Explosions in Georgia can happen in homes, businesses, workplaces, or public spaces. The injuries are often devastating, the medical costs immediate and ongoing, and the damage to a person’s life—both physically and financially—is profound. Whether the explosion occurred in a residence, a workplace, a commercial building, or on public property, these incidents often point to preventable failures: a gas leak that went unchecked, defective equipment, poor maintenance, or safety shortcuts. For the victim, none of this is abstract. It’s personal, and the impact is permanent.
Georgia Explosion Injury Lawyer
At McArthur Law Firm, the attorneys handling explosion cases understand that the legal work must match the seriousness of the loss. These cases demand urgency, technical understanding, and a legal strategy built specifically for high-stakes, high-resistance defendants—utility companies, landlords, manufacturers, and corporate contractors.
McArthur Law Firm serves Fulton County, Bibb County and Fulton County, as well as Clayton County, Cherokee County, Forsyth County, and other counties in Georgia. For more information about the McArthur Law Firm or to set up a free consultation to learn what we may be able to do to help you with your personal injury case, give us a call at one of our offices in Georgia or fill out our online contact form.
- Atlanta Office: 404-565-1621
- Macon Office: 478-238-6600
- Warner Robins: 478-551-9901
Overview of Explosion Injuries
- Types of Explosions in Georgia
- Types of Severe Injuries from Explosions
- Who is Potentially Liable After a Georgia Explosion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Additional Resources
Types of Explosions in Georgia
Residential Gas Explosions — These incidents typically occur in homes, apartment complexes, or rental properties and are often triggered by leaking gas lines, aging or malfunctioning appliances, or the improper installation of household systems like stoves, furnaces, and water heaters. In many cases, landlords or property managers neglect routine maintenance or fail to repair hazardous conditions, increasing the risk of an explosion. These explosions can cause severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities.
Industrial Explosions — Facilities such as factories, chemical processing plants, and manufacturing sites are prone to explosions due to the handling of volatile substances. Contributing factors may include inadequate employee training, failure to follow safety protocols, or faulty machinery. Industrial explosions not only endanger workers but can also affect nearby residents, especially if toxic materials are released into the environment.
Vehicle Explosions — These can result from high-impact collisions, defective fuel systems, or electrical failures. In some cases, manufacturing defects in the car’s design may cause fuel tanks to rupture or batteries to overheat. These explosions can endanger drivers, passengers, and bystanders, and may lead to complex product liability cases.
Pipeline and Utility Explosions — Underground gas pipelines and utility lines present another serious risk if not correctly marked, inspected, or maintained. They may rupture and lead to massive explosions. Construction crews may inadvertently damage gas lines if proper surveying is not performed. Utility companies bear the responsibility of regularly inspecting their infrastructure and swiftly addressing any issues to ensure public safety.
Firework and Pyrotechnic Explosions — While often used for celebrations, these materials can lead to dangerous explosions. These incidents commonly occur during holidays, festivals, or unauthorized displays. Accidents may stem from improper handling, storage, or use of illegal fireworks. Even public events can pose risks if safety precautions are not strictly followed.
Workplace and Construction Explosions — Zones such as job sites and construction areas are particularly vulnerable to explosions, especially when safety protocols are overlooked. Common causes include gas line punctures, exposed electrical wiring, and the mishandling or poor storage of flammable substances. Contractors and employers have a duty to ensure that all safety standards are followed to prevent construction injuries or fatalities.
Types of Severe Injuries from Explosions
Burn Injuries — Burns from explosions can be thermal, chemical, or electrical. These injuries are usually classified as first, second, or third degree depending on how deep they go into the skin and tissue. Third-degree burns can destroy nerves and muscle, often requiring skin grafts or surgery. Burn injuries are painful, may lead to infections, and usually leave permanent scars. Some victims need long-term wound care and physical therapy just to regain basic movement.
Blast Lung Injury — Caused by the pressure wave from an explosion, blast lung is a serious condition distinct from blunt force trauma and does not require direct contact. This injury can cause the lungs to collapse, bleed, or stop working properly. Symptoms may not appear right away, which makes this type of injury especially dangerous.
Hearing Loss — The loud pressure wave from an explosion can result in sudden and permanent hearing damage. Some people may also experience ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus. In some cases, the eardrum may rupture. These injuries can affect balance, communication, and overall quality of life. Even if a person was not directly hit or burned, the force of the explosion can cause hearing damage.
Traumatic Brain Injury — Explosions can cause TBIs through flying debris, falls, or the pressure wave itself. Some TBIs involve a concussion, while others may cause lasting brain damage. Victims may suffer memory problems, mood changes, or difficulty concentrating.
Amputations And Crush Injuries — An explosion can violently sever a limb or trap individuals under debris. These injuries may result in the surgical removal of a hand, arm, leg, or foot. They are life-changing, and many victims need prosthetics and extensive therapy to adjust.
Shrapnel Wounds And Lacerations — Debris propelled by an explosion can lead to penetrating injuries from sharp fragments. These fragments, or shrapnel, can puncture the skin, muscles, or even internal organs. Victims may suffer deep cuts, eye injuries, or broken bones. Some wounds leave lasting damage or require emergency surgery. Scars from shrapnel are not just cosmetic—they often involve nerve or tissue damage that can be painful for years.
