Fire & Explosion

Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow’s outstanding reputation in explosion cases is built on a solid record of success. The law firm has extensive experience obtaining compensation for catastrophic losses, such as those associated with fires, blasting, and explosions. A primary reason for our success is that MBBB has the resources to investigate, negotiate, and litigate even the most complex legal cases. MBBB’s trial attorneys have helped clients in a wide range of fire, explosion, and blasting cases, including cases involving:

Home gas explosions including the tragic gas explosions in Massachusetts’ Merrimack Valley that impacted tens of thousands of residents and businesses
Factory explosions that cause loss of life, injuries, and property damage in the surrounding community
Equipment failures in defective or negligently installed appliances and other products causing explosions
Poorly stored combustible materials that cause explosions and/or chemical fires
Out-of-code, improperly placed electrical wiring that causes electrocutions, severe electrical burns, or electrical fires
Tire explosions that cause motor vehicle accidents
Bucket truck (cherry picker) accidents caused by hazardous grounding
Tunnel or other excavation blasting accidents that injure or kill people in surrounding areas

Many victims and their families seek not only financial compensation but also a change in the policies, procedures, or harmful products that caused the accident. For clients who have this dual purpose in mind, attorneys at MBBB will work with you to obtain full compensation for the wrongful death and personal injuries, and to help make the world safer.

Significant Cases

Incinerator Burn

A $3.5 million dollar settlement was reached for a 51-year-old worker who suffered severe burns on over 60% of his body while working as an independent contractor to clean out a chamber inside an industrial incinerator that was owned and operated by the Defendant. The incinerator had been shut down for cooling for only three days prior to Plaintiff’s entry, and he was permitted entry wearing a full-body plastic Tyvek suit, which was not flame resistant, and which melted to his skin when burning hot ash material erupted from the wall and engulfed plaintiff.

Home Gas Explosion

$3.6 million settlement achieved on behalf of the family of a woman killed from a gas explosion in her home due to a gas main leak. The gas company failed to inspect, monitor and maintain its gas main and acted with gross disregard for the safety of local residents and their property.

Columbia Gas Explosions

$143 million Settlement Fund created for the residents and businesses of the Merrimack Valley impacted by the September 13, 2018 gas explosions caused by Columbia Gas. Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow, as Plaintiffs’ Liaison Counsel, helped achieve this historic settlement and further assisted with the claims process to ensure distribution of the funds to those harmed.

Failure to Have Fire Escape

Over $4 million judgment in a jury trial arising out of injuries sustained when the plaintiffs were forced to jump from the fifth floor of a burning apartment building. Evidence presented to the jury demonstrated that there was only one doorway leading from the apartment and no fire escapes or fire balconies on the exterior of the building.

1.3 million fires in 2021 resulted in 3,800 civilian deaths and 14,700 injuries, as well as 70 on-duty firefighter deaths.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes gas explosions?

The most common cause of gas explosions, whether propane or natural gas, is leakage of flammable gas due to the improper installation or maintenance of gas appliances or gas piping, resulting in a buildup of flammable mixtures in enclosed spaces.

Leaking gas can ignite if it comes into contact with an ignition source such as a pilot light, stove top burner, or even static electricity. When the gas builds up and mixes with the appropriate amount of oxygen, it becomes a dangerously
flammable mixture, which upon ignition can create a large explosion.

In all cases, it is important to ensure that all gas piping and equipment is properly installed and maintained to minimize the risk of a gas explosion.

What should I do if I smell gas?

If you smell gas in your home, leave the area immediately.

To avoid causing an explosion:

DO NOT use any electrical switches, appliances, or open flames.
DO NOT start cars near the area of the gas smell.
DO NOT return to the area until emergency responders or the gas company tell you it’s safe.

Once you are at a safe distance:

Call emergency services.
Contact your gas company’s emergency hotline.
Seek medical attention for anyone experiencing symptoms like nausea ordizziness.

What can I do to prevent a gas explosion?

The best way to prevent a gas explosion is by having your gas appliances inspected and maintained regularly. Any repairs or replacements should be performed by a qualified professional familiar with gas safety regulations.

