Burn Injuries from Explosions: Who is Liable in Texas?

Burn injuries from explosions can change lives in an instant, leaving survivors not only with physical scars but also with serious questions about who should be held responsible. Explosions can happen for many reasons, faulty equipment, poor maintenance, unsafe working conditions, or defective products. Those who might be liable include employers, property owners, manufacturers, or contractors. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an unexpected explosion, you may have the right to pursue compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and the emotional trauma you’ve endured.

At Aldous Law, we use our years of experience to guide clients through burn injury cases with care and attention. We dig deep to uncover what caused the explosion and identify every party that could be responsible, making sure your claim covers all possible avenues for recovery. Our Dallas injury lawyers focus on building strong, evidence-backed strategies that hold up whether your case is settled or goes to court. If you’re facing the aftermath of burn injuries from an explosion, Aldous Law is here to provide clear guidance, assertive advocacy, and dedicated support every step of the way. Contact us for a personalized consultation to discuss your options and start moving toward recovery.

Understanding Liability for Explosion-Related Burn Injuries

Burn injuries from explosions come with their own set of legal challenges, different from other types of burn cases. Unlike burns caused by fires, chemicals, or everyday accidents, explosions are sudden, violent events that often cause widespread damage along with serious personal injuries. These incidents can involve multiple factors and several parties who might be responsible. Figuring out liability means conducting a careful, detailed investigation into what caused the explosion, the environment where it happened, and whether proper safety measures were followed.

What Makes Explosion Injuries Different from Other Burn Cases

Explosions stand apart because of the sheer force and scale of destruction they bring. Victims may not only suffer severe burns but also injuries related to the blast, like fractures, amputations, or traumatic brain injuries. Unlike isolated burn incidents, explosions often:

Affect multiple victims within a wide blast area
Leave behind complex evidence that needs expert analysis
Result from a combination of causes, such as system failures, poor maintenance, or defective equipment
Involve multiple parties who may be at fault, including employers, manufacturers, contractors, or property owners

These layers of complexity make explosion-related burn cases particularly challenging, both for medical recovery and determining legal responsibility.

The Role of Negligence and Fault in Determining Liability

Negligence is often at the heart of explosion-related burn injury cases. Liability usually comes down to whether someone failed to meet their responsibility to keep others safe. Some key factors that can point to negligence include:

Failing to properly maintain or repair equipment
Not providing adequate safety protocols or training in hazardous workplaces
Using or producing defective or unsafe products
Improper storage or handling of flammable materials
Failing to warn about known dangers

Common Causes of Explosion-Related Burn Injuries

Explosions happen suddenly and without warning, releasing extreme heat, force, and fire that can cause serious burns in seconds. These incidents can occur almost anywhere, from industrial sites and workplaces to homes and public areas, making them unpredictable and dangerous. Knowing the common causes of explosion-related burn injuries helps highlight the range of situations that can lead to these life-changing events.

Workplace and Industrial Explosions

Industrial sites, like steel mills, chemical plants, and manufacturing facilities, are some of the highest-risk environments for explosions. These incidents often happen because of:

Chemical reactions or spills igniting when hazardous materials are stored, mixed, or handled improperly
Gas leaks from pipelines or equipment that go unnoticed until a spark or flame triggers an explosion
Insufficient safety training or procedures, leaving workers unprepared to handle dangerous substances or emergencies

Because of the size and scale of these operations, explosions at industrial sites can injure multiple workers at once, cause significant property damage, and even affect entire communities.

Equipment and Machinery Malfunctions

Faulty or poorly maintained equipment is another major cause of explosions. In industrial and commercial settings, when critical machinery fails, the consequences can be severe. Some common examples include:

Electrical failures that spark fires or ignite nearby flammable materials
Boilers or pressure vessels rupturing due to extreme pressure or lack of proper maintenance
Mechanical breakdowns, such as overheating or sparking in conveyor belts, furnaces, or industrial tools

When machinery is built incorrectly, repaired improperly, or neglected during routine safety checks, the resulting explosions can leave workers with devastating, life-altering burn injuries.

