited to the following:
- Chemical explosions (chemical burns)
- Natural gas explosions
- Refinery accidents
- Gas line fires and explosions
- Petroleum refinery accidents
Why Montlick & Associates Should Handle Your Georgia Personal Injury Case?
Georgia personal injury lawyers at Montlick and Associates are available to provide effective legal representation to accident victims throughout all of Georgia and the Southeast. The firm was recently honored by the Georgia House of Representatives for its 30 years of service, with the passing of House Resolution 394, recognizing Montlick & Associates for "the outstanding accomplishments of this distinguished firm," and "for providing efficient, effective and dedicated services to the citizens of Georgia."
Call 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit online at www.montlick.com and use the firm's Free 24-hour Live Online Chat or Free Case Evaluation Form.