Additionally, regular inspection and testing of your home’s ventilation system is important to make sure that any flammable gases are properly vented outside. Finally, you should always follow manufacturer’s instructions for the operation and maintenance of any gas appliances. By taking these steps, you can help to minimize the risk of a gas explosion in your home.

What should I do if I am injured in a gas explosion?

If you have been injured in a gas explosion, seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to the local police. If possible, document the incident with information like the time and place of the explosion, names of witnesses, property damage, photographs or video footage. You should also contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as you can to discuss your legal options and rights as a victim of a gas explosion.

What are the legal implications of a gas explosion?

Gas explosions can have serious legal implications, since they often result in significant property damage and personal injury. Depending on the circumstances, victims may be able to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages through a personal injury claim.

In some cases, the responsible party may be liable for punitive damages if it was found to have acted in a grossly negligent manner. It is important to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer to understand your legal rights and options in the event of a gas explosion.

Who is responsible for gas explosions?

In the event of a gas explosion, responsibility generally falls on whoever was responsible for maintaining and operating the gas equipment. This could include property owners, or those responsible for installing, inspecting, or maintaining the equipment. Additionally, manufacturers or suppliers may also be held liable for damages resulting from a gas explosion. Depending on the circumstances, victims may be able to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages through a personal injury claim.

What injuries can you get from a gas explosion?

Gas explosions can be fatal, or can cause serious and life-threatening injuries, including burns, traumatic brain injury, internal organ damage, respiratory failure, and broken bones. Victims of gas explosions may also suffer from hearing or vision loss due to the blast and long-term psychological trauma. Additionally, some victims may experience secondary medical conditions such as infection due to burn wounds.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a gas explosion, it is important to seek immediate medical attention and then consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you to ensure that you are fully compensated for any injuries or losses resulting from the explosion.

Client Testimonials

I recently had the opportunity to work with Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow, PC, and I must say it was a wonderful experience. From the moment I reached out to them, they were attentive, understanding, and empathetic. Dealing with a personal injury can be stressful and overwhelming. They took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly explain the legal process. I would highly recommend them. — Lisa M.

I was in a car accident where I had sustained physical damage to both myself and my vehicle. Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow law firm was fantastic in helping navigate compensation for the damages I sustained. The law firm did a great job communicating with me throughout the entire process and was able to negotiate the best result financially. I would highly recommend this law firm to represent you. — Todd D.

My wife and I were in an accident while riding our motorcycle. The accident was clearly the fault of the other operator. We had never hired a lawyer to represent us in a civil action before, and I wasn't even sure we needed one. But the other party's insurance company was being unreasonable, so we decided to hire a lawyer. We have a friend that works at MBBB, and they gave us a strong recommendation, so we had an initial discussion to learn the process. MBBB put Jeremy Carroll and Catherine Croteau on our case, and we could not have been happier with the process and the way things turned out. In addition to being experts at their jobs, both Jeremy and Catherine are kind, empathetic people who held our hands throughout the process. As a settlement was being negotiated and we became impatient, Jeremy talked us off the ledge a few times and asked us to trust in his experience. I'm glad we did, because I believe he maximized our settlement. In addition to being great at what they do and being extremely professional, Jeremy and Catherine are super nice people. I hope we never need it, but if we ever need representation again, we will be calling them!

Jeremy Carroll took on our case for a car accident. Barbara and him were wonderful. Very attentive and professional every step of the way. I would highly recommend his services anytime! — Heatherly D.

Great Law Firm. Their paralegal, Nora, is so professional and very accurate, and gets back to you regarding any questions that you may have. Also, one of the attorneys, Peter, is nothing but professional and again is willing to answer any questions that you may have regarding any legal matters. THIS IS A 5 STAR FIRM AND ALL EMPLOYEES ARE VERY COMPETENT. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!! — Christine S.

I can't thank Meehan, Boyle, Black, and Bogdanow law firm enough for everything they did for my family during a really tough time. After a horrific auto accident that left our daughter with permanent physical and emotional damages, MBBB was there for us every step of the way. Not only did they offer expert legal advice, but they also showed genuine care and understanding. They made sure we were always informed, patiently answering all our questions and guiding us through the process, which made such a challenging situation so much easier to handle.

