Burn Injury Lawyer for Unlawful Fireworks
Fireworks are quite the spectacle. We love them for their beauty and their ability to underscore the importance of a particular event, whether it is a national holiday or a private affair. But there is a reason why certain types are illegal to use at home. Unlawful use of fireworks can cause serious injuries and property damage. Read our article to learn more about which types of fireworks are illegal in the state of Colorado and when to contact a burn injury lawyer if you are in an accident.
What Types of Fireworks Are Illegal in Colorado?
By their incendiary nature, all fireworks carry a risk of burns. Even seemingly innocuous varieties, like sparklers or snakes, have the potential to cause harm. For this reason, many counties in Colorado have banned the use of any and all fireworks at home. In general, however, it is illegal to use any firework that explodes or is designed to leave the ground. Examples of illegal fireworks in Colorado include:
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Lady Fingers
- Mortars
Double check your county’s regulations regarding the use of fireworks. Again, many counties (including Golden, Boulder, Northglenn, Lakewood, and Littleton) do not allow the use of fireworks at all. Other counties may permit the use of sparklers and other fireworks that do not leave the ground.
When to Hire a Burn Injury Attorney for a Fireworks Accident
Burns can be extremely painful and disfiguring. If you were in an accident caused by the illegal use of fireworks, you should contact a burn injury lawyer to help you seek compensation for your injuries. Even if you were voluntarily in attendance at an event that involved illegal fireworks use, your injuries are not your fault. Ultimately, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure invited guests are safe on his or her property.
That being said, homeowner’s insurance is unlikely to cover damages resulting from illegal activities, like setting off fireworks. This is another reason why you will need to hire an experienced attorney, since you will be seeking compensation outside the realm of insurance.
What Damages Can A Burn Injury Lawyer Help You Claim?
Burn injuries fall under the general category of personal injury. This means your attorney can help you claim both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include:
- Medical bills
- Loss of income (past and future)
- Mental healthcare
- Rehabilitation
Non-economic damages are those that are less tangible but still have a significant impact on a victim’s quality of life. These include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Permanent disfigurement
As with all personal injury cases, you will have two years from the date of the accident to pursue legal action.
Preventing Burn Injuries from Fireworks
Again, even legal fireworks pose a burn risk. You can take certain steps to reduce the chance of injury or starting a fire:
- Use a long-necked lighter to avoid lighter burns and put more distance between yourself and the firework’s fuse
- Keep a bucket of water nearby. Put spent fireworks and any that didn’t go off into the water.
- When lighting ground-type fireworks, always wear safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves.
- Place ground fireworks on a non-flammable surface that is covered with water.
- Do not permit children to light or use fireworks.
- Never light fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Contact a Burn Injury Lawyer in Denver
Burn injuries can be especially painful and often require extensive long-term medical care. If you or a loved one was burned due to the reckless use of illegal fireworks, contact Dave Roth with the Roth Group. Dave is a highly experienced personal injury attorney who understands the emotional toll these accidents can take. Let Dave help you seek just compensation while you focus on your family and recovering from your injuries. Call or go online today to schedule a free consultation.