With the Fourth of July just around the corner, the allure of fireworks becomes irresistible for many Americans. While the use of fireworks is prohibited within the city limits of Camden, Ouachita County at large has no such ordinance, allowing residents to partake in this popular pastime. However, the National Safety Council strongly advises against the use of any fireworks at home, stressing that even legal fireworks pose significant risks. They recommend enjoying fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals, as these are much safer for everyone involved.
A 2023 report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlighted the dangers associated with fireworks, noting eight deaths and an estimated 9,700 injuries involving fireworks in that year alone. The report detailed that five of these deaths were linked to the misuse of fireworks, two to device malfunctions, and one to unknown circumstances. Despite a steady decline in recent years since the peak in 2020 during the pandemic, injuries from fireworks have generally increased over the last fifteen years.
“While it is a great American tradition to enjoy fireworks around the 4th of July, it is important to remember that all fireworks, even sparklers, pose dangers to consumers,” said CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric. He emphasized that the safest way to view fireworks is at professional displays and advised those who choose to light their own to only buy legal fireworks intended for consumer use from reputable retailers.
The Impact of Fireworks-Related Injuries
Fireworks can cause a variety of injuries, many of which require emergency medical attention. According to a CPSC analysis conducted in the four weeks surrounding the Fourth of July in 2023, teenagers aged 15 to 19 had the highest rate of fireworks-related injuries treated in emergency departments, followed by children aged 5 to 9. The most commonly injured body parts were the hands and fingers (35 percent of injuries), along with the head, face, and ears (22 percent). Burns accounted for about 42 percent of all emergency department-treated fireworks injuries.
Specific types of fireworks also carry unique risks. For example, firecrackers were associated with approximately 800 injuries, and sparklers accounted for around 700 injuries. These figures underscore the importance of handling even seemingly benign fireworks with extreme caution.
Legal Recourse for Serious, Fireworks-Related Injuries
Victims of fireworks-related injuries have the right to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. Such legal action can hold manufacturers accountable for defective products and negligent practices. The process typically begins with gathering evidence, including medical records, photographs of the injuries, and any documentation related to the purchase and use of the fireworks.
The lawsuit process involves several key steps, beginning with filing a complaint in court. The discovery phase follows, during which both parties exchange information and gather further evidence to build their case. Settlement negotiations may take place at any point during this process, but if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial. An attorney with experience in product liability cases can guide victims through each step, ensuring their rights are protected and maximizing their chances of receiving fair compensation.
Navigating the complexities of a product liability lawsuit without professional assistance can be daunting. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable support, from collecting and presenting evidence to negotiating with insurers and representing clients in court. Legal representation is crucial in ensuring that victims receive adequate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
