The 4th of July is a time for family, freedom...and fireworks. But, each year, emergency rooms across the country see a rise in injuries caused by these explosive celebrations. If you or someone you love is hurt in a fireworks-related accident, it’s important to understand your legal rights. As firework injury lawyers with experience handling catastrophic injury claims, we want you to be informed and prepared.
Common Types of Firework Injuries
Fireworks can cause serious and sometimes life-altering injuries, particularly when they malfunction or are used improperly. Common injuries include:
- Severe burns to the hands, face, and torso
- Eye injuries, including permanent vision loss
- Hand and finger amputations
- Traumatic brain injuries from powerful blasts
- Scarring and disfigurement
Most injuries occur in the days surrounding Independence Day, and many involve bystanders, not just the person lighting the fuse.
Who Is Liable in a Firework Injury Lawsuit?
If you're injured in a fireworks accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Liable parties may include:
- The person who set off the fireworks. If someone acted negligently—by using illegal fireworks or lighting them unsafely—you may be able to file a personal injury claim.
- The property owner or event organizer. Injuries that occur at public or private events may result in premises liability claims.
- The fireworks manufacturer or retailer. If a firework was defective or lacked proper warnings, a product liability lawsuit may be appropriate.
An accident attorney can investigate the cause, preserve critical evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Fireworks Accident
- Seek medical care immediately. Even minor burns can become serious if untreated.
- Document everything. Take photos of injuries, damaged property, and the scene.
- Gather witness information. Statements from those present can help support your case.
- Save the fireworks' remains. If safe to do so, preserving the fireworks can help determine if a defect caused the injury.
- Contact a firework injury lawyer right away. Early legal action can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
Firework Safety Tips
While our firm is always ready to help injury victims, we hope no one needs a lawyer this holiday. Here are a few key firework safety tips to keep your celebration injury-free:
- Only use legal, consumer-grade fireworks.
- Never let children handle fireworks.
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
- Light fireworks one at a time and back away quickly.
- Never try to relight a “dud.”
- Keep spectators at a safe distance.
When to Call a Firework Injury Lawyer
If a fireworks display turned your 4th of July into a nightmare, we're here to help. A skilled injury lawyer from our team can evaluate your case, handle insurance negotiations, and fight for full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At Veritas Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped injured clients across Colorado and Utah hold negligent parties accountable. Contact us for a free consultation. We’re here to protect your rights so you can focus on healing.