Residential or Public Explosions

Explosions aren’t just a workplace danger—they can happen at home, in apartments, or in public spaces too. These incidents are especially dangerous because people often have no warning and little protection. Some common causes include:

Gas line or propane tank leaks in homes that ignite suddenly
Faulty consumer products, like defective appliances, batteries, or heating equipment
Failures in public infrastructure, including ruptured utility lines, construction accidents, or vehicle crashes that lead to fuel explosions

Explosions in these settings can seriously injure residents, bystanders, and entire neighborhoods. They also raise tough questions about product safety, property maintenance, and whether proper oversight was in place.

Who May Be Liable for Explosion-Related Burn Injuries

Figuring out liability for explosion-related burn injuries usually requires a careful, detailed investigation. Explosions often happen because of a mix of factors, and identifying who’s at fault means looking closely at everything leading up to the event. This process can uncover responsible parties that aren’t immediately obvious, even large companies or government entities responsible for safety regulations. Working with an experienced premises liability attorney gives you the guidance and resources you need to take on powerful organizations and fight for the compensation you deserve, no matter how complicated the case.

Those who may be held liable for explosion-related burn injuries include:

Utility companies or government agencies in charge of infrastructure safety
Employers and business owners who don’t maintain safe work environments
Manufacturers and product designers of defective or unsafe equipment or products
Contractors and maintenance providers who ignore safety standards
Property owners or landlords who overlook hazardous conditions or fail to warn

An experienced attorney can help you understand who might be responsible and guide you through the best legal options for your specific situation. With the right legal support, you have a trusted advocate focused on protecting your rights and helping you pursue the best possible outcome.

Legal Rights and Compensation for Burn Victims

Victims of explosion-related burn injuries often face serious physical, emotional, and financial challenges. At Aldous Law, we help clients explore options for compensation when injuries are caused by someone else’s negligence, unsafe products, or hazardous work conditions. Filing a personal injury claim can provide the resources you need for medical care and financial stability, while also holding those responsible accountable and helping prevent similar accidents in the future.

Types of Damages You May Recover

Types of damages you may recover include:

Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitative care
Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
Pain and suffering related to physical and emotional trauma
Property damage caused by the explosion
Costs for ongoing care or home modifications due to disability

Compensation can help cover the high costs of treatment and lost income while holding negligent parties responsible. It also provides a safety net, letting you focus on recovery while pursuing justice for the harm you’ve suffered.

How Liability Is Proven in Explosion Burn Cases

Proving liability in explosion-related burn injury cases takes a careful investigation and solid evidence showing that someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing caused the incident. This can include:

Accident reports and workplace records detailing what happened
Expert testimony from engineers, fire investigators, or product specialists who can analyze the cause of the explosion
Maintenance logs and safety inspections showing whether equipment, facilities, or products were properly checked and maintained
Witness statements from coworkers, residents, or bystanders who saw what happened
Product testing or analysis if defective equipment or consumer goods are involved

By putting this evidence together, attorneys can determine who’s responsible, whether it’s an employer, manufacturer, contractor, property owner, or another party. Establishing liability not only strengthens a personal injury claim but also helps encourage better safety practices to protect others.

Steps to Take After Suffering an Explosion-Related Burn Injury

If you or a loved one is hurt in an explosion, taking the right steps early can protect your health and your legal rights. Important steps include:

Get medical care right away: Burns and blast injuries can get worse quickly, so it’s important to get medical care right away.
Report the incident: Let your employer (for workplace accidents) or the proper authorities know what happened so there’s an official record.
Document your injuries and damages: Take photos of your burns, any damaged property, and the accident scene if you can. Keep copies of all medical records and bills.
Keep evidence: Don’t throw away clothing, equipment, or other items involved in the explosion, they could help prove liability.
Follow your doctor’s advice: Go to all appointments, treatments, and rehab sessions to support your recovery and your claim.
Talk to an experienced attorney: A lawyer who handles explosion and burn injury cases can investigate what happened, figure out who’s responsible, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Taking these steps not only supports your recovery but also strengthens your case, making it easier to hold negligent parties accountable and get the resources you need moving forward.

