Plenty of Bangor residents depend on natural gas for cost-effective and clean energy. It is most commonly used to heat homes by fueling furnaces, gas grills, ovens, water heaters, and stoves. People also use natural gas to run generators, which offer a dependable backup during harsh weather conditions.
While natural gas is an excellent power source, it has one huge drawback—its flammability and potential for explosion. Even a tiny amount of gas combined with a spark can trigger a minor explosion, leading to a significant fire.
If a gas line is punctured, the risk is even more significant. The resulting natural gas leak can lead to pockets of gas, increasing the risk of fire or explosion.
You may wonder who is responsible for the damages when you have been injured in this type of accident. In some instances, the utility company might be liable. However, punctured gas line liability in Bangor depends on who caused the incident. An experienced utility attorney can investigate an incident and determine who is at fault. Schedule an initial consultation today to learn more.
Natural Gas Explosions and Fires
Natural gas is a great energy source when correctly installed, maintained, and safeguarded. It is cleaner than some fuels and reasonably affordable, meeting two of consumers’ primary goals.
Because natural gas is flammable, consumers must carefully install household appliances that use it. Generally, this is a job for professionals, specifically plumbers, who handle the installation of gas lines and connections and ensure there are no leaks. If someone suspects a leak, they should shut off the gas to their home and have the utility company inspect it.
Occasionally, leaks occur in the pipelines transporting natural gas to homes and businesses. Damage in Bangor can sometimes be caused by poor maintenance, but it may also result from accidentally puncturing the line. In such cases, the individual responsible may be liable for damages as a third party.
Is There Strict Liability for Natural Gas Transporters?
Although a third party may be held liable, that may not be enough to compensate people for their losses. Natural gas explosions are typically devastating and can exceed the limits of homeowner’s insurance coverage. Depending on third parties for compensation may leave injured parties without adequate remedies for their damages.
Maine Revised Statutes Annotated tit. 14 § 165 establishes strict liability for individuals or entities that store or transport natural gas for any injuries caused during its transportation or storage. They are held responsible for all actions or inactions by their agents, even if the agent was not negligent. However, they are not liable if another party causes the gas line puncture. A Bangor lawyer can explain punctured gas liability in more detail during an initial meeting.
Learn More About Punctured Gas Line Liability From a Bangor Attorney
If you have been injured by a punctured gas line, it is crucial to determine who is responsible. In Bangor, liability for a punctured gas line rests with the party who damaged the line, which may or may not be the utility company.
Individuals are unlikely to know who caused a gas line explosion or puncture. Because of this, investigations will be necessary to uncover that information. A determined personal injury attorney from Gideon Asen, LLC can collaborate with investigators to gather details about the incident and assist you in understanding your legal options. Call our law office today to find out more.
