Fourth of July Fireworks Could Be to Blame for Brooksville Mobile Home Fire | Hernando County Injury Attorneys Whittel & Melton

July 6, 2020

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) issued a report in June 2020 regarding fireworks-related fires. Their findings show that in 2018, 19,500 fires were started by fireworks, resulting in 5 deaths, 46 injuries, and $105 million in property damage.

On that same note, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently released its Fireworks Annual Report that shows 10,000 people were hospitalized last year due to fireworks-related injuries. Their reports show that over a third of the injury victims in 2019 were young children. Twelve deaths were reported from fireworks in that same year.

And while fireworks were made legal this year on three holidays: Fourth of July, New Year’s Day and New Year’s Eve, most people fail to think about property damage and injuries over holiday weekends. While fireworks are associated with fun and celebration, most people fail to think about their potential to cause devastating injuries, burns, fires, and even death. Something as simple as lighting off a bottle rocket or Roman candle could easily lead to a house fire, and not just your own home, but a neighbor’s house as well. It is important to remember that these situations can be avoided by erring on the side of caution.

Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may have you covered if a house fire is accidentally started by legal fireworks. However, if you are using illegal fireworks, you can expect your claim to be denied. Using illegal fireworks could place you on the line personally for any damage that results. One mistake with an illegal cherry bomb, M-80, M-100, or silver salute could mean you are now solely on the hook for rebuilding your home and replacing all of your belongings.

You may be wondering what would happen if your home caught fire due to someone else’s illegal fireworks or firecrackers. In instances like these, your homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance should cover these claims. It is always a good idea to double check your insurance policy and contact your insurance provider to make sure you understand all of your coverages.

Our Hernando County Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton are here to help if you were injured or suffered property damage following a Fourth of July mishap. We serve Spring Hill, Brooksville, and everywhere in between. We know that fireworks-related accidents can be absolutely devastating. We are here for you 24/7 to answer any questions you have about obtaining compensation for acts of negligence. A consultation to discuss your potential claim with us is completely free, so we urge you to contact us today to get started receiving the legal help you need.