A Gas Explosion in New Jersey Levels a Home and Damages Several Others
There was an incredibly dangerous accident that occurred in Ocean County, New Jersey, at the end of last month. An entire home exploded due to a gas leak, damaging nearby homes, and sending a shockwave that could be felt up to a mile away.
NBC Philadelphia reports that authorities were alerted to the smell of gas in the neighborhood at around 9 o’clock in the morning. After being alerted, the authorities and the gas company were combing the neighborhood, attempting to identify the source of the leak. Thankfully, they had the wherewithal to evacuate the immediate area after confirming that there was in fact a gas leak. Unfortunately, the source of the leak was not detected in time, and an entire home exploded about an hour and a half after authorities arrived on the scene.
Residents in nearby homes reported that their windows were blown out. One neighbor, as of last report, had also yet to return to her home following the accident, fearing that the structural integrity of her home had been completely compromised. As for the house that experienced the explosion, it is completely gone, its remains having been scattered into the yards of homes nearby.
In addition to property damage, several gas workers and firemen were injured due to the home explosion. While most of the injuries sustained were relatively minor, two gas workers were critically injured and had to be medevac’d from the scene. Fortunately, no one lost his or her life as a result of this tragic accident.
What Caused the Gas Explosion?
Per NBC Philadelphia, determining the cause of the explosion took some time. However, the investigation eventually revealed that a small crack in a gas line underneath the neighborhood was to blame. Gas had been allowed to leak through this crack, where it then travelled along a water line into the basement of the home that exploded. Authorities believe that this gas was then allowed to accumulate unnoticed overnight, until it reached a critical mass and then exploded due to the number of appliances within the basement.
What Lessons Can Be Learned From This Accident?
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is how important it is to be cautious around gas. If you’re ever in your home or in an area where you smell gas, then it’s important to notify the authorities immediately. Often, it can be very difficult to determine where a gas leak is coming from, and this fact contributes a great deal to accidents that may result from a gas leak. Especially as we move into the spring and summer months, it’s also a good idea to check any gas-related appliances you may have. Ensuring that everything is in safe working order will reduce the chances of your home experiencing a similar accident.
Given the nature of this case, though, it’s important to note that not all gas-related accidents can be prevented. What transpired in Ocean County, New Jersey, was due directly to a crack in a pipe that was own by the gas company. In a case like this, it’s important for homeowners to know that they may have legal recourse to recover damages caused by the negligence of the gas company. This company’s inability to ensure that its equipment was in proper working order put residents, first responders, and its own workers in harms way.
If you ever find yourself in a situation similar to the one outline above, remember that Heavens Law is here to serve you. We have a tremendous amount of experience handling cases of this nature, and can help you and your loved ones to recover the compensation that is due to you following a similar accident.
Sources:
