The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that over 11,000 people were treated in emergency department as a result of fireworks injuries in 2013. While all fireworks except for those classified as “sparklers” are illegal in Florida, there are loopholes which allow people to legally buy and possess fireworks. When fireworks are defectively designed or manufactured, the injuries people sustain can be devastating. Fireworks, after all, are explosives that have the potential to cause serious bodily harm. As a result, anyone injured by a firework that they suspect was defective should
contact a Clearwater products liability attorney as soon as possible after the incident occurs.
Fireworks can Cause Serious Injuries
There are many ways that fireworks can cause injury, only some of which implicate liability on the part of the firework manufacturer or retailer. For example, if a firework's wick is too short, it may detonate much too quickly for anyone to light it safely. Additionally, a firework may be over-filled with explosive material, making it's explosion much larger than one would reasonably expect. Some of the more common injuries associated with firework accident include:
- Burns
- Eye injuries
- Broken bones
- Loss of fingers
- Limb amputations
- Loss of hearing
- Soft tissue injuries
- Disfigurement
- Scarring
- Emotional trauma
In addition to fireworks used by private individuals, people who attend public fireworks displays may also sustain injury in the event of a firework malfunction. Because these cases have the potential to implicate a local government, a special set of legal rules may apply to such claims. The best way to determine whether you have a claim based on a fireworks injury is to discuss your case with a Clearwater products liability attorney as soon as possible.
Contact a Clearwater products liability law firm today to schedule a free consultation
Fireworks accidents can leave victims with significant medical bills, loss of quality of life, pain and suffering, and lost income, as well as other losses. Fortunately, an experienced Florida attorney may be able to help people injured by defective fireworks recover. To schedule a free consultation with an attorney at the Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, call our office today at (727) 451-6900. If you would prefer to send us an email, please fill out our
online contact form available here.