Fireworks are ubiquitous on the Fourth of July. However, these bright and festive bursts of sound, light and color are regularly used during major celebrations, concerts and festivals throughout the year. Perhaps because fireworks are so common in American life, individuals do not always treat them with the caution and respect that they deserve. When individuals are reckless with fireworks, severe injuries can result.

However, even the most conscientious individual can be harmed by fireworks when they prove to be dangerous or defective products. Like all other consumer goods, fireworks can be improperly manufactured, packaged or otherwise affected by defects or certain dangers. In this case, it may be the manufacturer or fireworks seller who should be held accountable for an individual’s injury rather than the injured person him or herself.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 8,700 Americans required emergency medical care for fireworks-related injuries in 2012 alone. In addition, several Americans died last year as a result of fireworks-related injuries.

It may surprise many Americans to learn that the CPSC has determined that most fireworks-related injuries requiring emergency medical attention result from malfunctioning fireworks. It is most often some defect in the product itself and not negligence on the part of the fireworks user that leads to injury.

Negligent fireworks manufacturers may be held accountable for harm caused to consumers. If you were harmed in a fireworks-related accident this past Independence Day weekend or at any other point in the recent past, please contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate your legal options.

Source: Patch, “Firecrackers, Aerials, Homemade Explosives Cause Most Injuries, CPSC Says,” Brittany Tressler, July 6, 2013