How an Attorney Can Help with Explosion-Related Burn Injury Claims

Recovering from burn injuries after an explosion can feel overwhelming with medical care, insurance issues, and uncertainty about the future. An attorney acts as a trusted guide, helping you gather evidence, talk with insurance companies, and hold those responsible accountable. From your first consultation to settlement talks or trial, a lawyer can make sure your rights are protected so you can focus on healing.

An attorney can help by:

Investigating to identify all responsible parties
Collecting and preserving evidence and expert testimony
Handling complex legal and procedural steps
Communicating with insurance companies and opposing counsel
Explaining the full range of damages you could recover
Fighting to get you the maximum compensation possible

With Aldous Law on your side, our attorneys aim to reduce stress and uncertainty so you can focus on recovery. We work to secure fair compensation as efficiently as possible, helping cover medical costs, lost income, and other expenses related to your injuries.

Aldous Law’s Experience with Explosion-Related Burn Injury Cases

Aldous Law has a strong track record of winning multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for clients hurt in complex explosion-related burn cases. With over 200 jury trials and more than $1 billion recovered for victims of serious injuries, our team knows how to take on big corporations, insurance companies, and negligent parties to fight for the compensation clients and their families deserve.

When you work with Aldous Law, you get experienced legal allies who are committed to helping you rebuild your life and pursue justice.

Contact Aldous Law for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an explosion, Aldous Law is here to help you navigate your case with confidence. Our compassionate team will work closely with you to protect your rights and make sure your injuries and losses are fully addressed. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward getting the support and compensation you deserve.

How to Document an Oilfield Injury Accident for Claim

When an oilfield injury changes your life, it’s important to know you have real options to protect your future and your family’s well-being. The steps you take after an accident can make a big difference in how your claim turns out. Letting your employer know about the injury right away and making sure it’s officially on the record strengthens your case and helps you get the compensation you deserve. Having an experienced personal injury team on your side can make the whole process a lot less stressful.

At Aldous Law, we guide you through every step of building your claim. We understand the oilfield industry and the challenges that come with an injury on the job. Our goal is to protect your rights, fight for your best interests, and make sure no detail is overlooked. Together, we’ll make sure your voice is heard and give you the strongest foundation to pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Immediate Actions After an Oilfield Accident

After an oilfield accident, taking the right steps can make a big difference in how your claim unfolds and ensures that your safety and interests are prioritized.

Some of the key actions to take include:

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize removing yourself and others from danger and seek medical care immediately, even if injuries appear minor.
Notify Supervisors and Authorities: Report the accident promptly to your supervisor or employer to establish an official record.
Preserve the Accident Scene: If possible, avoid disturbing the area to maintain evidence for investigations and your claim.
Document Initial Details: Record important information such as the time, location, environmental conditions, and any hazards you observed.

Hiring an experienced industrial accident attorney can help guide you through the rest of the process.

Documenting the Incident

Taking the time to document the scene after an oilfield accident is one of the best ways to protect your rights and strengthen your claim. The details you capture early on can make a big difference in your case, from showing who was at fault to proving how serious your injuries are.

To create a strong record of the incident, consider gathering the following types of documents:

Collect witness statements from anyone who saw what happened
Take photos and videos of the accident scene, any hazardous conditions, and your injuries
Gather company records and safety logs relevant to the incident
Keep medical records and detailed treatment notes from all healthcare providers
Maintain a personal accident journal to track your symptoms, pain levels, and day-to-day challenges

Keeping these documents organized can feel overwhelming, but an experienced personal injury attorney can guide you every step of the way.

Legal and Compensation Overview

In Texas, there are deadlines for filing claims after an injury. Workers’ compensation claims generally need to be filed within 30 days of the injury, while personal injury or wrongful death claims usually must be filed within two years. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from getting compensation, so taking action promptly is important to protect your legal rights.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation Rights

Knowing your workers’ compensation rights is key after an oilfield injury. In Texas, workers’ compensation can cover medical expenses, rehab costs, lost wages during recovery, and benefits for temporary or permanent disabilities. While employers aren’t always required to offer workers’ compensation, many in the oil and gas industry do to protect their workforce and follow regulations. These benefits can help ease the financial burden so you can focus on getting better.

