Chemical plant explosions often lead to severe injuries for those anywhere in the vicinity. In the aftermath of these incidents, we often see the general public and elected officials rise up and ask questions about accountability.

Unfortunately, properly determining who can be held liable in the aftermath of a chemical plant explosion can be challenging. The legal aspects of these cases are multifaceted, and there are often many parties that could hold responsibility for a chemical plant explosion.

Here, we want to discuss what parties could possibly be held liable in the aftermath of a chemical plant explosion, as well as the types of compensation victims may be entitled to for their losses.

Holding the Plant Owner Liable

When investigations begin after a chemical plant explosion, the most obvious suspected liable party will be the company that owns the plant. The production and manipulation of chemicals is a growing industry, but it is highly regulated.

There are numerous federal and state rules and regulations pertaining to plant safety, operation, and maintenance. Failure to comply with these regulations could result and devastating consequences.

In general, any employee injured while performing their job-related duties will be entitled to workers’ compensation insurance. Additionally, chemical plant owners are covered by liability insurance policies that kick in when victims are injured due to accidents on the premises.

This type of coverage will apply if the actions of negligent employees or third parties contribute to the chemical plant explosion.

Holding an Equipment Manufacturer Liable

In some cases, it may be determined that the chemical plant explosion occurred because of equipment failure. In these instances, the chemical plant explosion case could morph into a product liability claim against the company or manufacturer of the particular piece of equipment that failed.

When this occurs, this will fall under the umbrella of a third-party lawsuit. The equipment company or manufacturer could be held liable if the plant explosion occurred due to the following:

• Defective designs. If a piece of equipment used in a chemical plant was poorly designed but passed their inspection, this could lead to the company being held liable.
• Manufacturing defects. Even well-designed chemical plant equipment could be damaged or altered during the manufacturing process, rendering it unsafe for users.
• Marketing defects. This is often referred to as a failure-to-warn defect. Chemical plant companies and employees must have proper instructions about how to use the equipment they are provided. If manufacturers provide poor instructions or leave out warnings about possible dangers, they could be held liable in the event an explosion occurs.

Securing Compensation After a Chemical Plant Explosion

Victims of chemical plant explosions may be entitled to various types of compensation for their losses. At the Doan Law Firm, our compassionate team has extensive experience handling complex industrial explosion cases.

We have the resources necessary to fully investigate these claims, and our Houston chemical plant explosion attorneys are regularly able to help clients recover the following types of economic and non-economic compensation:

• Coverage of all medical bills caused by the explosion
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation expenses
• Prescription medication and medical device coverage
• Lost income if the victim cannot work
• Property damage expenses
• Loss of enjoyment of life damages
• Pain and suffering damages
• Possible punitive damages against a grossly negligent party

The total amount of compensation available in these cases will vary depending on the factors related to each particular situation. We strongly suggest working with a skilled chemical plant explosion attorney as soon as possible. You can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or calling 800-349-0000.