Dallas Gas Line Explosion Lawyers
Representing Victims of Gas Line Fires & Explosions in Texas & Nationwide
When commercial and residential gas lines are improperly manufactured, installed, or maintained, they can cause devastating and deadly fires and explosions. Although rare, these accidents can and do happen—and they are often entirely preventable.
If you were injured or if someone you love was killed in an explosion or fire caused by a defective gas line, Lyons & Simmons, LLP can help. We understand what you are going through, and we believe you deserve justice. Our Dallas-based defective gas line lawyers represent victims of all types of negligence, defective products, and preventable disasters throughout the state of Texas and beyond. We have earned a national reputation for our aggressive approach to litigation, along with our focus on compassionate, client-focused service.
We do not charge any upfront or out-of-pocket expenses; instead, our attorneys only collect legal fees if/when they recover a settlement or verdict for you. We also provide free initial consultations to all new and prospective clients, so there is absolutely no risk in speaking to a member of our team today.
Contact us online or call our office at to request an appointment.
Common Causes of Gas Line Explosions
Most people use natural gas to power home appliances, and heat water for bathing, cooking and cleaning. And although many people recognize the potential dangers of natural gas leaks, few realize just how common they are.
In the most general sense, gas line explosions occur when natural gas escapes through an opening in the line and makes contact with a spark or flame. Natural gas is highly combustible, and even a small amount can cause a massive explosion.
Some of the most common causes of gas line explosions include:
- Leaks, holes, or tears in gas lines
- Defective gas lines
- Improper gas line installation
- Old, damaged, or rusty gas lines
- Insufficient or lack of maintenance
- Defective gas-powered appliances
- Poor appliance installation
- Defective gas tanks and reservoirs
While some gas line explosions are relatively minor, others cause massive property damage, severe bodily injury, and loss of life. When this is the case, victims and/or their loved ones can take legal action against the liable party/parties.
About Gas Lines
Gas lines are pipelines designed to transport natural gas or propane for residential and commercial use. They are crucial for various applications, including heating, cooking, and powering appliances. Here's a breakdown of gas lines in both settings:
Residential Gas Lines
- Purpose: In homes, gas lines typically supply natural gas to appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, stoves, and fireplaces.
- Materials: Residential gas lines are usually made from:
- Copper: Commonly used for smaller lines.
- CSST (Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing): Flexible and easier to install.
- Black Iron Pipe: Traditional material for gas distribution.
- Installation: Residential gas lines are installed by licensed professionals who ensure compliance with safety codes and regulations. Proper ventilation and shut-off valves are also essential to prevent leaks.
- Maintenance: Homeowners should regularly check for leaks (often using a soap solution to see if bubbles form) and ensure that appliances connected to gas lines are functioning correctly.
Commercial Gas Lines
- Purpose: In commercial settings, gas lines serve larger operations such as restaurants, factories, and office buildings. They may supply gas for heating, industrial processes, or commercial kitchens.
- Materials: Commercial gas lines can use similar materials to residential lines but often involve:
- Larger Diameter Pipes: To accommodate higher gas volumes.
- Welded Steel Pipes: For durability and pressure management in industrial applications.
- Installation: Commercial installations often require more complex layouts and adherence to stricter regulations, involving multiple appliances and systems.
- Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial, as commercial operations may have higher gas consumption and, therefore, higher risks. This includes checking for leaks, ensuring proper pressure levels, and verifying that safety equipment is in place.
Safety Considerations
- Gas Leaks: Gas lines can develop leaks due to corrosion, wear, or improper installation. Signs of a leak may include a rotten egg smell (from added odorants), hissing sounds, or dead vegetation above the line.
- Regulations: Both residential and commercial gas lines must comply with local building codes, safety standards, and regulations set by entities like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
- Emergency Protocols: In case of a gas leak, it's essential to evacuate the area, avoid using electrical switches or flames, and contact emergency services immediately.
What to Do If You Were Injured or Your Loved One Was Killed by a Natural Gas Explosion
If you were severely injured or lost a loved one due to a natural gas leak or explosion, you should know that you have certain legal rights, including the right to take action against the liable party. Depending on the specifics of your situation, the liable party could be an individual, a company, or some other entity.
Examples of potential liable parties include:
- Gas line and appliance installers/installation companies
- A property owner/landowner or manager
- The local gas/utility company or municipal entity
- The person or party responsible for gas line maintenance
- An inspector or repair company
At Lyons & Simmons, LLP, our gas line explosion attorneys understand how to properly investigate serious gas leak cases and can help identify the liable party. We have extensive experience litigating complex fire and explosion cases on behalf of victims and the families of those wrongfully killed, as well as a proven record of success in these claims.
Our team is happy to sit down with you to discuss the details of your case during a free, confidential consultation.
Call our office at (844) 297-8898 or submit a free online case evaluation form today to get started.
What to Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak
Natural gas is both colorless and odorless, making it difficult to detect a leak. However, gas companies typically add a chemical called mercaptan to natural gas to give it a distinctive, rotten egg-like odor. Most people can immediately recognize this smell, and it is the first sign of a dangerous leak. An unusual hissing sound can also indicate a gas line leak, as can obvious signs of damage, such as cracks or holes in gas lines.
If you smell gas in or around your home or workplace, or if you suspect a gas leak for any reason, be sure to do the following:
- Evacuate the Area: At the first sign of a potential gas leak, IMMEDIATELY evacuate the area. If necessary, help others get to a place of safety as well. Do NOT try to call 911 or the gas company from the area, as using a cell phone can cause a spark that might ignite the gas.
- Contact the Proper Authorities: Once you have removed yourself from the immediate vicinity, call 911 or your local fire department or gas company’s emergency number to report the suspected leak.
- Wait for Professional Repair: You should never attempt to fix a gas leak yourself but, instead, wait for a professional inspector to locate and repair the leak. An inspector will check all outside gas lines and gas-powered appliance and alert you as to when it is safe to return to the area.
- Air Out Indoor Spaces: Once the gas leak has been professional inspected and repaired, you should air out your home and/or other indoor spaces before going back inside. This means opening doors and windows to allow lingering gas to escape.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: If you continue to notice long-term effects of gas exposure, such as respiratory issues or mood problems, see a doctor. Although symptoms can linger, proper treatment can help resolve them.
We strongly recommend that you trust your case to an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who can not only guide you through the recovery process but also fight for the maximum compensation you are owed.
Our Case Results
When the Result Means Everything, Trust Our Team
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$860 Million Wrongful Death: Crane Collapse
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$109.5 Million Gas Explosion: Burn Injuries
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$70 Million Wrongful Death: Negligent Security / Operations
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$60 Million Wrongful Death: Worksite Explosion
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$37.5 Million Wrongful Death: Trucking Crash
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$33.1 Million Wrongful Death: Oilfield Accident
Why Choose Lyons & Simmons?
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Customized Legal Strategies
No two cases are exactly alike. We provide each of our clients with customized legal strategies and litigation solutions tailored to their unique needs.
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Aggressive Representation
Our highly skilled trial lawyers are fearless about going to battle for our clients. When the opposition pushes back, we push back harder. We are determined to end your case with the best possible result.
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A National Reputation
Our firm has successfully tried life-altering wrongful death and personal injury cases throughout Texas and nationwide. We have earned a reputation for taking on—and winning—complex, high-exposure cases.
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Client-Focused Attention
As a boutique law firm, you receive personalized attention from attorneys with the resources you would expect from a large law firm. Our mission is to provide representation on par with, if not better than, that of any corporation and give you the best chance to win in the civil justice system.
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