Filing an Injury or Wrongful Death Claim

Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim can be an important step toward getting fair compensation. If a third party — like a contractor or equipment manufacturer — was negligent and caused the injury, you may be able to pursue additional damages. This can include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost future earning capacity. With Aldous Law on your side, your case gets dedicated attention to help protect your future.

When to Contact a Qualified Attorney

If you or a loved one is hurt in an oilfield accident, Aldous Law is here to help. Our oilfield injury lawyers understand the unique challenges oilfield workers face and the stakes involved when injuries disrupt their livelihood and their families’ security. We are committed to providing strong, compassionate legal guidance tailored to your specific situation.

With Aldous Law advocating for you, you have a trusted ally working to secure fair compensation and protect your future. Contact Aldous Law today for a free consultation to discuss how we can support you through this difficult time.

Burn Injuries in Oilfield Accidents: What You Need to Know

Oilfield work is one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Heavy machinery, high-pressure equipment, and flammable materials create constant risks for workers. When burn injuries happen in these settings, the consequences can be life-changing — affecting not just the person injured, but their ability to work and support their family. Severe burns often mean long, painful recoveries, permanent scarring, and challenges returning to work. The impact goes far beyond the physical injuries; it’s about protecting your financial stability and your future.

At Aldous Law, we stand with workers whose lives have been turned upside down by oilfield burn injuries. Our team has decades of experience holding negligent companies accountable and fighting for the compensation injured workers need to rebuild their lives. If you or a loved one has been hurt on the job, it’s important to protect your rights and your family’s well-being. Reach out to Aldous Law today to speak with a Dallas oilfield accident attorney who will advocate for you every step of the way.

Understanding Burn Injuries in Oilfield Accidents

Burn injuries in oilfield accidents can be particularly serious because of the high-risk nature of this work. Oilfield jobs involve heavy machinery, volatile chemicals, high-pressure systems, and the possibility of open flames or explosions, so accidents can happen quickly and often cause severe harm. The physical pain and trauma from a burn injury are just one part of the impact — these injuries can lead to long hospital stays, lasting scars, and even permanent disability. Recovery often requires ongoing medical care and rehabilitation, affecting every part of a worker’s life.

Because of these risks, it’s important for injured workers to get prompt and thorough medical treatment. Getting the right care early can improve recovery and also helps support any legal claims for compensation, including medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Oilfield Accidents

Oilfield work is naturally risky, putting workers in situations where burns can happen easily and cause serious harm. Flammable materials, pressurized equipment, chemicals, and electrical systems all create scenarios where a small mistake or equipment failure can quickly turn into a major injury.

Some of the most common causes of burn injuries in oilfield accidents include:

Fires and explosions triggered by equipment malfunction or pipeline ruptures
Chemical burns caused by exposure to hazardous drilling and extraction substances
Electrical burns from contact with high-voltage equipment or faulty wiring
Scalds from hot liquids or steam released during operations

Types of Burn Injuries Oilfield Workers May Experience

Burn injuries in the oilfield can range widely in severity, and the level of compensation often depends on how serious the injury is and the long-term impact on a worker’s life. Minor burns affecting only the top layer of skin may require limited treatment and downtime, while more severe burns can lead to permanent scarring, disability, or even life-threatening complications. Understanding the different types of burns can help workers recognize the seriousness of their injuries and the potential for compensation.

First-Degree Burns – Surface Skin Damage

On oilfield sites, first-degree burns usually happen from brief contact with hot equipment, steam lines, or even intense sunlight during long hours outdoors. These burns may cause redness, irritation, and discomfort, but they generally heal quickly without lasting effects.

Second-Degree Burns – Deeper Tissue Involvement

Second-degree burns are more serious and often occur after prolonged contact with hot drilling pipes, pressurized steam, or scalding fluids like drilling mud. These burns can cause painful blisters and swelling, limiting mobility and requiring time away from work. Improper handling of heated equipment or delayed medical care can make these injuries worse and increase the risk of infection.

