Being caught in a fire or explosion on a New York jobsite can turn a normal workday into a nightmare. Along with the fear and shock, you may be facing painful burns, breathing problems, missed paychecks, and mounting medical bills. Not to mention the shock and fear from such a traumatizing event.
Fire and explosion litigation can help injured workers pursue compensation. If someone other than the employer caused or contributed to the incident, a third-party claim can hold them accountable. Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C., can investigate what happened, identify who is responsible, and fight for the financial recovery you need to move forward.
Warning Signs That Something Was Not Safe
Many jobsite fires and explosions have warning signs that someone ignored. Here are common red flags:
- Strong chemical or gas odors. A smell may signal a leak or vapor buildup that needs immediate action.
- Missing fire extinguishers. A site without working extinguishers loses precious response time.
- Blocked exits. Materials or equipment can trap workers during an emergency.
- Improper storage. Flammable liquids stored incorrectly can ignite easily.
- Repeated “near misses.” Small incidents often precede major fires or blasts.
If you noticed any of these issues before the incident, that information may help your case.
Injuries Linked to Fires and Explosions
Fires and explosions often cause multiple types of injuries simultaneously. A worker might suffer burns, get hit by flying debris, and breathe in toxic smoke all in a matter of seconds.
Common injuries include:
- Burns,
- Smoke inhalation and lung damage,
- Blast injuries like concussions and hearing loss,
- Broken bones from debris, and
- Scarring or disfigurement that may require ongoing care.
These injuries can affect your body and your daily life in lasting ways.
Who May Be Responsible for a Third-Party Claim?
Many injured workers assume workers’ compensation is the only option. Greenspan & Greenspan does not handle workers’ compensation claims. We focus on third-party lawsuits that can seek broader damages when another party contributed to the hazard.
Fire and explosion litigation may involve claims against a:
- Property owner who failed to maintain safe conditions,
- General contractor or construction manager who controlled the site,
- Subcontractor that created the hazard,
- Utility company involved in gas or electrical service, or
- Manufacturer if defective equipment played a role.
State law also places safety responsibilities on owners and contractors. Those duties can support a third-party case when they are ignored. For example, New York requires worksites to be kept reasonably safe and provides additional safety rules for construction-related work.
Why You May Need a Lawyer After a Fire or Explosion
After a jobsite fire or explosion, you may think the facts speak for themselves. But these cases often get complicated fast, and insurance adjusters may push for a quick payout.
A lawyer can help by:
- Finding the real cause. An investigation can uncover unsafe practices or defective equipment.
- Identifying every liable party. More than one contractor, vendor, or owner may share responsibility.
- Preserving key evidence. A legal team can act quickly before the scene changes.
- Handling insurance pressure. You can focus on healing while your lawyer manages the claim.
- Pursuing full compensation. Filing a third-party lawsuit can help claim damages for long-term harm.
With a construction lawyer in NYC on your side, you can focus on healing while they pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C., Can Help
If you suffered an injury in a New York worksite fire or explosion, Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C., can help. We can investigate the incident, identify liable parties, and pursue compensation that reflects the true impact of your injuries.
Representing injured New Yorkers since 1959, we bring decades of courtroom and negotiation experience to serious injury claims. Our experience encompasses navigating complex fire and explosion litigation involving third-party negligence.
We are known for strong advocacy and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. Our firm has also helped represent individuals affected by the 9/11 attacks, reflecting our long-standing commitment to supporting New Yorkers through some of the most devastating events imaginable.
If you’re unsure what to do after a fire or explosion accident, contact our office today. Our attorneys will help you determine your best course of action.