PTSD And Emotional Trauma — Psychological effects like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression are common among survivors. These psychological injuries are very real and can affect a person’s ability to work, sleep, or enjoy daily life.
Who is Potentially Liable After a Georgia Explosion
Property Owners — Under O.C.G.A. § 44-7-14, landlords in Georgia are responsible for keeping rental property in good repair. If a landlord fails to maintain gas lines, heating equipment, or appliances, and that failure leads to an explosion, they can be held liable. In non-rental property situations, premises liability law under O.C.G.A. § 51-3-1 may apply. That law requires property owners to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors.
Gas And Utility Companies — Georgia utility companies that provide natural gas or maintain gas pipelines have a legal duty to inspect, repair, and safely operate their systems. If a company fails to detect a gas leak, improperly marks gas lines, or ignores warnings, and an explosion occurs, it may be considered negligent.
Product Manufacturers — When a product such as a gas stove, pressure valve, or propane tank causes an explosion due to a defect, the manufacturer or distributor may be liable under Georgia’s product liability law, O.C.G.A. § 51-1-11. This statute allows victims to recover damages if a product is not made or designed safely and that defect leads to injury. The law applies whether the defect is in the design, the manufacturing process, or the failure to provide adequate warnings.
Employers And Contractors — In workplace explosion cases, employers may be responsible through Georgia’s workers’ compensation system. However, if a contractor or outside company caused the explosion, the injured worker may also bring a personal injury claim against that third party. Under O.C.G.A. § 34-9-11, workers’ compensation is the exclusive remedy against the employer, but it does not block claims against others who caused the injury through negligence or unsafe practices.
Local Governments And Municipalities — If an explosion was caused by unsafe infrastructure—such as a damaged gas line under a city street—then a local government may be legally responsible. Under O.C.G.A. § 36-33-1, cities and municipalities have limited immunity but can still be held liable in certain situations, especially where a public duty is involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays the victim’s hospital bills after the explosion?
The responsible party usually pays through insurance, a settlement, or a court award.
What if the victim may be partly at fault for the explosion?
Under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33, the victim can still recover damages if less than 50% at fault.
How much time does a victim have to sue in Georgia?
Under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, the victim has two years from the date of the explosion.
Can a tenant sue a landlord after a gas explosion?
Yes. If the landlord failed to repair something that caused the explosion, O.C.G.A. § 44-7-14 may apply.
Does a victim need experts to prove what caused the explosion?
Yes. Most explosion cases require experts to identify the cause and who is responsible.
What evidence should a victim gather after an explosion?
Helpful evidence includes photos, witness accounts, medical records, and fire reports.
Can a family sue if someone died in the explosion?
Yes. Georgia law allows wrongful death claims under O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2.
Can a victim get compensation for emotional suffering?
Yes. Georgia law permits recovery for emotional distress under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-6.
How long does it take to resolve an explosion injury case?
Every case is different, but many take several months to a few years to resolve.
Additional Resources
Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency – Explosions — This page from Georgia’s emergency agency explains how to prepare for and respond to explosions. It outlines steps to take during an explosion, a fire, or if someone is trapped in debris. It also provides emergency contact details and location information for state-level response services.
National Library of Medicine – Blast Injuries — This medical overview explains how different types of explosions affect the human body. It breaks down the injury types, treatment options, and how healthcare teams respond. It’s designed for medical education and training purposes.
Ready.gov – During or Immediately After an Explosion — This page explains what people should do during or right after an explosion, whether they are inside, outside, or trapped. It also offers preparation advice, such as building an emergency supply kit and staying informed through local authorities.
S. Chemical Safety Board – Current Investigations — This section lists active and past investigations of chemical-related incidents, including explosions. Users can explore incident details, timelines, and links to full reports for a better understanding of industrial explosion causes and outcomes.
Hire a Personal Injury Attorney for Explosion Accident Injuries in Houston County, Georgia
McArthur Law Firm serves the cities of Atlanta in Fulton County, Macon in Bibb County, Kathleen in Houston County, Peachtree Corners and Lawrenceville in Gwinnett County, Marietta and Smyrna in Cobb County, Stonecrest, Brookhaven and Dunwoody in Dekalb County, Albany in Dougherty County, Columbus in Muscogee County and throughout surrounding areas of the state of Georgia.
Contact one of our offices at the following numbers or fill out an online contact form to start building your case.
- Atlanta Office: 404-565-1621
- Macon Office: 478-238-6600
- Warner Robins: 478-551-9901
Other Personal Injury Resources
- Agricultural Accidents
- Amputation Injury
- Aviation Accidents
- Broken Bone / Bone Fracture Accidents
- Burn Injury
- Child Injuries
- Crime Victims
- Personal Injury Appeals Lawyer
- School and Daycare Injury
- Toxic Chemical Exposure
- Types of Accidents
- Types of Personal Injuries
- Serious Personal Injury
- Special Needs Trusts for Personal Injury Settlements and Verdicts
- Are Personal Injury Settlements Taxable?
- Catastrophic Injury
- Back Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Paralysis
- Neck Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injury
