It seems that every year, fireworks shows around the country go haywire for different reasons. When explosives are sold and set off in bulk, the odds of accidents occurring increases markedly, and that issue seems to arise on an annual basis when municipalities celebrate Independence Day. Sadly, that appears to be the case with one specific batch of fireworks that exploded on a truck.
According to WRAL in North Carolina:
“Belhaven Town Manager Guinn Leverett said several fireworks that malfunctioned in his town’s annual Independence Day display came from the same truck that exploded on Ocracoke Island July 4.
Four people were killed and a fifth was injured when the load of fireworks on the truck exploded. All five had been contracted to set up the fireworks display on Ocracoke Island.
“The truck unloaded here and the same truck went on to Ocracoke Island,” Leverett said.
Some fireworks at the Belhaven show over Pantego Creek were shooting low. About 80 of the 240 fireworks did not go off. One of the rounds exploded in the canister, he said, starting a fire that was quickly put out. There were no injuries.”
Fortunately, no one was injured when the fireworks malfunctioned during the show. However, the fact that the town decided to use these fireworks despite the tragic results of the truck explosion is worth noting, as if anyone had been hurt during the show, it would have likely led to a higher amount of exposure to liability for those responsible for providing a safe display.
If you or someone you love has been injured because of defective fireworks or a negligent display, you may have legal rights and options that need to be explored. Contact the defective products lawyers at the Phillips National Injury Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Wed, Jul 15, 2009
Personal Injury, Work Injury