Third-Degree Burns – Severe and Potentially Life-Threatening

Third-degree burns happen in more serious incidents, such as flash fires, explosions from gas leaks, or uncontrolled contact with flammable fuels. These burns destroy all layers of the skin and can also damage muscles, nerves, and even bone. Because nerve endings may be destroyed, the injury can initially feel numb rather than painful. Workers who suffer burns this severe often face long, intensive recoveries and life-altering consequences.

Chemical and Electrical Burns – Unique Risks in Oilfield Settings

Chemical burns in the oilfield often happen when workers handle caustic drilling fluids, acid treatments, or other hazardous chemicals that can seep through protective clothing or splash on exposed skin. Electrical burns are another serious risk because of the heavy use of high-powered equipment like generators, welding tools, and pumps. These injuries can cause hidden internal damage, disrupt critical body functions, and require immediate specialized medical care. That’s why following strict safety protocols around chemicals and electrical systems is so important.

Potential Long-Term Effects of Oilfield Burn Injuries

Burn injuries on oilfields can have lasting effects on a worker’s physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability. Many injuries require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation, and the impact often goes far beyond the initial trauma. Burn victims may face years of treatment and the challenge of adjusting to permanent changes in their bodies and daily lives.

Some potential long-term effects of oil field burn injuries include:

Physical Complications and Scarring: Chronic pain, limited mobility, and noticeable scars often result from severe burns.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common among burn survivors.
Loss of Income and Career Impact: Extended recovery times or permanent disability can lead to loss of livelihood and long-term financial strain.
Ongoing Medical Treatment and Rehabilitation: Burn injuries may require surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term medical monitoring.

Given the profound and lasting effects burn injuries can have, injured workers need an industrial accident attorney who understands the full scope of these challenges.

Legal Considerations After an Oilfield Burn Injury

If you suffer a burn injury on the job in the oilfield, there are several legal steps you can take to pursue the compensation you need. Knowing what to do can make a big difference in protecting your future and making sure the costs of medical care and lost income are covered.

Steps to Take After an Oilfield Burn Injury

If injured, it is essential to:

Seek prompt medical attention and document all treatments.
Report the injury to your employer and ensure an official record is created.
Gather any evidence related to the accident, such as photographs and witness information.
Understand your rights under workers’ compensation and explore if third-party claims apply.
Consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in oil field accidents.

Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can make a big difference. They can help ensure that all your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs are properly accounted for in your claim, giving you the best chance to recover what you deserve.

How Aldous Law Can Help Burn Injury Victims

Aldous Law has a dedicated personal injury team that understands the oilfield industry and the unique risks it brings. We work to hold negligent employers and other responsible parties accountable, standing up against anyone who tries to downplay claims or deny rightful compensation. With Aldous Law on your side, you have a trusted advocate who will keep you informed throughout the process, fight for the compensation you deserve, and help you focus on your recovery. Contact us today to discuss your options.

One Killed, 15 More Injured in Hospital Explosion in Gatesville

15 people were injured and one more was killed in an explosion on a construction site at Coryell Memorial Hospital in Gatesville, TX at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon.

Officials are still investigating the cause of the explosion, but Coryell Memorial Hospital CEO David Byrom stated that there’s a chance it was related to a gas line. According to officials, at least seven people injured in the blast are in critical condition, most of whom are suffering from second and third-degree burns.

“I don’t know the decimal level (of the blast), but it was pretty loud I can promise you that,” Byrom, who was in a board meeting at that time, said. “The shock wave was tremendous.”

After the blast occurred, he said that first responders and employees at the hospital quickly jumped into action. No patients or hospital staff members were injured in the blast according to Byrom.

“I’m surrounded by heroes where I work. It’s very impressive. Probably within five minutes of the event, my staff had that building nearly completely empty,” he said.

The construction area suffered extreme damage from the blast. Other areas of the hospital also suffered damage, including its nursing home. Residents of the nursing home were transported to nearby churches and other facilities, and the hospital is currently closed. There is no concrete timeline for when it will reopen.

“Most of our core services, including the acute care hospital, our emergency room, our nursing facility and assisted living are not open today,” Byrom said. “So, our focus is getting those facilities back online.”

According to Texas-NM Power, the blast also knocked out approximately 900 homes’ and businesses’ power in the surrounding area.