Work injuries caused by falls or construction accidents can be difficult enough for injured employees to endure, but injuries caused by fires or explosions can be particularly painful. Burn injuries suffered in propane explosions can leave an injured worker suffering not just physically, but also financially and emotionally. Fortunately, Missouri and Illinois laws provides such injured employees the chance to file for workers’ compensation benefits that can help them as they recover from their injuries.
One such propane explosion recently took place at the maintenance garage for an Illinois bakery in Oak Park. The explosion and resulting fire caused injuries to four workers; one of whom was critically injured. According to fire officials, the explosion occurred while the workers were in the process of changing a propane tank on one of the bakery’s delivery vehicles. The workers apparently believed the propane tank in question to be empty. Unfortunately, however, that tank was actually full and sparked an explosion after airborne gas came into contact with a nearby heating unit.
The propane explosion caused significant damage to the bakery’s garage, leading to most of the building being destroyed. A house in the bakery’s vicinity also suffered damage due to flying bricks. Neighbors in the area said they could hear the loud “boom” of the explosion; whose force was so great it was compared to an earthquake.
While it’s not immediately clear just how seriously injured the four workers are, it’s likely they will be dealing with the aftermath of burn injuries; especially the critically injured individual. Burn injuries are extremely painful and can have long-lasting effects on victims and their families. The recovery time for the physical injuries is often significant. Additionally, the emotional and financial toll these injuries cause can also be heavy.
My St. Louis burn injury law firm can be reached at 1-888-586-7041. We represent those who have suffered burn injuries in propane explosions and fires through no fault of their own. A personal injury lawsuit may be possible against a third party whose negligence may have led to the explosion or fire. Alternatively, an injured worker may be able to seek financial restitution through the filing of a workers’ compensation claim. This can help recover for related medical expenses and at least a portion of lost wages. Please call us now to find out more.
Disclaimer: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.
Sources: http://wgntv.com/2014/11/11/three-alarm-fire-reported-at-turano-bakery-in-oak-park/