Multiple Injuries Reported After Cypress Hills, Brooklyn Explosion At Home On Vernon Street
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK (December 4, 2021) – At least six people were injured in an explosion and fire at a home along Vernon Street in Cypress Hills.
New York City police officials are saying that the explosion took place early Wednesday, December 1st. The force of the blast collapsed the first floor of the home causing it to fall into the cellar.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the explosion in order to help all of the victims. Firefighters were eventually able to put out the fire and six people were transported to Brookdale University Hospital.
In all, the explosion left 54 residents of adjoining buildings homeless. A full investigation into the Brooklyn explosion remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In New York City Explosion Accidents
Thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in home fires and explosions every year. According to one analysis by the National Fire Protection Association, “US fire departments responded to an estimated average of 346,800 home structure fires per year. These fires caused an annual average of 2,620 civilian deaths; 11,070 civilian fire injuries; and $7.3 billion in direct property damage.” There are a number of common sources of home explosions.
- Natural gas leaks
- Electrical malfunctions
- Propane gas leaks
- Device malfunctions
Depending on the specific facts of any case, there could be numerous sources of liability for a home explosion. A property owner could be liable for a home explosion if it was caused by some defect with the home. All property owners in New York have a legal responsibility to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This must be done for the protection of all persons on a property whose presence is reasonably foreseeable.
Defects with a property could include appliances or gas lines that are poorly maintained. Natural gas is by far the most common source of home explosions. Many of these explosions are due to gas lines that are not set up properly. A valve may be slightly loose before eventually coming completely off. It is important that maintenance records are examined after any accident.
A gas company could also potentially be held liable for a home explosion. Gas companies must properly maintain their lines. Periodic inspections of gas lines should also take place. When a gas company has actual or constructive notice of a dangerous condition with their lines they must take action. Failure to correct a dangerous condition with gas lines could create the basis of a negligence claim. Victims of home explosions tend to suffer very serious and costly injuries including:
- Burn injuries
- Broken bones
- Ruptured ear drums
- Organ damage
- Lacerations
Any person that is injured in a home explosion may be able to seek justice through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Many accident victims may not realize the full extent of their injuries until several months after an accident. This is why it’s so important to continue to seek follow up care. A New York City personal injury attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Liability A New York City Explosion Accident
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. extend our best wishes to all of the victims of this tragic Brooklyn accident. It’s a miracle that no one was killed after the first floor collapsed. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what happened. It is our sincere hope that safety measures are put in place to prevent similar accidents in the future. When was the last time this building was inspected? What was the cause of the explosion? Could this accident have been prevented? Many home explosions can be prevented when the right safety measures are put in place and there are periodic inspections.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in an explosion? You may be entitled to financial compensation. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to help in any way that we can. We care deeply that accident victims get the support and justice that they deserve. You’re always welcome to reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
