Many people in the Lewiston-Auburn area rely on natural gas for clean, affordable energy. However, while natural gas is a valuable resource, it is also flammable and explosive. A single spark can lead to a potentially devastating fire.
When a gas line gets punctured, the utility company may be responsible for any resulting injuries. In some cases, another party may be liable if they dug up a gas line without the help of utilities and caused the puncture.
These third-party liability issues can complicate lawsuits alleging punctured gas line liability in Auburn. A hardworking utility accident attorney with Gideon, Asen LLC can investigate the cause of an accident and determine the responsible party.
Natural Gas Explosions and Fires
When properly installed, maintained, and protected, natural gas can be a great source of energy. It is cleaner than some fuel sources, relatively inexpensive, and the infrastructure often makes it more reliable than electricity in bad weather conditions. While most people do not use natural gas for all their electrical needs, many have generators that rely on it and can supply emergency power when there are interruptions to electric service.
Dangers of Natural Gas
Natural gas requires careful installation of all appliances in the home. Plumbers generally install gas lines and hook up gas utilities, checking to ensure no leaks. The threat of leaks is so severe that when people suspect one, they should cut off gas to their entire home and have the utility company come out immediately.
Sometimes, leaks happen in the lines carrying natural gas to homes and businesses. Unfortunately, any break in the infrastructure increases the risk of explosions and fires. These leaks are often the result of a lack of maintenance. However, they may be due to an individual in Auburn puncturing the gas line, warranting third-party liability for damages.
Injuries From Gas Line Accidents
These types of incidents commonly lead to varying degrees of burns. First-degree burns are superficial and only affect the outermost layer of the skin. These can result in pain, redness, and dryness and require minimal medical attention.
Second-degree burns affect the first and second layers of the skin and can cause swelling and blistering. Depending on their severity, they can sometimes cause scarring.
Third-degree burns harm the deep layers of the skin and can lead to white, blackened, brown, or charred burned skin. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require skin grafts and other forms of serious medical attention.
Strict Liability for Natural Gas Transporters
Maine Revised Statutes Annotated Title 14 § 165 provides that those who store or transport natural gas have strict liability for injuries resulting from the transportation or storage. They are responsible for all acts and omissions by their agents, even if the agent did not behave negligently. However, they are not liable if other parties in Auburn, such as a homeowner, cause the gas line to puncture.
Speak With an Auburn Attorney About Punctured Gas Line Liability
If you have been injured because of a punctured gas line, it is essential to identify the at-fault party. If that individual is an agent or employee of the gas company, then the utility will be responsible. If not, the utility company may have no liability for the claim.
Determining punctured gas line liability in Auburn is challenging to do on your own. A determined personal injury attorney can work with investigators to obtain additional information about the accident and help you understand your remedies. Schedule an initial consultation with Gideon Asen, LLC to learn more.