If you’re looking for a law firm that combines professionalism with true compassion, I highly recommend MBBB. Our amazing team—led by the incredible Jennifer, with exceptional support from Catherine and the expertise of Leo—really went above and beyond. We’re so grateful for everything they did for us.

Jenn and Catherine are two of the best at their job. Three words I would use to describe them are honorable, empathetic, and unwavering. The transparency of communication with them was unparalleled, and any single question I had was answered thoroughly and understandable. I would recommend the professionalism of Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow, P.C to anyone who finds themselves seeking justice in an unfortunate situation. After interviewing multiple law firms in the Boston area, I found that most firms just look at you as numbers on a spreadsheet. They lack humility, and don't realize that you are suffering in real time, not just on paper. This firm is the polar opposite, in that it is made of real people, with real understanding of what you are going through, and will do what it takes to make you feel some sense of closure. Thank you Jenn. Thank you Catherine. Thank you Meehan, Boyle et al. — Alex C.

Attorney Jeremy and Barbara from his team have been so amazing to me and my family. We had a family death and Jeremy has been so professional, so patient, and so thorough every single step of the way. It has been truly one of the toughest years of our lives so far. Having Jeremy and his team's support during the whole process with court, etc. has been SO helpful. Also, what made it special is I didn't feel like I was JUST ANOTHER person, he really cares and really wanted the best for us — he knew what we were going through. THIS IS what you need on your side when you need a lawyer. Absolutely recommend him! — F.J.

Leo Boyle and John Carroll were tireless advocates for my family and I in the wake of a devastating severe traumatic brain injury I suffered in 2009. In the months and years after my injury, while the case was pending and long after, Leo and John took a personal interest in our case, continuously advocating for our safety and mental health. They displayed great intellect, as well as dedication and patience, in developing a compelling case and securing a much-needed settlement from the defendants. While it did not reverse the harm done, it provided us with the support, closure, and financial freedom we needed to move forward. — Leslie B.

Working with Jeremy Carroll has been a great experience in managing my auto accident case. He listens, he is knowledgeable, experienced, and personable. He was able to achieve and negotiate a fair settlement. I would absolutely recommend hiring Jeremy! — Elisabeth W.

I had a very positive experience while working with Jeremy Carroll, Peter Ainsworth, and Nora Carroll at Meehan, Boyle, Black and Bogdanow law firm. All three of them treated me with respect and dignity every time we spoke on the phone or had a zoom call and I was always kept abreast with emails. I never needed to speak to any insurance company; it was all taken care of. I was never rushed nor swayed, the decision was always mine to make and my opinion was continually asked. Every aspect was handled with professionalism. I highly recommend this law office to represent you for all of your personal injuries! — Sara W.

For years I was dealing with a severe personal injury case. After being represented by four different attorneys, I finally found Meehan, Boyle, Black, and Bogdanow. I interviewed several so-called top firms and spoke to the big largest firms. Unfortunately, none of them understood the case's complexity or had a strategy to navigate successfully. I first spoke to Peter Ainsworth. He listened and showed genuine compassion and care for my situation. Peter then introduced me to the All-Star team of Jeremy Carroll and, Jennifer Denker, Nora Carroll, and then the real work began. Nora Carroll, a superstar who catalogued volumes of evidence from my previous attorneys, and coordinated obtaining additional information in an extensive medical file. Jeremy Carroll was the lead on my case and primary contact. He was invested, knowledgeable, analytical, and extraordinarily thorough. From the review stage to strategy and execution, he was exemplary. With compassion and intensity, this team of true professionals pursued my best interest. Then, when I didn't think it could get better, they added the experience and long-held wisdom of Leo Boyle. Being represented by Meehan, Boyle, Black, and Bogdanow meant the biggest disaster that happened in my life was finally resolved. I am extremely pleased with the negotiated settlement. Their efforts will make a big difference in being able to care for myself and my family. — Tyioun K.

I had a such a pleasant experience working with my attorney, Peter Ainsworth, and his paralegal Barbara. They are reliable, trustworthy, loving, and so caring. If you are looking for an attorney that cares about you, this is the place to go!!!! — Gabriela R.