What Happens If You Are Injured by Fireworks?

The Fourth of July is a time of celebration, but it is also one of our most dangerous holidays. On average around 10,000 emergency department-treated injuries from fireworks occur on or around the Fourth of July, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The most common injuries include burns, cuts, bruises, contusions, and lacerations. Hands and fingers are the most common body parts injured, followed by the head, face, and ears. In the most severe cases, amputation and blindness can result from accidents involving fireworks.

Even fireworks that seem relatively harmless, such as firecrackers and sparklers, are capable of causing serious injury.

If you’re injured due to a fireworks-related incident, there are several things to consider:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

If the injury is serious, you should seek medical attention. Even if the injury seems minor, medical attention is a good idea, as some injuries don’t make themselves known right away. In cases of truly extreme injuries, such as amputations or eye damage, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Document your injuries with photos, and be sure you keep a copy of any medical records for treatments you receive, as they can be crucial evidence should you move forward with a lawsuit.

Legal Implications

Ohio has many laws regulating fireworks use. If the injury occurred because of illegal fireworks use, such as setting them off without proper permits, or in a restricted area, legal consequences may follow.

Liability and Compensation

If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. This could include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Homeowner’s Insurance

If the injury happened on private property, the homeowner’s insurance may cover medical expenses or liability, depending on their policy.

Criminal Charges

If you were injured because someone was using fireworks illegally or recklessly, they could face fines or charges. Ohio law requires individuals to transport fireworks out of state within 48 hours of purchase unless they have a proper license.

What If You’re Injured During a Legal Fireworks Show?

If you become injured while attending your local community fireworks show, there are liability and legal considerations, including:

• Event Organizers and Venue Liability—If the injury was caused by negligence, such as fireworks malfunction or improper safety measures, the event organizers, fireworks company, or venue owners, may be held liable.
• Product Liability—If a defective firework caused the injury, you may have grounds for a claim against the manufacturer.
• Municipal or State Responsibility—If a local government sponsored the show, special legal procedures may apply when filing a claim.

Filing a Claim for Compensation

If you are involved in a fireworks-related accident, you may have the legal right to seek compensation for your injuries. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney with experience, staff, and resources, can help protect those rights and navigate the legal process effectively.

If you or a loved one are involved in a personal injury due to fireworks, contact the attorneys at LaSalvia Law. We will fight to win you the compensation you deserve.