Fireworks, while often a source of celebration, can also cause severe injuries if not handled properly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a fireworks accident, seek legal representation from a Chicago firework accident lawyer from The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers.
How Frequent are Firework Injuries?
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPCS) 10,200 people visited the ER due to fireworks injuries in 2022, the predominance in the 4th of July period. Eleven deaths, mostly due to misuse, were reported. Young adults are the most affected, with firecrackers causing 1,300 ER visits, and sparklers accounting for 600 ER visits.
What Fireworks are Legal in Illinois?
Fireworks are heavily regulated in Illinois and are for the most part, are illegal. The Pyrotechnic Use Act (“PUA”) in Illinois bans the sale, possession, and use of all “consumer fireworks.” These fireworks (which are legal in some neighboring states) include firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles.
Certain things, like sparklers, are not considered consumer fireworks and are therefore legal. Penalties for the possession of consumer fireworks in Illinois can be up to 1 year in prison and a $2500 fine.
How Can I Avoid Firework Injuries at Home?
The best way to avoid fireworks-related injuries is to never use consumer fireworks. If you use legal ones, keep these important tips in mind:
- Read and follow all safety warnings on the label
- Never let children handle fireworks
- Ensure an adult is always present
- Light small fireworks one at a time and never relight duds
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby for emergencies
- Never point fireworks at people or animals
- Let fireworks and debris cool before disposing of them safely.
Who Suffers Fireworks Injuries Most Frequently?
Children, young adults, and teens are the most frequent victims of fireworks accident injuries. This is because they do not fully understand the risks associated with using fireworks, nor do they often realize how dangerous they can be.
What Are the Most Common Fireworks Injuries?
According to the 2021 report of the Consumers Products Safety Commission, the the parts of the body most often injured fireworks-related catastrophic injuries are hands, fingers, and arms. These areas account for 31% of serious injuries caused by fireworks. Burns, often severe, are also common and can result in permanent scarring or death. Eye injuries constitute about 15% of all fireworks-related incidents.
What Should I Do if I Am Injured by Fireworks?
If you or a loved one is injured by fireworks:
- Seek immediate medical attention,
- Document the accident with photos and records, and
- Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer for legal guidance about filing a personal injury claim.
Who Can Be Held Accountable for Fireworks Injuries?
Whether a fireworks accident victim was a spectator at a public fireworks display gone wrong or the user of a malfunctioning firework, they may hold the person or company setting off the fireworks liable through negligence and a personal injury lawsuit.
In many cases, a fireworks manufacturer can be held liable for burn injuries from improperly labeled or manufactured products. Additionally, they may be liable if they fail to warn consumers about the dangers of their products.
What Compensation is Available for Victims of Fireworks Injuries?
You may be entitled to compensation seeking personal injury claims if you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence resulting in fireworks accidents. Recovery can include:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, long-term treatment, and other medical bills
- Lost wages and future earnings if you can’t work due to injuries
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional harm from the accident
- And more
Find Out What Your Case May Be Worth
A firework accident lawyer will assess the value of your case by considering the following factors:
- The severity of your injuries and their impact on your life
- The cost of medical treatment and future care
- Lost wages or earning capacity
- Any permanent disabilities or disfigurement
- Emotional distress, pain and suffering
Fireworks Safety Tips
Tips from CPSC include:
- Use legal and approved fireworks
- Follow packaging instructions
- Supervise children using fireworks
- Keep a bucket of water nearby
How Can a Chicago Fireworks Injury Attorney Help?
A Chicago fireworks injury attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim
- Determine liability and identify all potentially responsible parties
- Calculate the full extent of damages you may be entitled to receive
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf for fair compensation
- Represent you in court, if necessary, to fight for your rights.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
The personal injury lawyers on our legal team at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers offer a free consultation to evaluate your case and to answer questions you may have about your firework injury. We work on a contingency fee basis which means you don’t pay us until we win your case.
(312) 223-1700