Tennessee Propane Gas Accidents
Propane is an odorless, colorless gas commonly used in the summertime for barbecue grills and in the winter for home heating. It is usually sold in 20-pound tanks as liquefied petroleum gas (LP gas), which contains small amounts of propylene, butane and a foul-smelling odorant called ethanethiol that is used to detect leaks. Most people buy propane at convenience stores or grocery stores from tank exchanges such as Blue Rhino or AmeriGas.
While propane is inexpensive and easily accessible, it can also be highly combustible and flammable. U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 1,170 home structure fires each year between 2003-2007, according to the National Fire Protection Association. These fires resulted in 34 deaths, 135 injuries and $48 million in direct property damage.
The Tennessee burn injury attorneys at Terry, Terry & Stapleton have worked with a number of severe burn cases, including those that involved propane gas. We have seen the common causes as well as the damage and devastation that often results from these burn injuries. If you have suffered a propane burn injury, call us today at 1-800-518-3779 or contact us online to discuss your legal options.
Common Causes of Propane Gas Explosions and Fires
Most propane gas explosions and fires occur in backyards, patios or terraces, where a family member is using a barbecue grill, cooking stove or hibachi. Because propane is a heavy gas, it can also accumulate in low-lying areas and result in explosions in areas such as basements. Some of the most common causes for these accidents are:
- Improper installation or maintenance of the tank;
- Defective control valves, lines, connectors or other equipment;
- Leaking tanks and hoses;
- Over-pressurized tanks;
- Improperly odorized gas;
- Insufficient labeling on the tank or equipment.
Propane can easily ignite when exposed to a spark, ember or flame, which could come from a match, lighter, cigarette, pilot light, baseboard heater or light switch.
Common Propane Gas Injuries
A propane leak can cause nausea, dizziness and headaches if the area is not well-ventilated. Once ignited, even a small propane leak can become extremely dangerous, leading to burns across the face, arms, hands and legs. In some cases, a propane gas explosion can be deadly.
Contact Us Today
The Morristown, Tennessee propane gas accident attorneys of Terry, Terry & Stapleton have experience in working with burn victims and their families. We know what to investigate in barbecue grill or home heating explosions and fires, and we have experience at assessing damages. We have represented burn injury victims throughout Tennessee, including Rogersville, Newport, Morristown, Knoxville, Kingsport, Johnson City, Jefferson City and Greeneville. If you need legal help with a propane gas accident claim, call us today at 1-800-518-3779
